A words connotation is complied of the use of the word and its definition. The correct answer here is C. Dust.
Dust is dirty and most oftentimes a nuisance, this gives it the strongest negativity of the word provided. The action of eating is a neutrally connotated word, as it is a regular habit needed for survival. Hands are neutral as there are seemingly just a part of the body. Lastly, sweets are seen as delicious and pleasurable, which gives it a positive connotation. So, the only negative word here is dust.
I hope this helps :)
<span>Dimmesdale asks Pearl to kiss him. She does, and "a spell was broken ... her tears fell upon her father's cheek, they were the pledge that she would grow up amid human joy and sorrow, nor forever do battle with the world. Towards her mother, too, Pearl's errand as a messenger of anguish was all fulfilled."</span>
