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"The victim was forever on the rack; it needed only to know the spring that controlled the engine; and the physician knew it well!"(127)

This quote symbolizes Dimmesdale's means for salvation. It is clear to the reader that Dimmesdale had committed a sin that was very much against his vocation, and would have serious consequences if discovered. At the moment, only Chillingworth has any thought that Dimmesdale might be the adulterer. Known for being relentless, Chillingworth is likely to never give Dimmesdale a break until he lets the truth out. In that case, salvation is represented, in how Dimmesdale could further lie his way out if he chose to, which would bring yet another mark up against him. In that way, Dimmesdale could save his person, but not his soul. Either that, or he would tell the truth, which would redeem him of his sin, but would not save himself from the long road of ridicule ahead. The name of the chapter this quote comes in is called the interior of a heart, and it is up to Dimmesdale to decide whether he loves himself or God the most.

Which path will Dimmesdale choose?

"A pure hand needs no glove to cover it!"(143)

This quote comes in towards the end of the twelfth chapter. At this point, a sexton finds a glove on the scaffold where Hester stood, which belonged to Dimmesdale. He brought the glove to Dimmesdale, and cited the following quote. At this point, when Chillingworth had found him, he had no choice but to admit his sin. The sexton discovered this sin, and decided to make it know to Dimmesdale that he was caught. He claimed that only the devil would have a need to be on the scaffold, and that if Dimmesdale were as pure as a priest should be, he had no reason to hide his purity with a glove. This quote references Dimmesdale's salvation. It alludes to the two paths he could take, as referenced in the previous quote. Yet, Danforth seems to be denying himself in a way, as he reacted fearfully in Chillingworth's presence, rather than willing to repent, and he denies his act the the sexton when he says, "'No,' answered the minister, 'I had not heard of it'"(144).

What might become of Dimmesdale?