I was puzzled, and wanted to discuss the matter a little further, but they didn't; so I took my leave, feeling hurt and insulted
to be made the butt of what was apparently some kind of a practical joke, and yet obliged to put up with it, not being in circumstances to resent affronts from rich and strong folk.
The given sentence is from Mark Twain's "The million pound Bank-Note" is and it is implied that Poor people were expected to tolerate any ridicule made by the rich.
Inside the envelope is a single unique one million pound sterling note. Unbeknownst to him, Henry is the subject of a bet: Brother B believes that simply holding this symbol of wealth, without any other means of support, will allow someone to survive the entire month.
Hence, the correct answer is Poor people were expected to tolerate any ridicule made by the rich.
