The man who is perpetually hesitating which of the two things he will do first, will do neither. The man who resolves, but suffers his resolution to be changed by the first counter- suggestion of a friend-who fluctuates from opinion to opinion and veers from plan to plan-can never accomplish anything. He will at best be stationary and probably retrograde in all. It is only the man who first consults wisely, then resolves firmly and then executes his purpose with inflexible perseverance, undismayed by those petty difficulties which daunt a weaker spirit-that can advance to eminence in any line.
The keynote that seems to be emerging from the passage is that

Correct Option (A)

The passage explicitly delineates a three-stage process for achieving eminence: wise consultation, firm resolution, and inflexible perseverance. The statement "first consults wisely, then resolves firmly" directly reflects the initial two critical steps emphasized by the author as prerequisites for effective action and accomplishment.

Incorrect Options:

• Option (B): The passage cautions against allowing one's resolution to be "changed by the first counter-suggestion of a friend," indicating a need for steadfastness. However, it does not advocate for a blanket rejection of all suggestions, but rather for maintaining a firm purpose once a decision is made, preventing constant fluctuation.
• Option (C): While broad-mindedness may be a desirable trait, the passage's core message centers on the importance of decisiveness and unwavering execution after initial deliberation. It highlights the detrimental effects of fluctuating opinions and plans, rather than promoting perpetual openness to change.
• Option (D): The passage certainly promotes being resolute and achievement-oriented, as evidenced by its emphasis on firm resolution and inflexible perseverance to "advance to eminence." However, this option omits the crucial preceding step of "consults wisely," which the passage explicitly states as the foundational element before resolving firmly and executing. Therefore, while partially aligned, it does not capture the complete keynote sequence presented.