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"When the young woman - the mother of this child - stood fully revealed before the crowd, it seemed to be her first impulse to clasp the infant closely to her bosom: not so much by an impulse of motherly affection, as that she might conceal a certain token, which was wrought or fastened to her chest…On the breast of her gown, in fine red cloth, surrounded with an elaborate embroidery and fantastic flourishes …

…can therefore also be viewed as an instrument of God. Rather than an instrument of Satan, it is a holy brand that marks shame and ignominy. It was given to Hester as a means of regretting her sin and achieving salvation, and as the scarlet letter "A" rests on her heart, it mends instead of causing more damage. Its scarlet fire therefore exorcises Hester Prynne's personal demons, so that she can finally attain her peace.