The speaker expresses a conflicted view on a character's violent actions, recognizing that while the character may have justified reasons for shooting highwaymen, leaving a man dead by the roadside is inexcusable. There’s an acknowledgment that the character, Vidal, is morally flawed and could have acted with greater compassion. Nonetheless, the speaker feels frustrated that this cruel act may lead others to label Vidal as heartless and terrible.

This perception of judgment weighs heavily on the speaker, who is aware of the harsh conclusions that society may draw regarding Vidal's character. The tension between recognizing someone's brutality and wanting to shield them from public scorn is palpable, illustrating a complex moral landscape where the desire for reputation conflicts with genuine behavior. Overall, the passage reflects on the themes of morality, reputation, and the ambiguity of human actions.