The Scarlet Letter

On one of those ugly nights, which we have faintly hinted at,

but forborne to picture forth, the minister started from his

chair. A new thought had struck him. There might be a moment's

peace in it. Attiring himself with as much care as if it had

been for public worship, and precisely in the same manner, he

stole softly down the staircase, undid the door, and issued

forth.