adapted from Dead Souls
by Nikolai Gogol

For several minutes Plushkin stood mute, while Chichikov remained so dazed with the appearance of the host and everything else in the room, that he too, could not begin a conversation, but stood wondering how best to find words in which to explain the object of his visit. For a while he thought of expressing himself to the effect that, having heard so much of his host's benevolence and other rare qualities of spirit, he had considered it his duty to come and pay a tribute of respect; but presently even HE came to the conclusion that this would be overdoing the thing, and, after another glance round the room, decided that the phrase "benevolence and other rare qualities of spirit" might to advantage give place to "economy and genius for method."
Accordingly, the speech mentally composed, he said aloud that, having heard of Plushkin's talents for thrifty and systematic management, he had considered himself bound to make the acquaintance of his host, and to present him with his personal compliments.

2
Select the correct answer.
How does the setting influence characterization in the text?

A.
The setting causes Chichikob to become fearful of his host.
B.
The setting causes Chichikov to talk too much out of nervousness.
C.
The setting causes Chichikov to leave the room without speaking.
D.
The setting causes Chichikov to modify the explanation for his visit.