In this passage from “the minister’s black veil,” the minister’s fiancée asks about the black veil. what is the meaning of his answer? from “the minister’s black veil” “what grievous affliction hath befallen you,” she earnestly inquired, “that you should thus darken your eyes forever? ” “if it be a sign of mourning,” replied mr. hooper, “i, perhaps, like most other mortals, have sorrows dark enough to be typified by a black veil.” “but what if the world will not believe that it is the type of an innocent sorrow? ” urged elizabeth. “beloved and respected as you are, there may be whispers that you hide your face under the consciousness of secret sin. for the sake of your holy office, do away this scandal! ”