Arrange the sentences: (1) Then, the clerk checks the documents. (2) First, the applicant fills out the form. (3) Finally, the permit is released. (4) Next, the applicant pays the fee.

The correct answer is A. 2-1-4-3

The sequence words set the order: "First" (2), "Then" (1), "Next" (4) and "Finally" (3). Here the clerk checks the documents before payment, as the words "Then" and "Next" indicate.