In a kind of dull fierce passion he had made up his mind to clear himself before the world, to rend to tatters his garments of romance, to snap his fingers at the stars and destiny and such-like deluding toys, to stand a young Ajax defying the thunderbolts.

Here came the first check.
"If they found out as how he'd done time, they'd find out for why," said Bill, cocking his head earnestly.
As Paul, engaged in sombre thought, made no reply, Silas turned away, his hands uplifted in supplication, and prayed aloud.

He had sinned in giving way to his anger.

He prostrated himself before the divine vengeance.

If this was his apportioned punishment, might God give him meekness and strength to bear it.