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

The passage emphasizes that success comes from a combination of wise consultation, firm resolution, and inflexible perseverance. It contrasts those who fail (hesitant, easily swayed, fluctuating) with those who succeed by sticking to their purpose despite difficulties. The ultimate goal described for the successful person is to "advance to eminence in any line," which signifies achievement. Let's analyze the options: A) we should first consult wisely and then resolve firmly This option describes the initial steps mentioned in the passage but misses the crucial emphasis on "inflexible perseverance" and being "undismayed by those petty difficulties" which are central to accomplishing anything. It's only part of the message, not the keynote. B) we should reject suggestions of friends and remain unchanged The passage criticizes those whose resolution is "changed by the first counter Suggestion of a friend," implying a lack of firmness. However, it doesn't advocate rejecting all suggestions outright. The initial "consults wisely" suggests openness to input before resolving. This option is too extreme and misinterprets the nuance. C) we should always remain broad-minded The passage warns against those who "fluctuates from opinion to opinion and veers from plan to plan," which is the opposite of the kind of broad-mindedness that leads to accomplishment. While initial consultation might involve considering various perspectives, the core message for success is about firm commitment, not continuous wavering. D) we should be resolute and achievement-oriented "Resolute" perfectly captures the essence of "resolves firmly" and "executes his purpose with inflexible perseverance, undismayed by those petty difficulties." The entire passage is about how to accomplish things and avoid failure, with the successful individual advancing "to eminence." This clearly indicates an "achievement-oriented" mindset. This option comprehensively covers the main traits and the desired outcome highlighted in the passage. Therefore, D is the most accurate keynote emerging from the passage.