The symbolic imagery continues: having laid aside his hat of fanaticism, Charles looks away from the doctor, who represents cynicism, to the watercolor, a wistful symbol of his wife and of lost innocence. The imagery enhances his statement that he is acting for the protection of his wife. In the word "owed" there are unspoken layers of meaning, suggesting not merely a husband's natural concern to protect his wife, but the emotional debt that Charles has incurred in their marriage through his pursuit of material interests.