238 Answer Key
Exercise 6.1The Car I’ve Always Wanted
My old car needed a paint job and had bad brakes. It was time to buy a newer
car, something more modern and up-to-date. I went to the largest dealership
on Main Street and received help from one of the salesmen. He showed me all
the latest models. But everything was so expensive.
Finally I saw a dark blue convertible on the far end of the lot. It was a two-
year-old Chevy, and it was in great condition. The price was right, so the sales-
man drew up the papers, I gladly signed, and a half hour later I drove off the
lot in my “almost new” Chevy.
But getting this car hasn’t been the best idea. My brother always wants to
borrow it. My girlfriend always wants to drive it. And I only get to use it when
I go to work and when the car needs gas.Exercise 6.2Death Came for a Visit
My great-grandfather was ninety-two years old and suffering from a long ill-
ness. We knew he would pass away soon, but that’s not easy even if someone is
old. His last wish was to have the entire family with him at the end. So on a cold
day that seemed designed for our impending loss, we gathered at his bedside.
Aunt Louise, who was Great-grandfather’s youngest sister, sat next to him.
She said quiet, comforting words to him, but I doubt he heard her. Then some-
thing that no one had expected happened. Great-grandfather opened his eyes
and seemed to look around.
“It’s time,” he said quietly. Then he shut his eyes and slipped into his eter-
nal sleep.
Although I felt a certain sadness, I was relieved to know that he was finally
released from his illness. Death isn’t easy, but it’s something we all must endure.Exercise 6.3The Most Unforgettable Day
The most amazing thing happened one day when I was at the beach. I have often
spent time at the seashore, but this time it was something special. I was enjoy-
ing myself, watching the waves and the surf, when I found a bottle in the sand.
I have never gone looking for treasure, but the bottle was the vehicle that sent
me on such a course.
The bottle itself was nothing special: it was small and made of brown glass.
But inside was a note with just a few words: “Look beneath the cliffs.” Because
of those four simple words, I began a quest that went on for two weeks.