21. — Have you heard of the North Korea’s nuclear test?

— Yes, ________ news came as ________ shock to me.

A. the; a                       B. the; the                   C. a; a                         D. a; the

22. _____ his knowledge of the mountainous country, John Smith was appointed as our guide.

A. In spite of                          B. On account of

C. Regardless of                             D. Instead of

23. I support your decision, but I should also make it clear that I am not going to be _____ to it.

A. connected         B. fastened            C. bound              D. stuck