Final Answer:
Richards rushes to tell Mrs. Mallard the news because he wants to comfort her.Thus the correct option is 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Kate Chopin's "The Story of an Hour," Richards rushes to tell Mrs. Mallard the news of her husband's death not to surprise her, share the news, or ask for her help, but primarily to offer comfort. This conclusion is drawn from a careful analysis of Richards' character and actions in the story. Throughout the narrative, Richards is portrayed as a caring and compassionate friend who is concerned about Mrs. Mallard's well-being. When the news of her husband's death is confirmed, Richards instinctively understands that Mrs. Mallard might be emotionally overwhelmed, and he rushes to her side to provide the support and comfort she may need in facing such distressing news (option 2).
Richards' intention to comfort Mrs. Mallard is evident in the text as he endeavors to be the one to break the news to her gently. The story describes how he "had only taken the time to assure himself of its truth by a second telegram and had hastened to forestall any less careful, less tender friend in bearing the sad message." This demonstrates Richards' understanding of the sensitive nature of the information and his desire to deliver it in a manner that minimizes its emotional impact on Mrs. Mallard. Therefore, the conclusive answer to the question is that Richards rushes to tell Mrs. Mallard the news because he wants to provide her with comfort and support during a challenging moment in her life (option 2).