To solve this question, we need to determine the correct preposition to fill in the blank in the given sentence.
Step 1: Understand the meaning of the sentence
The sentence states that someone has copied a letter. We need to find the correct preposition that shows how the copying was done, specifically how the words of the letter were copied.
Step 2: Analyze the options
We have four options to choose from: by, in, for, and from. Let's analyze each option:
1. By: This preposition indicates the method or means by which an action is done. For example, "The letter was copied by hand." In this case, it doesn't provide the appropriate meaning of copying word for word.
2. In: This preposition is used to indicate the location or position of something. For example, "He wrote his name in the book." In this case, it doesn't provide the appropriate meaning of copying word for word.
3. For: This preposition is generally used to show purpose or intended recipient. For example, "This gift is for you." In this case, it doesn't provide the appropriate meaning of copying word for word.
4. From: This preposition indicates the source or origin of something. For example, "I learned a lot from that book." In this case, it provides the appropriate meaning of copying word for word, as the words are taken directly from the original letter.
Step 3: Determine the correct preposition
Based on the analysis of the options, the correct preposition to fill in the blank is from.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D: .