Sentence 1: This was getting close.

Sentence 2: This was very close.
Is this second sentence entailed by the first?

Answer: yes

Sentence 1: Rising above the flower beds is the solemn Scott Monument, complete with a resident flock of pigeons that badger people on surrounding park benches for crumbs.

Sentence 2: The Scott Monument had a bunch of pigeons living in the area and pester people for some food.
Is this second sentence entailed by the first?

Answer: yes

Sentence 1: He is apparently a skilled lawyer -- having built a hugely successful trial practice in Marietta before running for governor.

Sentence 2: The candidate running for governor is a skilled lawyer.
Is this second sentence entailed by the first?

Answer:
it is not possible to tell