What is Dimmesdale's decision in response to Hester's plea that they leave the colony? Quote a line.

• A. He is happy and optimistic. Dimmesdale gazed into Hester's face with a look in which hope and joy shone out.
• B. He decides to stay and face his duties.
• C. He plans to betray Hester.
• D. He falls into doubt.

Answer: (A)

Dimmesdale’s choice in this moment is driven by a sense of duty over personal comfort. When Hester asks them to leave the colony, he weighs a fresh start against the obligations he bears within the community and the possibility of facing the truth about his sin. He resolves to stay and confront the consequences rather than flee, which shows how his inner conflict is tempered by responsibility and the belief that some truths must be faced publicly. A line that captures this stance is: “I must stay here and face my duties.” This reflects his decision to remain in the colony to work through his guilt and to uphold his role, even at great personal cost. The other options read the moment as triumphal, treacherous, or doubt-filled, but the text presents his reaction as a deliberate commitment to responsibility rather than an escape or a moment of happiness.