Question

Read the excerpt from A Story of the Red Cross.

The conditions were so new to them that it was a relief to meet persons who had seen such things before. We were asked not only to act with them, but to assume charge of the administration of relief. This, of course, we would not do, but that we would meet with, counsel, and aid them in every way in our power, is needless to affirm. That we did do this, through every day of our stay of three months, not only our own conviction, but the unasked and unexpected testimony of both Galveston and the Legislature of the State of Texas, go to assure.

Why does the author most likely include this interaction?

to emphasize Clara’s mission to assist rather than control
to highlight Clara’s talent for public speaking
to show why Clara asked politicians for financial support
to illustrate how resilient people are in the face of danger

Answer 1

to emphasize Clara’s mission to assist rather than control

The passage shows they refused to assume full administrative control and instead offered counsel and aid, highlighting a supportive, not commanding, role.