the scarlet letter, symbol 24

Chapter 9 


"Then, after long search into the minister’s dim interior, and turning over many precious materials, in the shape of high aspirations for the welfare of his race, warm love of souls, pure sentiments, natural piety, strengthened by thought and study, and illuminated by revelation,—all of which invaluable gold was perhaps no better than rubbish to the seeker,—he would turn back, discouraged, and begin his quest towards another point." This is right before Roger Chillingworth looks at Mr. Dimmesdale A painted on his chest when he's asleep. I think Roger Chillingworth was a very smart person, who could read people. He didn't have else to do in New England because no one knew him. He didn't have to care about anyone, all he ever did was to seek for the other sinner, Pearl's dad. Since he is a person who easily read others, he must have seen the hidden relationship between Hester and Mr. Dimmesdale. He must also have seen that Mr. Dimmesdale very often holds his hand over his heart, like he hides something.