This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B.

Part A

Read the following passage. What does the word commenced mean?

Darius commenced to whistle as he walked down the dark path. After he began whistling, he felt his courage grow.

A.
stopped

B.
started

C.
tried

D.
failed

Part B

What word in the passage is the best clue to the meaning of commenced?

A.
walked

B.
dark

C.
began

D.
grow