Choose the meaning of the bold word. Failing that, I could have surreptitiously dumped the whole outfit overboard, written off the forty or so dollars as love’s tribute. (“The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant") (1 point) Responses happily happily slyly slyly enthusiastically enthusiastically sorrowfully
slyly
To determine the meaning of the bold word, you will need to understand the context of the sentence.
In the given sentence, the speaker is discussing an alternative action or decision. They mention that if their initial plan fails or doesn't work, they could resort to a different course of action. The phrase "Failing that" suggests that if the first plan doesn't succeed, they will consider an alternative.
Now let's look at the options provided:
1. happily: This option doesn't fit the context because the speaker is discussing a potential disappointment or failure, and "happily" doesn't convey that sentiment.
2. slyly: This option fits the context. The speaker is considering disposing of something secretly or in a sneaky manner if their original plan doesn't work.
3. enthusiastically: This option doesn't fit the context because the speaker is discussing a potential failure or disappointment, and "enthusiastically" doesn't convey that sentiment.
4. sorrowfully: This option also doesn't fit the context. While the speaker may wistfully write off the money, they don't express sorrow or sadness in regard to their alternative plan.
Therefore, the correct answer is "slyly."