What can be identified as the author's purpose in the following statement by chief seattle? "the great, and i presume also good, white chief sends us word that he wants to buy our lands but is willing to allow us to reserve enough to live on comfortably. this indeed appears generous, for the red man no longer has rights that he need respect, and the offer may be wise, also, for we are no longer in need of a great country."

He wants his people to accept the deal presented to them by the "white chief."- he keeps on persuading the people that this is a good deal. the chief is being generous and still thinks of them on how they will live comfortably. it is a wise offer but the chief still thinks of the people

Explanation: hope this helps :)

what he said above me         look up that's the answer

answer; having the power of reprieve means being able to release people from punishment;