Answer:
Any type of writing which presents a strong argument always develops its ideas including relevant data and facts about the topic. This is a way to support the argument, and makes it coherent and clear to understand. This excerpt is an example of a strong argument because it includes relevant information about what were Mary Kay Ash's techniques to beat her competition and succeed in her business.
A direct object is a noun, pronoun or group of words serving as the receiving end of an action. So in this case,
Settlers (answer!)
This should be the answer as settlers are at the receiving end of the protection from the judge! :)
I think it's "scolded in a mild way" according to the context. Sorry if I'm wrong
