The correct answer is B. self-assurance.
Diffidence is a lack of confidence or assurance. When someone is diffident, they may feel shy, hesitant, or unsure of themselves. After meeting the holy man, the person’s nagging mood of diffidence suddenly changed. This suggests that the holy man said or did something that made the person feel more confident and assured.
A. Confusion is a state of being puzzled or bewildered. It is possible that the person was confused after meeting the holy man, but this is not the most likely explanation for the change in their mood.
C. Contentment is a state of happiness or satisfaction. It is possible that the person was content after meeting the holy man, but this is also not the most likely explanation for the change in their mood.
D. Consternation is a state of anxiety or dismay. It is possible that the person was consternated after meeting the holy man, but this is also not the most likely explanation for the change in their mood.