Read the excerpt from "Elizabeth Blackwell." The next day Elizabeth visited an old family friend who had been practicing medicine for many years. When she told him of her intentions, Dr. Melton’s eyebrows nearly took leave of his head, but he quickly settled himself and said, "Well, that is a brilliant idea, Miss Blackwell, but clearly it is an impossible one."

Based on this excerpt, what can readers infer about women's careers during the mid-1800s?
A. Women were not permitted to work in any career of their choice.
B. Women were not permitted to work with men unless they were family friends.
C. Women had to practice medicine for more years than men had to practice.
D. Women had to settle for careers as nurses instead of doctors.