This is a key event in the call of the wild. that winter, at dawson, buck performed another exploit, not so heroic, perhaps, but one that put his name many notches higher on the totem-pole of alaskan fame. this exploit was particularly gratifying to the three men; for they stood in need of the outfit which it furnished, and were enabled to make a long-desired trip into the virgin east, where miners had not yet appeared. it was brought about by a conversation in the eldorado saloon, in which men waxed boastful of their favorite dogs. where does this event fit in the plot’s structure? rising action falling action climax exposition

Rising Action

Explanation:

This event from "The Call of the Wild" by Jack London (1876–1916) leads the reader to climax. It is buildup to the climax of the story. Since it is NOT the most heroic exploit, so it cannot be regarded as story's climax.

The components of a plot in proper order are;

Exposition - It means introduction of main characters, setting, events, and other element of the work to the readers. Exposition usually ends when conflicts start to appear.

Rising Action - is introduction to the main conflicts of the plot/story creating suspense, interest, and tension in a narrative. Rising action is build-up to the climax of the narrative.

Climax - it is the turning point of a narrative work. It is the point of highest tension and drama. It is at this stage that action where solutions to the tensions appear.

Falling action is the resolution of all minor and major conflicts of the story resolve.

Resolution or denouement is the last part of the narrative/story before which all conflicts/tension have been resolved.

answer: do

the 'italicized phrase' is a noun clause that is used as a direct object.