He was preparing a sermon for Election Day, I believe.
Dimmesdale escapes Chillingworth by revealing his sin publicly during the Election Day procession, thus freeing himself from Chillingworth's hold over him. By confessing and acknowledging his guilt before the townspeople, Dimmesdale is able to gain his redemption and break free from Chillingworth's psychological torment.
Arthur Dimmesdale was created in 1850.
Pastor John Wilson, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, and Roger Chillingworth.
Mr. Wilson, Dimmesdale and Chillingworth
Chillingworth reminds dimmesdale of his sin and is party for the reason that he confesses and assends to heaven. He causes pain in the life of dimmesdale
Roger Chillingworth wants revenge on Reverend Dimmesdale for having an affair with Hester Prynne. He seeks to torment Dimmesdale as he believes Dimmesdale is partly responsible for the shame and suffering that Hester endured. Chillingworth aims to expose Dimmesdale's guilt and hypocrisy.
Pastor John Wilson, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, and Roger Chillingworth.
Chillingworth moves in with Dimmesdale under the pretext of providing medical care, as Dimmesdale's health is deteriorating. However, Chillingworth's real intention is to further torment Dimmesdale by exacerbating his guilt and inner turmoil over his affair with Hester Prynne. It allows Chillingworth to closely observe and manipulate Dimmesdale, ultimately seeking revenge for the betrayal.
Chillingworth discovers Dimmesdale's secret sin when he sees a mark in the shape of an "A" on the sleeping Dimmesdale's chest. This confirms his suspicions that Dimmesdale is the father of Hester Prynne's daughter, Pearl.
Some of the clues that Dimmesdale is Pearl's father include their physical resemblance, Pearl's strong connection and recognition of Dimmesdale, Dimmesdale's guilt and emotional reaction towards Pearl, and hints dropped by other characters such as Hester and Chillingworth. The reveal is confirmed towards the end of the novel by both Hester and Dimmesdale.
Chillingworth wants revenge on Dimmesdale and wants to continue tormenting him. He sees Dimmesdale's public confession as a potential end to his suffering and manipulation over him. Chillingworth sees Dimmesdale's confession as a threat to his power and control over the situation.