Why made instead of make?

[simel]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #90 "Using Make and Do (1)", question 2

She ......... him a solemn promise that she would never steal again.

(a) make
(b) do
(c) made
(d) did

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #90 "Using Make and Do (1)", answer 2

She made him a solemn promise that she would never steal again.

Correct answer: (c) made

Your answer was: incorrect
She make him a solemn promise that she would never steal again.
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hi,
why made instead of make?

thanks in advance.
simel

[Alan]

Hi,

You can tell from the use of 'would' that this 'promise' she made was in the past. It is a form a reported speech;

Direct: I make you a solemn promise that I will never steal again

Indirect: She made him a solemn promise that she would never steal again.

Alan
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