The horse and carriage are things of the past. But love and marriage are still with us and still closely interrelated. Most American marriages, particularly first marriages (31) young couples are the result of (32) attraction and affection (33) than practical considerations. In the United States, parents do not arrange marriages for their children. Teenagers begin (34) in high school and usually find mates through their own (35) and social contacts. Though young people feel free to choose their friends from (36) groups, most choose a mate of similar background. This is due in part to (37) guidance. Parents cannot select spouses for their children, but they can usually influence choices by (38) disapproval of someone they consider unsuitable. (39) , marriages between members of different groups ( interclass, interfaith, and interracial marriages) are increasing, probably because of the greater (40) of today’s youth and the fact that they are restricted by (41) prejudices than their parents. Many young people leave their home towns to attend college, (42) in the armed forces, (43) pursue a career in a bigger city. (44) away from home and family, they are more (45) to date and marry outside their own social group. In mobile American society, interclass marriages are neither (46) nor shocking. Interfaith marriages are (47) the rise particularly between Protestants and Catholics. (48) interracial marriage is still very uncommon. It can be difficult for interracial couples to find a place to live, maintain friendships, and (49) a family. Marriages between people of different national (50) (but the same race and religion) have been commonplace here since colonial times.

A. likely
B. ready
C. intended
D. possible