On which of the following arguments does the author of the passage principally base his appeal?

(A) It is hypocritical to sell one country a substance banned as harmful in one’s own. (B) Confucian teachings forbid the use of all narcotics as inherently immoral. (C) Addiction is causing China to suffer an unfavorable balance of trade. (D) Britain is unwise to risk the wrath of a militarily more powerful state.Explanation: (A) This question involves use of evidence, historical interpretation, and historical argumentation. However true B might be, Commissioner Lin makes no reference to it, nor does he base this part of his letter on threats, making D incorrect as well. Answer C touches on a point of concern for the Chinese, but Lin leaves this unspoken, hoping (in vain) to shame the British by showing that they are acting in violation of their own value system.