Wrench Co. issued $5,000,000 of convertible 5-year bonds on July 1, 2017. The bonds provide for 6% interest payable semiamuially on January 1 and July 1. The discount in connection with the issue was $120,000, which is being amortized monthly on a straight-line basis. The bonds are convertible after one year into 15 shares of Wrench Co. $1 par value common stock for each $1,000 of bonds. On October 1, 2019, $600,000 of bonds were turned in for conversion into common stock. Interest has been accrued monthly and paid as due. At the time of conversion, any accrued interest on bonds being converted is paid in cash.

a. What is the amount recorded to Paid in capital in excess of par value for common stock?
b. What is total interest expense recorded as of October 31, 2019 (both discount amortization and cash interest)?