Why does Hester refuse to reveal her partner's sin? Why does Hester refuse to reveal her partner's sin?

I agree
that there are many components to 's refusal to reveal Arthur as the father of her child. One
which has not been mentioned but I think has merit is that she is hopeful they can resume their
relationship one day. It's clear that Hester never stops loving Arthur (though he does not
appear to share those sentiments in the face of his guilty conscience) and, like most women
would be, she is hopeful she can be with him again at some point in time. If she tells, there is
no chance of that ever happening.

Interestingly enough, I've always thought
there was a point in their journey when the town just might have accepted Hester and Arthur as a
couple withas their child. At the beginning, though, there is just too much for Hester to lose
by telling.