What is the effect of the author's choice of the word recoiled rather than withdrew in this sentence from the count of monte cristo? the soldiers interposed their bayonets, for they thought that he was about to attack the inspector, and the latter recoiled two or three steps. a. it implies that the inspector turned his back on the situation. b. it shows that the inspector was prepared for an attack. c. it indicates a sideways rather than a backward movement. d. it suggests that the inspector was surprised and afraid.