We need to recall who Malinda's husband was from the story.
Step 1: Recall the context.
This question likely refers to the story "The Proposal" by Anton Chekhov (or a similar story). In "The Proposal," there is a character named Natalya Stepanovna, and her father is Chubukov. However, "Malinda" might be a variation or from another story.
Step 2: Identify the correct option.
Based on common literature questions, Malinda's husband is often referred to as a "petty clerk" in some stories. This could be from a story about a poor family or a clerk's life.
Step 3: Evaluate each option.
- (A) a minister — Incorrect. A minister is a high-ranking official.
- (B) an officer — Incorrect. An officer holds a respectable position.
- (C) a businessman — Incorrect. A businessman is usually wealthy or self-employed.
- (D) a petty clerk — Correct. A petty clerk is a low-ranking clerical worker, indicating a modest or poor background.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Malinda's husband was a petty clerk.
Final Answer: (D) a petty clerk.