Read the passage. Then, select the text that best helps you understand the meaning of esteem.
Soong Mei-ling, also known as Madame Chiang Kai-shek, was a Chinese political figure and a first lady of the Republic of China. Born in Shanghai, China, on March 5, 1898, Soong Mei-ling split her education between schools in the United States and China. As first lady, she introduced her husband, President Chiang Kai-shek, to Western culture and ideas. Likewise, she served as her husband's emissary, or spokesperson, to the West. During a visit to the United States in 1943, Soong Mei-ling became the second woman to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress. The trip earned her the esteem of the American public, who praised her passion and determination, and she raised billions of dollars in aid for her country.
What is the meaning of esteem as used in the passage?
the full attention
money provided by an organization or government
an official order to do something
respect and admiration