Prester John Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

Which character in Prester John is a skilled intelligence officer who has extensive knowledge of native customs and rituals?

  • David Crawfurd
  • John Laputa
  • Captain Arcoll
  • Henriques

Correct Answer: Captain Arcoll

Correct Answer Explanation: Captain Arcoll is a skilled intelligence officer who is tasked with stopping John Laputa’s rebellion. He is able to use his knowledge of native customs and rituals to outsmart Laputa and eventually bring him down.

What is the name of the real place in South Africa that the fictional town of Blaauwildebeestefontein is based on?

  • The Rooirand Mountains
  • Pietersdorp
  • The Zoutpansberg Mountains
  • Kirkcaple

Correct Answer: The Zoutpansberg Mountains

Correct Answer Explanation: The story is set in South Africa and Blaauwildebeestefontein, a fictional town, is loosely based on a real place in the Zoutpansberg Mountains. Although the name translates to “Spring of the Blue Wildebeest,” there is no known spring with this name.

What is the name of the sacred cave in the Rooirand Mountains?

  • The Cave of the Great Snake
  • The Cave of the Prester John
  • The Cave of the Great-Great Ancestor
  • The Cave of the Lost Treasure

Correct Answer: The Cave of the Prester John

Correct Answer Explanation: The cave in the Rooirand Mountains is a sacred place for the natives and is said to be the location of a diamond mine. It is also the location of the Prester John’s necklace, which Laputa uses to unite the tribes against the white settlers.

What does Laputa use to unite the tribes against the white settlers?

  • Diamonds
  • The Prester John’s necklace
  • A new gospel of African nationalism
  • All of the above

Correct Answer: All of the above

Correct Answer Explanation: Laputa is a skilled and charismatic leader who uses a potent combination of religion, magic, and diamonds to unite tribes against the white settlers. He uses the Prester John’s necklace as a symbol of power and authority, and he preaches a new gospel of African nationalism to inspire the natives to fight for their freedom. He also uses his control of the diamond trade to fund his rebellion.

What is the name of the powerful relic that Laputa wields?

  • The Prester John’s necklace
  • The Prester John’s scepter
  • The Prester John’s crown
  • The Prester John’s sword

Correct Answer: The Prester John’s necklace

Correct Answer Explanation: The Prester John’s necklace is a powerful relic that is said to have belonged to the legendary Christian king. It is said to have magical powers and is used by Laputa to unite the tribes against the white settlers.

What is the name of the native chief residing in the mountains north of Blaauwildebeestefontein?

  • Sikitola
  • Magata
  • Mpefu
  • Majinje

Correct Answer: Magata

Correct Answer Explanation: Magata is a chief residing in the mountains north of Blaauwildebeestefontein. He is one of the many chiefs who are united by Laputa under the banner of the Prester John.

What is the name of the native chief who is imprisoned by the Boers?

  • Sikitola
  • Magata
  • Mpefu
  • Majinje

Correct Answer: Mpefu

Correct Answer Explanation: Mpefu is a prominent native chief in the Zoutpansberg, who had been imprisoned by the Boers. His imprisonment is a symbol of the oppression that the natives are suffering under the white settlers.

What is the name of the native chief who is known for her ability to bring rain?

  • Sikitola
  • Magata
  • Mpefu
  • Majinje

Correct Answer: Majinje

Correct Answer Explanation: Majinje is a female chieftain, known for her ability to bring rain. Her role in the story highlights the importance of traditional beliefs and practices in native culture.

What is the name of the town that serves as an administrative center for the region?

  • Pietersdorp
  • Blaauwildebeestefontein
  • Kirkcaple
  • Dupree’s Drift

Correct Answer: Pietersdorp

Correct Answer Explanation: Pietersdorp is a town in the northern Transvaal, serving as an administrative center for the region. It is a symbol of white settler control over the area.

What is the name of the mountain range that is home to the sacred cave and a source of diamonds?

  • The Rooirand Mountains
  • The Zoutpansberg Mountains
  • The Wolkberg Mountains
  • The Ntabakaikonjwa Mountains

Correct Answer: The Rooirand Mountains

Correct Answer Explanation: The Rooirand Mountains are a mountain range in the northern Transvaal, home to a sacred cave and a source of diamonds. It is a significant location in the story and is associated with both native tradition and the greed of the diamond trade.

What is the name of the native language spoken by the Basotho people?

  • Sesuto
  • Baronga
  • Zulu
  • Xhosa

Correct Answer: Sesuto

Correct Answer Explanation: Sesuto is a Bantu language spoken by the Basotho people in South Africa. It is one of many languages spoken by the native populations in the region, reflecting the diversity of cultures in South Africa.

What is the name of the native language spoken by the Shangaan people?

  • Sesuto
  • Baronga
  • Zulu
  • Xhosa

Correct Answer: Baronga

Correct Answer Explanation: Baronga is a Bantu language spoken by the Shangaan people, an ethnic group in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. The presence of various native languages reflects the complex cultural and linguistic landscape of the region.

What is the name of the native medicine practitioner who uses herbal remedies and rituals for healing?

  • Tokhaars
  • Indunas
  • Umvelos
  • Mpefu

Correct Answer: Tokhaars

Correct Answer Explanation: Tokhaars is a type of native medicine practitioner who uses herbal remedies and rituals for healing. Their traditional knowledge and practices represent a valuable aspect of native culture.

What is the term for a shallow wetland or depression often found in South Africa?

  • Vlei
  • Kranses
  • Dacha
  • Rooirand

Correct Answer: Vlei

Correct Answer Explanation: Vlei is a term for a shallow wetland or depression often found in South Africa. It is a common feature of the landscape and is often associated with wildlife and biodiversity.

What is the name of the breed of horses known for their speed and endurance?

  • Blaauw-schimmel
  • Schimmel
  • Machila
  • Assegai

Correct Answer: Blaauw-schimmel

Correct Answer Explanation: Blaauw-schimmel is a breed of blue-roan Africander horses, known for their speed and endurance. They are often used for transportation and are a symbol of both practicality and prestige.

What is the term for a type of spear commonly used by Zulu warriors?

  • Assegai
  • Knobkerrie
  • Voorslag
  • Indaba

Correct Answer: Assegai

Correct Answer Explanation: Assegai is a type of spear commonly used by Zulu warriors. It is a powerful weapon and is often associated with the strength and resilience of the Zulu people.

What is the name of the type of bird related to the bustard, often hunted for food in South Africa?

  • Korhaan
  • Berghaan
  • Paauw
  • Mamba

Correct Answer: Korhaan

Correct Answer Explanation: Korhaan is a type of bird related to the bustard, often hunted for food in South Africa. It is a common part of the ecosystem and is a source of food and sustenance for native communities.

What is the name of the type of tree often known as the “wild fig”?

  • Merula
  • Dacha
  • Stelf
  • Kya

Correct Answer: Merula

Correct Answer Explanation: Merula is a type of tree in Southern Africa, often known as the “wild fig”. It is a valuable part of the environment and provides food and shelter for wildlife.

What is the name of the type of antelope known for its agility in rocky terrain?

  • Klipspringer
  • Tsessebe
  • Baviaan
  • Paauw

Correct Answer: Klipspringer

Correct Answer Explanation: Klipspringer is a type of antelope known for its agility in rocky terrain. It is an adaptable creature and is able to navigate the challenging terrain of the Rooirand Mountains.

What is the name of the type of club or mace, used as a weapon by native communities?

  • Knobkerrie
  • Assegai
  • Voorslag
  • Indaba

Correct Answer: Knobkerrie

Correct Answer Explanation: Knobkerrie is a type of club or mace, used as a weapon by native communities. It is a simple yet effective weapon and is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the native people.

What is the Zulu word for “Great-Great Ancestor” representing a powerful god in their mythology?

  • Umkulunkulu
  • Ndhlondhlo
  • Inkulu
  • Isetembiso sami

Correct Answer: Umkulunkulu

Correct Answer Explanation: Umkulunkulu is a Zulu word for “Great-Great Ancestor,” representing a powerful god in their mythology. He is the creator of the world and is believed to be the ultimate source of power and authority.

What is the name of the mythical creature that is linked to the Prester John?

  • Ndhlondhlo
  • Inkulu
  • Isetembiso sami
  • Mpefu

Correct Answer: Ndhlondhlo

Correct Answer Explanation: Ndhlondhlo is the Zulu name for the “Great Snake,” a sacred fetish linked to the mythical Prester John. It is a powerful symbol in Zulu mythology and is said to represent the wisdom and power of the ancestors.

What is the name of the hairstyle commonly worn by Zulu warriors, where hair is woven into a circlet?

  • Ringkops
  • Ting-kop
  • Machila
  • Indaba

Correct Answer: Ting-kop

Correct Answer Explanation: Ting-kop is a circlet into which Zulu warriors weave their hair. It is a symbol of their status and their connection to their ancestors.

What is the Zulu term for a “very sacred thing”?

  • Inkulu
  • Isetembiso sami
  • Ndhlondhlo
  • Umkulunkulu

Correct Answer: Isetembiso sami

Correct Answer Explanation: Isetembiso sami is a Zulu term for a “very sacred thing”. This phrase reflects the importance of sacred objects and rituals in Zulu culture.

What is the name of the type of litter used for carrying individuals, typically a type of hammock?

  • Machila
  • Ting-kop
  • Ringkops
  • Assegai

Correct Answer: Machila

Correct Answer Explanation: Machila is a litter used for carrying individuals, typically a type of hammock. It is a practical mode of transportation in difficult terrain and is a symbol of both practicality and respect.

What is the term for a type of handhold, often formed by a natural niche in a rock?

  • Stelf
  • Klipspringer
  • Kranses
  • Dacha

Correct Answer: Stelf

Correct Answer Explanation: Stelf is a type of handhold, often formed by a natural niche in a rock. It is a useful feature in navigating challenging terrain and is a testament to the resourcefulness of those who traverse such landscapes.

What is the name of the type of whip or lash made of leather often used by South African farmers?

  • Voorslag
  • Assegai
  • Knobkerrie
  • Indaba

Correct Answer: Voorslag

Correct Answer Explanation: Voorslag is a whip or lash made of leather, often used by South African farmers. It is a symbol of both authority and control, and its use reflects the realities of colonial life in South Africa.

What is the name of the type of elephant gun often used by Boers?

  • Roer
  • Assegai
  • Knobkerrie
  • Voorslag

Correct Answer: Roer

Correct Answer Explanation: Roer is a type of elephant gun, often used by Boers. It is a powerful weapon and is a symbol of the hunting and dominance that characterized colonial life in South Africa.

What is the term for a type of fibrous plant used for various purposes, including making rope?

  • Dacha
  • Merula
  • Stelf
  • Klipspringer

Correct Answer: Dacha

Correct Answer Explanation: Dacha is a type of hemp, a fibrous plant used for various purposes, including making rope. It is a versatile resource and is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of the native people.

What is the term for a tribal council or gathering for discussing important matters?

  • Indaba
  • Roer
  • Voorslag
  • Assegai

Correct Answer: Indaba

Correct Answer Explanation: Indaba is a tribal council or gathering for discussing important matters. It is a vital part of native culture and is a forum for decision-making and conflict resolution.

What is the name of the type of bird found in mountainous regions of Southern Africa?

  • Berghaan
  • Korhaan
  • Paauw
  • Mamba

Correct Answer: Berghaan

Correct Answer Explanation: Berghaan is a type of bird found in mountainous regions of Southern Africa. Its presence reflects the diversity of wildlife in the region and its ability to thrive in challenging environments.

What is the name of the type of horse, specifically a white or grey horse?

  • Schimmel
  • Blaauw-schimmel
  • Machila
  • Assegai

Correct Answer: Schimmel

Correct Answer Explanation: Schimmel is a type of horse, specifically a white or grey horse. It is a common type of horse in South Africa and is often associated with both practicality and beauty.

What is the title for a great chief, often reserved for the most powerful leader in a region?

  • Inkulu
  • Isetembiso sami
  • Ndhlondhlo
  • Umkulunkulu

Correct Answer: Inkulu

Correct Answer Explanation: Inkulu is a title for a great chief, often reserved for the most powerful leader in a region. It is a symbol of status and authority and reflects the hierarchical structure of native society.

What is the name of the type of hut or dwelling, typically with a conical roof?

  • Kya
  • Stelf
  • Dacha
  • Merula

Correct Answer: Kya

Correct Answer Explanation: Kya is a hut or dwelling, typically with a conical roof. It is a common form of shelter in native communities and reflects the ingenuity and adaptability of the people.

What is the name of the type of rock formations, particularly a rocky cliff or ledge?

  • Kranses
  • Vlei
  • Dacha
  • Rooirand

Correct Answer: Kranses

Correct Answer Explanation: Kranses are rock formations, particularly a rocky cliff or ledge. They are common features of the South African landscape and are often associated with breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain.

What is the name of the venomous snake found in Southern Africa?

  • Mamba
  • Berghaan
  • Korhaan
  • Paauw

Correct Answer: Mamba

Correct Answer Explanation: Mamba is a venomous snake found in Southern Africa. It is a dangerous creature and is a symbol of the natural perils that exist in the region.

What is the name of the type of loose rock and debris often found on slopes and at the base of cliffs?

  • Débris
  • Kranses
  • Vlei
  • Dacha

Correct Answer: Débris

Correct Answer Explanation: Débris is loose rock and debris often found on slopes and at the base of cliffs. It is a common feature of mountainous terrain and can pose a hazard to those who traverse such areas.

What is the term for a rascal or a mischievous or dishonest person?

  • Skellum
  • Voorslag
  • Indaba
  • Assegai

Correct Answer: Skellum

Correct Answer Explanation: Skellum is a term for a rascal or a mischievous or dishonest person. It is a common word in South African slang and is often used to describe someone who is untrustworthy or up to no good.

What is the term for a baboon, a type of monkey commonly found in Southern Africa?

  • Baviaan
  • Schimmel
  • Machila
  • Ting-kop

Correct Answer: Baviaan

Correct Answer Explanation: Baviaan is a term for a baboon, a type of monkey commonly found in Southern Africa. They are a common sight in the region and are often associated with their intelligence and social behavior.

What is the name of the type of bird often kept for its beauty and plumage?

  • Paauw
  • Berghaan
  • Korhaan
  • Mamba

Correct Answer: Paauw

Correct Answer Explanation: Paauw is a peacock, a bird often kept for its beauty and plumage. They are a striking creature and are often associated with elegance and exoticism.

What is the name for the Communion Sabbath, a religious observance in the Dutch Reformed Church?

  • Naachtmaal
  • Indaba
  • Roer
  • Voorslag

Correct Answer: Naachtmaal

Correct Answer Explanation: Naachtmaal is the Communion Sabbath, a religious observance in the Dutch Reformed Church. It is a significant event for those who practice this faith and is often associated with community and fellowship.

How many steerage passengers did David encounter on his journey to South Africa?

  • 50
  • 20,000
  • 3,000
  • 2 million

Correct Answer: 50

Correct Answer Explanation: David encounters a diverse group of 50 steerage passengers on his journey to South Africa. This detail highlights the social and economic realities of the time, demonstrating the wide range of people who traveled to South Africa during this period.

How many native warriors did Laputa command during his rebellion?

  • 50
  • 20,000
  • 3,000
  • 2 million

Correct Answer: 20,000

Correct Answer Explanation: Laputa commands a formidable army of 20,000 native warriors for his rebellion. This number signifies the potential strength and threat posed by the native population, highlighting the scale of the rebellion and the potential for widespread conflict.

How many souls were slaughtered during Tchaka’s violent conquests?

  • 50
  • 20,000
  • 3,000
  • 2 million

Correct Answer: 2 million

Correct Answer Explanation: Tchaka’s violent conquests led to the slaughter of an estimated 2 million souls. This statistic highlights the brutality of Zulu warfare and the devastating impact on indigenous communities. It also underscores the historical context of the story, demonstrating the ongoing struggle for power and control in the region.

How many students were enrolled in the native training college at Blaauwildebeestefontein?

  • 50
  • 20,000
  • 3,000
  • 2 million

Correct Answer: 3,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The success of the native training college at Blaauwildebeestefontein highlights the potential for positive change and development in the region. It demonstrates the possibility of education and social progress in a time of great conflict and upheaval.

What is the phrase meaning to suffer the consequences of one’s own actions?

  • Stew in your own juice
  • Ringkops
  • Indaba
  • Roer

Correct Answer: Stew in your own juice

Correct Answer Explanation: This idiom highlights the theme of consequences and accountability, emphasizing that individuals are responsible for the actions they choose to take. It is a relevant phrase in the context of the story, as Laputa’s ambition ultimately leads to his downfall.

What is the name of the native chief who is a large and influential leader near Blaauwildebeestefontein?

  • Sikitola
  • Magata
  • Mpefu
  • Majinje

Correct Answer: Sikitola

Correct Answer Explanation: Sikitola is a large and influential native chief near Blaauwildebeestefontein. His presence reflects the complex dynamics of power and influence among the native communities, illustrating the various alliances and rivalries that existed during this time.

What is the name of the location where Henriques betrays Laputa’s rebellion and David’s efforts to thwart the uprising?

  • Dupree’s Drift
  • The Cave of the Prester John
  • Blaauwildebeestefontein
  • Pietersdorp

Correct Answer: Dupree’s Drift

Correct Answer Explanation: Dupree’s Drift is the location where Henriques’ treacherous actions come to light. His betrayal exemplifies the complexities of loyalty and betrayal in a time of great conflict and uncertainty.

What is the name of the location where David escapes from the store and his pursuers?

  • Umvelos
  • Inanda’s Kraal
  • The Rooirand Mountains
  • Dupree’s Drift

Correct Answer: Umvelos

Correct Answer Explanation: Umvelos is the name of the store in the story. The escape from Umvelos is a pivotal moment, demonstrating David’s courage and resourcefulness in a dangerous situation.

What is the name of the native village where Arcoll meets with the native chiefs to negotiate a peaceful resolution to the conflict?

  • Inanda’s Kraal
  • The Cave of the Prester John
  • Dupree’s Drift
  • Pietersdorp

Correct Answer: Inanda’s Kraal

Correct Answer Explanation: Inanda’s Kraal is the location where Arcoll engages in tense negotiations with the native chiefs. This scene highlights the importance of diplomacy and communication in resolving conflict, demonstrating the potential for peaceful resolutions even in a time of great upheaval.

What is the name of the place where both Laputa and Henriques meet their end?

  • The Cave of the Prester John
  • Inanda’s Kraal
  • Dupree’s Drift
  • Pietersdorp

Correct Answer: The Cave of the Prester John

Correct Answer Explanation: The Cave of the Prester John is the setting for the climactic confrontation between Arcoll and Laputa’s forces. It is a symbolic location that represents the culmination of the rebellion and the final defeat of Laputa’s ambitions.

What is the name of the mountain range where the native name for the Rooirand Mountains is Ntabakaikonjwa?

  • The Rooirand Mountains
  • The Zoutpansberg Mountains
  • The Wolkberg Mountains
  • The Ntabakaikonjwa Mountains

Correct Answer: The Rooirand Mountains

Correct Answer Explanation: The native name for the Rooirand Mountains is Ntabakaikonjwa, highlighting the significance of the location to the indigenous people. It is a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of the region.

What is the name of the initial encounter that sets the stage for the entire story, introducing David to the mysterious and powerful nature of Laputa and foreshadowing his future involvement in a larger conspiracy?

  • The encounter with Laputa on the Kirkcaple shore
  • Japp’s illicit diamond trade
  • The description of the Rooirand cave
  • Laputa’s sermon in the cave

Correct Answer: The encounter with Laputa on the Kirkcaple shore

Correct Answer Explanation: This initial encounter sets the stage for the entire story, introducing David to the mysterious and powerful nature of Laputa and foreshadowing his future involvement in a larger conspiracy.

What is the name of the event that demonstrates the greed and corruption that often accompanied the diamond trade in South Africa?

  • The encounter with Laputa on the Kirkcaple shore
  • Japp’s illicit diamond trade
  • The description of the Rooirand cave
  • Laputa’s sermon in the cave

Correct Answer: Japp’s illicit diamond trade

Correct Answer Explanation: The corrupt practices of the storekeeper at Blaauwildebeestefontein demonstrate the greed and corruption that often accompanied the diamond trade in South Africa. This detail provides insight into the economic and social realities of the time.

What is the name of the event that creates a sense of mystique and otherworldly power?

  • The encounter with Laputa on the Kirkcaple shore
  • Japp’s illicit diamond trade
  • The description of the Rooirand cave
  • Laputa’s sermon in the cave

Correct Answer: The description of the Rooirand cave

Correct Answer Explanation: The vivid descriptions of the cave, including the waterfall, the torches, the rituals, and the presence of the Prester John’s collar, create a sense of mystique and otherworldly power.

What is the name of the event that highlights the influence of charismatic leaders and the potent mix of religion and nationalism?

  • The encounter with Laputa on the Kirkcaple shore
  • Japp’s illicit diamond trade
  • The description of the Rooirand cave
  • Laputa’s sermon in the cave

Correct Answer: Laputa’s sermon in the cave

Correct Answer Explanation: Laputa’s powerful oratory skills are evident in his ability to stir the hearts of the native warriors, highlighting the influence of charismatic leaders and the potent mix of religion and nationalism.

What is the name of the event that demonstrates David’s courage and resourcefulness in a dangerous situation?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa

Correct Answer: The escape from Umvelos’

Correct Answer Explanation: The tense and suspenseful sequence of events leading to David’s escape from the store demonstrates his courage and resourcefulness in a dangerous situation.

What is the name of the event that emphasizes the complexities of loyalty and betrayal?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa

Correct Answer: The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift

Correct Answer Explanation: Henriques’ treacherous actions and his betrayal of both Laputa’s rebellion and David’s efforts to thwart the uprising emphasize the complexities of loyalty and betrayal.

What is the name of the event that exemplifies the physical and mental resilience required to overcome adversity?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa

Correct Answer: The escape from Machudi’s men

Correct Answer Explanation: David’s arduous climb up the cliffs, showcasing his determination and survival skills, exemplifies the physical and mental resilience required to overcome adversity.

What is the name of the event that showcases the effectiveness of a well-organized and calculated pursuit?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa

Correct Answer: Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa

Correct Answer Explanation: The intricate and daring strategy employed by Arcoll to isolate and ultimately capture Laputa showcases the effectiveness of a well-organized and calculated pursuit.

What is the name of the event that demonstrates the power of words and diplomacy in a conflict-ridden situation?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa
  • The indaba at Inanda’s Kraal

Correct Answer: The indaba at Inanda’s Kraal

Correct Answer Explanation: The tense negotiation between Arcoll and the native chiefs, highlighting the power of words and diplomacy in a conflict-ridden situation, demonstrates the potential for peaceful resolutions.

What is the name of the event that underscores the fleeting nature of material possessions and the enduring power of ideals and beliefs?

  • The escape from Umvelos’
  • The meeting with Henriques at Dupree’s Drift
  • The escape from Machudi’s men
  • Arcoll’s shepherding of Laputa
  • The indaba at Inanda’s Kraal
  • The destruction of the treasure

Correct Answer: The destruction of the treasure

Correct Answer Explanation: Laputa’s act of destroying the hidden wealth underscores the fleeting nature of material possessions and the enduring power of ideals and beliefs. It is a symbolic gesture that reflects the true nature of power and the lasting impact of ideas.

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Jessmyn Solana

Jessmyn Solana is the Digital Marketing Manager of Interact, a place for creating beautiful and engaging quizzes that generate email leads. She is a marketing enthusiast and storyteller. Outside of Interact Jessmyn loves exploring new places, eating all the local foods, and spending time with her favorite people (especially her dog).

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