Which statement best summarizes the development of France’s relationship with the Continental army? France initially did not think the colonists could win, but after victories by the Continental army, it provided aid and signed a formal alliance. France signed a formal alliance with the Continental army and provided aid, but withdrew its aid following colonial losses. France provided aid from the beginning of the war and signed a formal alliance with the Continental army, but did not think the colonists could win. France provided aid to the Continental army from the beginning of the war, but later withdrew the aid before signing a formal alliance.