Question

which of these statements is best supported by the passage below (paragraph 1)?
at least everyone knows, the citizens can always count on a refusal. but now the strange fact is that without the refusal one simply cannot go along, yet at the same time these official occasions designed to receive the refusal are by no means a formality. i was there last time as usual, and then one returns, if not exactly strengthened or happy, nevertheless not disappointed or sad. these things i do not have to ask the opinion of anyone else, i feel them in myself, as everyone does, nor do i have any great desire to find out how these things are connected.
the townspeople dont mind the refusal because theres nothing they really want.
the people of the town have come to expect—and even rely on—the refusal.
the townspeople blindly follow the orders of the government without questioning.
the narrator prefers to mind his own business and not pay attention to the ceremony or the refusal.

Explanation:

The passage states that the citizens can always count on a refusal. This implies they have come to expect and rely on it. The other options are not well - supported by the given text.

Answer:

The people of the town have come to expect—and even rely on—the refusal.