Religious insincerity is a recurring idea in the story. This distinction between the religiously sincere and insincere is seen most obviously in the comparison of Mr. Weston and Mr. Hatfield. Agnes describes Mr. Hatfield as being showy and concerned only with the members of his congregation who are rich or have good names. From Agnes' descriptions of the man's treatment of the poor and sick in his congregation, he appears thoughtless and self-centered.