What absurd things these are. George Flack already felt tired after talking with Thomas Yates this whole time, his mouth dry and parched. And now, George was thinking, what would he have to do to show his sincerity?
"Well, tell me then, what should I do to prove my sincerity? How many sincere things do I have to do to get you to forgive me? And what difference will it make when you forgive me?"
The first part of the question sounded reasonable, but the last part, "and what difference will it make," somewhat reignited Thomas's anger. Thomas thought he had already made a concession by coming here, even though he had left himself no way out.
It was like pointing George Flack to a path, telling him what to do, but the things George just said completely disregarded Thomas. It was as if Thomas was seeking a truce, but George took it for granted.
