This short story explores superficiality and hypocritical nature of Puritan society. While speculating as to what horrific crime the minister must have committed, the townspeople overlook their own crimes, both large and small. The minister becomes someone who is readily called in times of need, but completely avoided in times of happiness. They avoid him, only because of a simple veil – and in doing so, demonstrate how shallow and unappreciative their faith truly is.