Final answer:
The setting at the beginning of the novel 'The Secret Garden' is an old, neglected garden. It reflects the neglected state of the manor and sets the stage for transformation in the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The setting at the beginning of the novel The Secret Garden is c. The initial setting is an old, neglected garden. The story starts in a bustling city, but once the main character, Mary, arrives at Misselthwaite Manor, she discovers the neglected garden. The garden is described as overgrown, with dead trees and flowers, which reflects the neglected state of the manor and sets the stage for the transformation that will occur throughout the story.