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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to the novel, why does the black powder in the "sweet" rifle remain explosive after hundreds of years?
(a) It was a modern type of powder
(b) The rifle's small caliber preserved the powder
(c) It was wrapped in a linen cartridge
(d) Grease used in loading formed an airtight seal

2. How quickly does Richard Allen Mesinger die after being shot?
(a) About five minutes
(b) After a few hours
(c) A few minutes after arriving at the hospital
(d) He dies instantly

3. How does Richard Allen Mesinger die?
(a) He is hanged by the British as a traitor
(b) Dysentery kills him
(c) He dies of stomach cancer
(d) He is shot in the head

4. What happens to black powder if it is exposed to the air for a long period of time?
(a) It is ruined
(b) It explodes
(c) It turns a greyish white
(d) It gets much stronger

5. When Richard Allen Mesington is seven years old his family moves to what state?
(a) Alabama
(b) Missouri
(c) Utah
(d) Texas

Short Answer Questions

1. When Richard Allen Mesington is fourteen years old he considers pursuing all of the following careers except?

2. Just before the "sweet" rifle accidentally discharges, what is Harv Kline doing?

3. At the novel's conclusion, who is the owner of the "sweet" rifle?

4. According to the novel, how long was Richard Allen Mesinger "supposed" to have lived?

5. Who lives next door to the Richard Allen Mesington family in Missouri?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the chain of events that leads to the rifle being above Harv Kline's fireplace.

2. Describe the chain of events that leads to the rifle being accidentally discharged.

3. What message does the novel convey?

4. The novel summarizes the life that Richard Allen Mesinger "would" have had if he had not been killed. Is this a valid narrative technique?

5. Throughout the 217 year history of the "sweet" rifle, what is it functionally used for?

6. Do you think that Harv Kline feels he got a fair exchange with Tim Harrow?

7. The novel openly mocks Tim Harrow's personal philosophy that draws from firearms and American history, the United States Constitution, and Christianity. Do you think that these sources of information are suitable for mockery?

8. What experiences does Mesinger have with firearms in his life?

9. Sarah steals the rifle from John Byam as he dies; does Tilson steal the rifle from Harv Kline?

10. How many people own the "sweet" rifle?

(see the answer keys)

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