Select the correct alternative from the given options that correctly changes the form of narration in the given sentence.
The solicitor said, “Let us solve the dispute over the land.”
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3, i.e.:“The solicitor suggested that they should solve the dispute over the land.”
The original direct speech:
“Let us solve the dispute over the land.”
This is a suggestion. When converting such sentences into indirect speech:
The introductory “let us” is reported using “suggested that we/they should…”
The reporting verb remains in the past tense (“suggested”), and we introduce the clause with “that” plus “should.”
This structure aligns with guidance on how to convert suggestions expressed with 'let us' into indirect speech.
Let’s review the options:
“…suggested that they might solve…” – uses “might,” which is less direct than “should.”
“…ordered that we should solve…” – incorrect, as “ordered” is for commands, not suggestions.
(Correct) “…suggested that they should solve…”
“…wished that they should solve…” – uses “wished,” which changes the meaning and is not appropriate for suggestions.