Answer: It would be (B.).
Explanation:
In <em>The Case of the Defaced Painting</em>, we immediately encounter details that can help us solve the mystery. Part 1 of the story contains several clues. We learn that there is paint on the floor and on the chair that is close to the painting. We also learn that Mrs. Williams seems to be angry about the fact that her husband cares about the paintings so much. Finally, we also learn that Mrs. William is not wearing her wedding ring.
There is no underlined part
Blanche, by retreating into hysteria and madness, and by refusing to acknowledge her sister as she leaves the apartment with the doctor, may be sparing Stella the horror of having to face the truth about her husband. Blanche's descent into madness shields Stella from the truth.