The stockholders' equity of Howell Company at July 31, 2010 is presented below:
Common stock, par value $20, authorized 400,000 shares;
issued and outstanding 160,000 shares $3,200,000
Paid-in capital in excess of par 160,000
Retained earnings 650,000
$4,010,000
On August 1, 2010, the board of directors of Howell declared a 15% stock dividend on common stock, to be distributed on September 15th. The market price of Howell's common stock was $35 on August 1, 2010, and $38 on September 15, 2010. What is the amount of the debit to retained earnings as a result of the declaration and distribution of this stock dividend?
a. $800,000.
b. $840,000.
c. $912,000.
d. $600,000.