Final answer:
The closest synonym for 'virtuous' is b. 'honest'; 'mercy' is not one of Benjamin Franklin's thirteen virtues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The closest synonym for the word virtuous is honest. Virtuous generally means having high moral standards, and honesty is a key component of moral integrity. Therefore, among the options given, honest is the word that most closely aligns with the concept of being virtuous.
As for Benjamin Franklin's thirteen virtues, mercy is not listed as one of them. Franklin's virtues are a set of moral guidelines he established for personal development. Some of Franklin's virtues include sincerity, temperance, and tranquility, among others. Hence, the correct answer to this question is C. mercy.