The test administrator again seems to be more friendly than she initially lets on, as she winks at Reynie and implicitly compliments him for being observant. The fact that even questioning the tests is a test in itself highlights the reflexive nature of these challenges––in other words, the tests examine and challenge
themselves. It also suggests that the test is seeking children who can think for themselves and question authority. Kate revealing her spyglass “in disguise” continues the motif of disguises that has run through the tests. Though the children were expected to be honest when it came to cheating on the test, the reoccurrence of disguises hints that deception can occasionally be useful.