阅读理解。
Valentine's Day (情人节) is named for Saint Valentine an early Christmas churchman who reportedly
helped young lovers. Valentine was killed for his Christian beliefs on February 14 more than 1700 years ago,
but the day that has his name is even earlier than that.
More than 2,000 years ago, the ancient Romans celebrated a holiday for lovers. As part of the celebration,
girls wrote their names on pieces of paper and put them in a large container. Boys reached into the container
and pulled one out. The girl whose name was written on the paper became his lover or sweet heart for a year.
Lovers still put their names on pieces of paper and they sent each other Valentine's Day cards that tell of
their love. Sometimes they also sent gifts, like flowers or chocolate candy. Americans usually send these gifts
and cards through the mail system. But some used another way to send this message. They have it printed in a
newspaper. The cost is usually a few dollars. Some of the messages are simple and short"Jane, I love you very much". Others say more. This one, for example,"Dan, Roses are red. Violets are blue. I hope you love me as
much as I love you. Forever. May."
Most of the newspapers that print such messages are local, but USA Today is sold through-out the United
States, and 90 other countries as well. This means someone can send a Valentine message to lover in a far-away city or town almost anywhere in the world. These messages cost 80 dollars and more. An employee of USA
Today says readers can have a small heart or rose printed along with their messages this year. Will this kind of
Valentine's Day message reach the one you love? Well, just make sure he or she reads the newspaper.
1. When was the day named after Valentine?
A. More than 1700 years ago before Valentine's death
B. More than 2000 years ago
C. On February 24
D. It is not mentioned in the passage.
2. What is the cost of printing a message to show one's love? It's _______.
A. a few dollars
B. a few dollars in a local newspaper and 80 dollars in USA Today
C. 80 dollars, and more
D. very expensive
3. What can be inferred from the passage?
A. The ancient Roman girls were more open and easy - going than boys
B. Valentine was killed for helping lovers
C. Readers of USA Today can send roses to their lovers along with printed messages
D. Valentine was honored by people for his firm Christian belief and warm heart
4. What is the purpose of the passage?
A. To briefly introduce the origin of Valentine's Day and the modern style.
B. To advertise for USA Today.
C. To tell you that Americans are open to express their love.
D. To sell roses on Valentine's Day.
