The idiom 'take exception to' means to object to something or to be offended by it. Thus, option C is correct.

'To draw a bead on' means to take careful aim at someone or something.

To move from pillar to post means to go from one place to another in a desperate search or to put in a lot of effort. In this context, it implies trying his best.

'Give a hand' means to help someone.

'Over head and ears' means completely or deeply.

'To take someone for a ride' means to deceive or cheat someone.

'To know the ropes' means to understand how to perform a particular job or task.

The phrase 'took cue' means to take a hint or signal from someone. Thus, option B is correct.

A 'damp squib' is something that is expected to be exciting but proves to be 'a disappointing result'.

The idiom 'A man of straw' means a man of no substance (a weak person).

'Blood ran cold' means to feel intense fear or shock (horrified).

'To burn one's fingers' means to suffer misfortune or loss (often financial) as a result of foolish interference.

Gave the game away means to reveal a secret unintentionally.

The idiom 'to cast aspersions' means 'to make unpleasant remarks' or criticisms about someone.

To eat one's words means to admit that one is wrong and 'withdraw her words'.

It means to be unreliable; to say one thing and do another.

This idiom means to suffer the bad consequences of one's bad actions or foolish conduct. Hence, the correct option is (D).

An open question is a matter or question that has not been settled and has no agreed-upon answer.

The idiom 'to put up with' means to tolerate or endure something unpleasant. Thus, option D is correct.

The idiom 'to call it a day' means to stop what you are doing because you do not want to do any more or think you have done enough. Thus, option A is correct.