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

Comprehension:
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 beginning of the story is (1)______ in its presentation but (2)______ the style eases out and becomes haunting in its simplicity.
The author brings out the human elements in his story. This common element of sympathy and sacrifice is given a new (3)_____ by
the old artist who shows by his last desperate act that one can be a hero for one day if only one cares (4). O Henry’s treatment
of his material is balanced and controlled, a fine (5) of humour and pathos.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1 in the given passage: