Final answer:
The correct answer for the excuse provided for Utterson to talk to Jekyll about the will is that it involves Utterson's role as a lawyer, his concern for Jekyll's health, and his suspicions of Hyde, which collectively makes Option D) All of the above the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question concerns a plot detail from Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel, Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, which revolves around the mysterious relationship between the upright Dr. Jekyll and the nefarious Mr. Hyde. Gabriel John Utterson, who is Dr. Jekyll's lawyer, takes a deep interest in the strange will of his friend Jekyll, which leaves everything to Mr. Hyde upon Jekyll's death or disappearance. The reason provided in the novel for Utterson to talk to Jekyll about the will is multifaceted.
Utterson is indeed Jekyll's lawyer, which would naturally involve him in any legal affairs concerning Jekyll, including his will. Second, as a close friend and lawyer, Utterson is concerned about Jekyll's health and well-being, particularly as it pertains to the influence Mr. Hyde may have on him. Lastly, Utterson's suspicions about Hyde's character and intentions make him wary of the terms of the will that so heavily favors this enigmatic figure. Thus, Utterson's suspicions of Hyde also prompt him to discuss the will with Jekyll. Considering all these aspects, the discussion about the will is a complex one, driven by Utterson's professional responsibilities and his personal concerns for his friend.
When approaching a question like this, it is important to draw upon the specific content of the story to determine the motivations of a character. In this case, the will itself acts as a device to connect Utterson, Jekyll, and Hyde - and to bring to light the concerning elements of Hyde's influence over Jekyll. In summary, the excuse provided for Utterson's discussion about the will with Jekyll is multifactorial, involving legal, personal, and protective dynamics.