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Read the excerpt from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.

When we got about half way to St. Michael's, while the constables having us in charge were looking ahead, Henry inquired of me what he should do with his pass. I told him to eat it with his biscuit, and own nothing; and we passed the word around, "Own nothing;" and "Own nothing!" said we all.

What is Douglass’s purpose in this excerpt?

to describe the determination of his companions
to encourage readers to question authority
to persuade others to try new foods
to entertain readers with an exciting adventure

Douglass's purpose in this excerpt is to describe the determination of his companions.

Based on the excerpt, Douglass's purpose is to describe the determination of his companions. He emphasizes their defiance and resistance against the authorities, as they all agree to "own nothing" and take measures to hide their passes.

Douglass's purpose in this excerpt is to describe the determination of his companions. This can be inferred from the actions and words described in the passage. The fact that Henry asks Douglass what he should do with his pass suggests that they are trying to hide their passes to avoid being caught or hindered by the constables. The repetition of the phrase "Own nothing" further emphasizes their determination to not reveal any incriminating information. Therefore, the main purpose of this excerpt is to highlight the determination and resourcefulness of Douglass's companions in their efforts to escape or resist authority.