Read the historical information provided about the end of the Franco-Prussian War and the following excerpt from Guy de Maupassant's "Boule de Suif." In the excerpt, we learn about three noblemen and one lower-class revolutionary named Cornudet who are traveling together. Notice how Cornudet's presence affects the noblemen's conversation. Based on the historical information and the excerpt, what can you infer about how French society was affected by the war?

A.
The French noblemen were insensitive to the stresses that the poorer class underwent during and after the war.
B.
The French noblemen were severely burdened by their contribution to paying the German fine.
C.
The French noblemen had to work hard to reestablish their superiority after the war.
D.
The French noblemen made secret deals with the Prussians to save their personal property.