Explanation:

- When the Board of Directors fails to appoint the first auditor(s) of a company, the responsibility shifts to the shareholders.

- Shareholders must then appoint the first auditor(s) at a general meeting by passing an ordinary resolution.

- Option 1: a general meeting

This is the correct option. "General meeting" refers to any meeting of shareholders, not limited to annual general meetings.

- Option 2: first annual general meeting

This is incorrect because the first auditor(s) have to be appointed before the first AGM.

- Option 3: statutory meeting

Statutory meetings are only required by some companies and not all; not related to auditor appointment.

- Option 4: annual general meeting

Annual general meeting is not specifically the meeting where first auditors are appointed if the Board fails.

- So, the correct answer is Option 1: a general meeting.