Avicorp has a $$10\mathrm{.}9$ million debt issue outstanding, with a $5\mathrm{.}9\%$ coupon rate. The debt has semi$-$annual coupons, the next coupon is due in six months, and the debt matures in five years. It is currently priced at $94\mathrm{.}91\%$ of par value.

a$.$ What is Avicorp's pretax cost of debt?

b$.$ If Avicorp faces a $35\%$ tax rate, what is its after$-$tax cost of debt? Note: Assume that the firm will always be able to utilize its full interest tax shield.