Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.1.

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

The last one of this long procession (1)_________________silent men and women was a little wizened old man. Even he (2)_________________ a load of two baskets, slung on a pole on his shoulder. (3)_________________ he kept a folded quilt and a cauldron. In the other basket, there seemed to be a quilt, (4)_________________ ragged and patched, but still clean. There was no one with (5)_________________.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. of.
Context: The sentence is describing “the last one of this long procession,” meaning the old man is the final person belonging to or part of the procession. The correct preposition shows belonging.
Meaning of the words:
In: means inside or within something.
To: indicates direction or recipient.
For: indicates purpose or benefit.
Of: indicates belonging or part of a group.
Correct word: Of
Reason: “Last one of this long procession” correctly expresses that he is the final person in the group. Other options do not convey the sense of belonging or being part of the procession.
Final Sentence: The last one of this long procession of silent men and women was a little wizened old man.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 5