Which BEST explains why the author refers to the "Puritanic code of law" in the first paragraph?

A) Hawthorne uses the reference to establish a forgiving and loving environment who greets the young woman.
B) Hawthorne uses the reference to ensure readers understand that heavenly and earthly justice do not differ.
C) Hawthorne uses the reference to highlight a setting immersed in strict religious principles and punishments.
D) Hawthorne uses the reference to illustrate the dominating authority of the town-beadle, in contrast to community religious leaders.