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Only ...... reference works possess the value of Encyclopedia Brittanica.
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Solution: Step 1: The sentence implies that there are very few, almost no, other reference works as valuable as Encyclopedia Brittanica.
Step 2: The blank requires a quantifier that conveys this sense of scarcity or rarity, emphasizing a negative or restrictive quantity.
Step 3: Evaluate the options: 'A few', 'Few', 'The few', 'Fewer'.
Step 4: 'A few' means some, a small number (positive connotation). 'The few' refers to a specific small number already known. 'Fewer' is a comparative quantifier.
Step 5: 'Few' (without 'a') means almost none or not many, conveying a negative or restrictive sense, which fits the implied uniqueness and high value of Encyclopedia Brittanica.
Step 6: Therefore, 'Few' is the correct quantifier.