In chapter 8, Hester has to face Bellingham, Wilson, Chillingworth, and Dimmesdale. They are gathered to decide whether Hester (someone who has not behaved according to the teachings of God) should be allowed to keep her child. Hester gives good arguments in her defense, and in her desperation, she asks Reverend Dimmesdale to intercede in her behalf. He does so, and she is able to keep Pearl.
