Which is the best comparison of the tone in these passages? While the first passage has a dark, horrifying tone, the tone of the second is much lighter
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The complete question is:

1). Everywhere was a shadow of death. The farmers spoke of much illness among their families. In the town, the doctors had become more and more puzzled by new kinds of sickness appearing among their patients. There had been several sudden and unexplained deaths, not only among adults but even among children, who would be stricken suddenly while at play and die within a few hours.  

2). No doubt these trees would make good lumber after passing through a sawmill, as George Washington after passing through the hands of a French cook would have made good food. But both for Washington and the tree that bears his name higher uses have been found.  Could one of these Sequoia-Kings come to town in all its godlike majesty so as to be strikingly seen and allowed to plead its own cause, there would never again be any lack of defenders.

Which is the best comparison of the tone in these passages?

a). Both passages have a dark, frightening tone.

b). Both passages have a somber tone, but the second is more somber.

c). While the first passage has a dark, horrifying tone, the tone of the second is much lighter.

d). While the first passage has a negative tone, the second has an even more negative tone.

c). While the first passage has a dark, horrifying tone, the tone of the second is much lighter.

Explanation:

As per the question, the second option most adequately establishes a comparison of the tone between the two passages. In the first passage, the descriptions regarding 'shadow of death,' 'illness,' 'puzzled sickness,' etc. display a tragic and petrifying tone that the author aims to be perceived by the readers and evoke a sympathetic response towards the situation. While in the second passage, the tone is comparatively much bright and light as it includes details of comparison between George Washington and Sequoia trees and the investigation about the 'high use' of their names and majesty. Hence, option c correctly compares the author's distinct approaches in the two passages.

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