高中英语语法填空:短文题型能力练习 Test 36

高中英语语法填空:短文题型能力练习 Test 36

Americans of 1789 were sharply divided on the need for a national government. Many were afraid the new government would not survive. They feared the anarchy that would result if it failed. Others hoped it would fail. They wanted strong state governments, not a strong central government.

Also, in 1789, the American economy was improving after the destruction caused by the Revolutionary War. Agriculture, trade and shipbuilding were coming back to life. Roads, bridges and canals 　61　 (build).

The country's economy still had many problems, however. Two major issues had 　62　 (settle). One was the repayment of loans 　63　 to support the Revolutionary Army. The other was the creation of a national monetary system. Both issues needed quick action.

And before the new government could act, the old government still had work to do on other issues, like the question of a capital.

At the time the states approved the Constitution, the Continental Congress was meeting in New York City.And that was 　64　 the Congress decided to place the new government. Later, the capital would be moved to Philadelphia for a while. Finally, it would be established in Washington, DC, the District of Columbia.

Next, members of the Continental Congress had to decide when the states would choose a president. They agreed to March 4, 1789, the same day the Constitution would go into effect.

The states that ratified the Constitution chose electors to vote for a president. The result was not a surprise. They chose the hero of the Revolutionary War: George Washington. No one opposed the choice—except, perhaps, for George Washington himself.

Here are actors having an 　65　 (imagine) conversation between James Madison and George Washington. Madison 　66　 to persuade Washington that he should be the new nation's first president.

“Oh Sir, it must be you who serves as president. It is your influence 　67　 unites the states.”

“I can tell you honestly I do not want the honor. I am very much aware of my deficient education and the ten thousand embarrassments it will cause me in office. I would hope they could find a younger man. I want nothing more 　68　 to return to Mount Vernon and tend to my farming.”

“But, Sir, if your country should need you?”

“If 　69　 (call) I will serve.”

Washington learned of his election while at Mount Vernon, his home in Virginia. He left for New York 　70　 he was inaugurated on April 13.