In January 2008, Wilkinson, Inc., acquired 20 percent of the outstanding common stock of Bremm, Inc., for $700,000. This investment gave Wilkinson the ability to exercise significant influence over Bremm. Bremm’s assets on that date were recorded at $3,900,000 with liabilities of $900,000. Any excess of cost over book value of the investment was attributed to a patent having a remaining use¬ ful life of 10 years.

In 2008, Bremm reported net income of $170,000. In 2009, Bremm reported net income of $210,000. Dividends of $70,000 were paid in each of these two years. What is the equity method balance of Wilkinson’s Investment in Bremm, Inc., at December 31,2009?

a. $728,000.

b. $748,000.

c. $756,000.

d. $776,000.