Given below are six sentences taken from a paragraph. The first and the last sentences are numbered S1 and S2 and are placed in the first and last positions respectively and are fixed in their positions. The other four sentences between the first and last sentences are jumbled up and are numbered A, B, C, and D. Rearrange the jumbled sentences in a logical sequence keeping the unity and coherence of the paragraph intact. Choose the correct alternative that best describes the sequence.
S1. Jovinian, however, having quitted the water, sought in every possible direction for his horse and clothes and, to his utter astonishment, could find neither.
A. "Miserable man that I am," said he, "to what a strait am I reduced!
B. I will then ride on to the palace and strictly investigate the cause of this extraordinary conduct.
C. There is, I remember, a knight who lives close by; I will go to him and command his attendance and service.
D. Vexed beyond measure at the circumstance (for he was completely naked and saw no one near to assist him), he began to reflect upon what course he should pursue.
S2. Some shall smart for it."
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
S1 (Fixed): Jovinian, however, having quitted the water, sought in every possible direction for his horse and clothes and, to his utter astonishment, could find neither.
Context: Jovinian is out of the water, can't find his things, and is in shock.
Sentence D: Vexed beyond measure at the circumstance (for he was completely naked and saw no one near to assist him), he began to reflect upon what course he should pursue.
Connection: This naturally follows S1 by describing his reaction ("vexed") and the immediate problem (he is naked and alone). It sets up his decision-making process ("reflect upon what course he should pursue").
Sentence A: "Miserable man that I am," said he, "to what a strait am I reduced!"
Connection: This is his first verbal expression of his "reflections" mentioned in D. He acknowledges his dire situation.
Sentence C: There is, I remember, a knight who lives close by; I will go to him and command his attendance and service.
Connection: Now that he has lamented his situation (A), he comes up with a specific plan to solve it—visiting a nearby knight.
Sentence B: I will then ride on to the palace and strictly investigate the cause of this extraordinary conduct.
Connection: This is the next step after getting help from the knight. The word "then" confirms it follows the previous action in C.
S2 (Fixed): Some shall smart for it.
Context: A final statement of vengeance or consequence for those responsible for his plight.
The correct sequence is DACB.