Question

Mitchell said to me, "That man from Alabama, one wanted you to ride for him, he come askin' me 'bout you. Came to the stables earlier."

I stopped my brushing and peered across the horses at Mitchell. "Did? What he want?"

Mitchell kept on brushing. "Wanted t' know if you were on your own or if you was debted t' Mister Edward."

"What'd you tell him?"

"Told him I didn't know your business. Told him too, he wanna know your business, he best be talkin' t' you."

"My daddy's dead set against my racing that grey or any other horse he doesn't approve of."

"Well, s'pose he got his reasons."

"Said he doesn't want me hurt."

Mitchell grunted.

—The Land,
Mildred D. Taylor

What is the main purpose of this dialogue?

to slow down the pace of the text
to give detailed information about the stables
to show what Paul and Mitchell are thinking
to suggest that a new situation is developing

Answer 1

The main purpose of this dialogue is **to suggest that a new situation is developing**. The conversation reveals that someone from Alabama is inquiring about the protagonist's ability to race, indicating a potential opportunity or conflict related to racing that may impact the protagonist's relationship with their father and the broader storyline.