Question: The third issue is addressed by assuming that deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are advanced by 6 months, and deaths from all other causes are advanced by 5 years.
COPD increases the chance of an early death.

Answer: it is not possible to tell

Question: She took one tottering step toward him and halted.
She staggered towards him, then stopped in her track.

Answer: yes

Question: You will remember my speaking of a stain on the carpet in Mrs. Inglethorp's room?
There was a stain on the carpet in Mrs. Inglethorp's room.

Answer:
yes