generosity of a woman's heart

"I will not speak"..."Wonderous strength and generosity of a woman's heart!" state Hester Prynne and Mr. Dimmesdale, respectively, on page 63. I was thoroughly impressed by Hester's refusal to reveal the identity of her lover. Although she was mercilessly punished for her "sins," she declined to allow the father of her child and the object of affections to be subjected to the same chastisement as she. Wow, what a love that must be! She is so steadfast. That's very admireable. However, it makes me hate Dimmesdale a little. What a douche! He refuses to get down off his highhorse and accept the consequences for what he's done. That's pretty lame. He does appreciate what Hester has done for him, though. He gets it right when he says "Wondrous strength and generosity of a woman's heart! She will not speak!" he's not just talking about any woman, or women in general; he's talking about his woman. At least he appreciates the dedication she has to him. I just wish he would man up and get down on the pillory with Hester!