Ernie Electrician installed some recessed lighting over patient examination tables in a medical office. The lights were actually food warmers for restaurant use. Not only did the lights heat up the patients, but the electrical switch became extremely hot to the touch while the lights were engaged. A nurse suffered a minor burn on her fingers and was incapacitated to work for several days. One patient, who had been using Retin-A on her face, received a severe burn on her face. The doctor, nurse, and patient sued Ernie. The following questions arose during litigation. During negotiations before the trial, the doctor said that his nurse's injuries had cost him: her wages, her medical care, and the rent-a-nurse's wages totaling $840.00. When negotiations failed, Ernie's attorney attempted to offer the dollar amount stated by the doctor during negotiations to refute the $1000.00 the doctor now is claiming. The Judge should:
a. Permit the evidence because, even though negotiations were unsuccessful, the doctor should not now be allowed to claim a greater amount.
b. Preclude the evidence because the opponent is not allowed to use information provided during settlement negotiations.
c. Permit the evidence because it is relevant to the amount