Benchmark U4 Week 1 Assessment - Eisenhower

Read the passage and answer the questions that follow.

A Sweet Memory

1 When Ellen received the invitation to President Andrew Johnson’s birthday party, she wondered why. Her family was not rich or important; they ran a confectioner’s shop. Perhaps the president’s grown-up daughter had noticed her when she came in to order fancy sweets for special dinners. In any case, Ellen had indeed been invited.

2 The hours before the party crept by like a snail. Finally, though, the time came to get ready. Mama buttoned the back of Ellen’s beautiful new dress, which sparkled like an emerald, and tied and retied Ellen’s sash. Then Papa walked her the five blocks to the White House. Ellen made him promise not to come fetch her even a minute early.

3 When the three hundred children were ushered into the East Room, what a sight met their eyes! There were flowers everywhere. A stage was festooned with pink cloth and evergreens. The Marine Band was standing by to play dance music. The president’s five grandchildren (the official hosts of the party) were waiting to welcome them.

4 Once the children had finished streaming in and the president had entered and greeted them, it was time for the dancing. The guests formed two long lines, boys facing girls, ready to promenade.

5 Ellen was delighted to find herself next to Sarah Stover, one of the president’s granddaughters, especially since she and Sarah were both eleven years old. Ellen was trying to find something to say when Sarah leaned over and whispered, “I wish we could eat first. You should see the desserts!” She winked, Ellen stifled a laugh, and both girls turned their attention to the dance leader.

6 With so many participants, the six dances took a very long time. Afterward, the grandchildren led the way to the dining room. Sarah was right—the desserts were splendid.

7 Ellen did not have another chance to speak with Sarah, who of course had many claims on her attention. When Ellen left to walk home with Papa, she proudly bore the little bouquet given to each child. In addition, wrapped in her handkerchief and hidden in the folds of her dress was a small piece of cake. Ellen planned to keep it always, a memento of the time she shared dessert with the president’s granddaughter.