I believe the answer is ethics.
Authority & logic don't make sense in this case. The only aspect I see that appeals to the readers' emotions would be the use of the word solemnly, but this text was concise and solid.
Ethics is a branch of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong conduct. The text shows that the writers intend to advocate their independence as being only morally acceptable.
The answer would be first one. Comment if you would like me to explain.
THE STRANGER fills the frogs belly with quail shot.
The title of the book is 'The celebrated jumping frog of Calaveras county'.
Smiley bet with a stranger that his frog can beat any other frog and the stranger agreed to go into competition with him. Smiley lost the competition, because unknown to him the stranger has filled his frog with quail shot when he went to the stream to catch a frog for the stranger.
The answer is D. it has the most neutral connotation