If bonds are issued initially at a premium, and the effective$-$interest method of amortization is used, which of the following will be true

of interest expense in the earlier years?

It will be the same as if the straight$-$line method were used.

It will be greater than the amount of the interest payments.

It will be less than if the straight$-$line method were used.

It will be greater than if the straight$-$line method were used.