Read the following excerpt from a speech made by a national leader during wartime:
It has been a difficult few weeks. Progress has been slow.
But there have been promising signs. I encourage you not
to look at what has been, but what is to come, because
with your dedication at home and our soldiers' dedication
in the field, things are beginning to turn around.
Which is one likely purpose of the speech, based on the excerpt above?
A. To explain a difficult decision
B. To provide hope for citizens
C. To challenge citizens who oppose the war
D. To persuade citizens to sacrifice more