45. In sentence 19 (reproduced below), which of the follow-
ing versions of the underlined text best establishes the
writer's position on the main argument of the passage?
While the Palio is not important to outsiders who do not
live in Siena, the race and the festivities that follow are a
spectacular experience.
(A) (as it is now)
(B) It is no wonder:
(C) Although the Sienese have often been suspicious of
outsiders,
(D) Despite outside efforts to stop the 11 Palio,
(E) As I have witnessed myself on numerous occasions,