After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations of all or part of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation you consider most appropriate for each sentence.

31.The job seekers were told to keep their fingers crossed. This means the job seekers were to

A. revise their notes thoroughly.

B. crosscheck their documents.

C. receive further instructions.

D. hope for the best.

32.In spite of severe criticism, he stood his ground. This means that he

A. remained on the grounds.

B. reasoned sensibly.

C. made remarkable progress.

D. remained firm.

33.When I appeared before the interview panel, I had my heart in my mouth. This means that I

A. was more than ready.

B. was very anxious.

C. lost my voice completely.

D. felt quite indifferent.

34.Policies are formulated by those at the helm of affairs. This means that policies are made by those

A. with the know-how.

B. in authority.

C. in favour of affairs only.

D. who are present at the time.

35.They were asked to obey the instruction to the letter. This means that they were to obey the instruction

A. according to the letters.

B. as and when requested.

C. in every detail.

D. only in part.

36.The contestants spent precious time splitting hairs over matters. This means that the contestants

A. were arguing over unimportant issues.

B. tried to dye their hair in disguise.

C. caused serious alarm about events.

D. preferred only superior products.

37.The monetary reward came to him as a windfall. This means that the reward was

A. an added advantage.

B. adequate compensation.

C. well earned.

D. an unexpected fortune

38.The smugglers hid themselves until the coast was clear. This means that the smugglers hid

A. for the time being.

B. until the danger was over.

C. until investigation was over.

D. to seek protection at the coast.

39.The law-breakers will be made to face the music. This means that they will be

A. brought before the law.

B. deprived of all music.

C. reconsidered on appeal.

D. arrested and relocated.

40.Although prudent measures were put in place to salvage the economy, it still remained in the doldrums. This means that the economy

A. lacked clear direction.

B. performed beyond expectation.

C. depended on the importation of drums.

D. lacked any improvement.