Why does Maxwell say the airhostess was "the very queen of her kind"?
Maxwell calls the airhostess "the very queen of her kind" because of her extremely understanding and cooperative nature. When he took her into his confidence about the chaotic events involving his pet otter, she responded with kindness and professionalism rather than strictness.
Instead of creating trouble for him, she thoughtfully suggested that he might prefer to have his pet on his knee during the flight. This compassionate and helpful gesture earned Maxwell's profound admiration and deep gratitude, making him regard her as the finest of her profession.
Explanation
Maxwell uses this phrase to express his deep gratitude and admiration for the airhostess's exceptional understanding. Unlike the infuriated officials at the airport, the airhostess was sympathetic to his situation and offered a practical, kind solution by allowing the otter on his knee, which is why he holds her in such high regard.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the reason from the text—Maxwell confided in her about the chaotic events.
Step 2: Note her response—she kindly suggested he keep the pet on his knee.
Step 3: Connect her helpful response to Maxwell's profound admiration and the phrase 'very queen of her kind'.