Read the paragraph from the section "A Deadly Feud Eventually Arose." Such was the daunting rival that Ichabod Crane had to face. Considering all things, a stronger man than he would have shrunk from the competition, and a wiser man would have despaired. He had, however, a happy mixture of pliability and persistence in his nature. Though he bent, he never broke, and though he bowed beneath the slightest pressure, the moment it went away – he carried his head as high as ever.

Which phrase from the paragraph helps you understand that Ichabod Crane did not give up easily, despite his peaceful nature?

A
the daunting rival
B
shrunk from the competition
C
pliability and persistence
D
bowed beneath the slightest pressure