Read the excerpt from Julius Caesar in Act IV. Cassius: …I that denied thee gold will give my heart. Strike as thou didst at Caesar.

Brutus: (Suddenly melting, he says gently,) Sheathe your dagger. (He pushes the weapon back to Cassius.) Be angry when you will. Do what you will.

(He puts his hand to his head.) O Cassius, I am sick of many griefs. (He gives a great sigh.) Portia is dead.

Cassius: (Shocked) Portia? (With wonder) How escaped I killing when I crossed you so?

Brutus: (Bravely) Speak no more of her. (His servant Lucius brings in a tray with wine, two bowls, a book, and a lighted candle.) Give me a bowl of wine. (He and Cassius raise bowls and toast each other.) In this I bury all unkindness, Cassius.

Based on the excerpt, what effect does Portia's death have on Brutus?

A) Brutus loses his temper more easily with Cassius.

B) Brutus realizes that arguing with Cassius is unimportant.

C) Brutus is more concerned with with how Cassius treats him.

D) Brutus is no longer strong enough to stand up to Cassius.