She Started It
Bellingham sees Hester and makes lecherous comments about her to Dimmesdale, who defends her honor. Bellingham mentions to Dimmesdale that Hester can legally be married in a moth, as her husband will have been missing for 14 years. A mysterious stranger who calls himself Roger Chillingworth comes to town and witnesses Pearl beating another young girl with the ladle she just purchased, causing a near riot until Dimmesdale intervenes, commanding the people to treat Pear as if she were his own daughter. (If You Know What I Mean)
As Hester attempts to send Pearl home, Pearl blames the other girl for the fight and badgers Hester to explain her past. Hester refuses, angering Pearl, who declares she won’t stay in the dark forever. (She Started It)
Performed by Nili Bassman
