In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

The (1)_________ of roads in the 1700s and 1800s made the (2)_________ of goods and people much easier. Many nobles and businessmen (3)___________ their wealth in building bridges and tunnels. John Metcalfe was one of the most (4)__________ road builders of this period. He was blind and felt the surface of the road. This was done to make sure that it met his (5)_________.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.