Who said, "As you love me, Buck."?

The statement "As you love me, Buck." is significant and primarily reflects the bond between Buck and John Thornton, showcasing the deep emotional connection they share. John Thornton is a figure of love and loyalty in Buck's life and represents the ideal owner who genuinely cares for and respects him. This phrase highlights Thornton’s understanding of the loyalty and affection Buck has for him, which is the culmination of Buck's journey from a domesticated pet to a creature of instinct and survival.

Throughout the narrative, Buck experiences various relationships, but it is with Thornton that he finds true companionship and trust, making this statement emblematic of their significant relationship in the story. The other options represent characters that do not share this same level of emotional depth and connection with Buck, emphasizing the importance of Thornton's role in Buck's transformation and his ultimate understanding of love and loyalty.