5. How long had their last dry spell lasted before the old man and the boy caught some good fish? (a) 86 days. (b) 67 days. (c) 84 days. (d) 64 days. 1. How long had Santiago gone without catching a fish? (a) 1 year. (b) 84 days. (c) 6 months. (d) 87 days. 2. What is the meaning of salao? (a) A greeting. (b) A small room. (c) The champion. (d) Extreme bad luck. The Old Man and the Sea Multiple Choice Test Questions. 4. Even though the boy can no longer fish with Santiago, how does he show his loyalty? (a) He invites him to his parents' house for supper. (b) He helps Santiago repaint his boat. (c) He gives Santiago a new sail for his boat. (d) He goes every day to help him unload his equipment. Detailed Summary & Analysis. 3. Why does the boy stop fishing with Santiago? (a) His parents think Santiago has bad character. (b) His parents do not want him to go to sea. (c) His parents force him to go with a lucky boat. (d) His parents think Santiago's boat is unsafe.