Douglass meets Sandy Jenkins in the forest. Sandy gives him a root which he claims will protect him from the wrath of slaveholders. Douglass reluctantly takes it.
What shall I do? If I return to master Covey I will most certainly be whipped, but if I stay here I will starve to death.
I don't believe it. How will a simple thing like this protect me from Covey?
Alright, I suppose I shall take it.
Take this root and carry it upon your right side. It will protect you from slaveholders whiplash.
Just take it. It will do you no harm, if no good.
Oh no, what shall I do?
So you are back, are you? You made a mistake. Now you shall be punished.
Wham! Take that!
Covey, I will stand this no longer. You have treated me terribly. Fight me to the death!
Douglass fights Covey after being exasperated and angry with the way Covey had treated him. Covey is scared and isn't ready for the fight.
Covey loses the fight to Douglass. He promises not to whip Douglass ever again. Douglass has renowned spirit and determination.
P-P-Please don't hurt me anymore. I promise to treat you with respect. I will not whip you again.
Fine, I shall stop. But if you ever dare to touch me again, you will receive this wrath again.
I am a slave physically, but not mentally. I will fight, work hard, and set my sights on freedom.