When Rev. Dimmesdale speaks, what does it affect, or "cause to vibrate" in the audience? What does Hester do? What does the "bitter but wholesome cup" presented to her lips allude to?

The quote goes,

"The young pastor’s voice was tremulously sweet, rich, deep, and broken. The feeling that it so evidently manifested, rather than the direct purport of the words, caused it to vibrate within all hearts..."

Dimmesdale has a voice that commands the audience to listen and take note. It isn't so much in words rather than in his tone. Hester is moved but refuses to give up Dimmesdale's name. Good thing for him!

The "bitter wholesome" statement alludes to Hester confessing her sin, and name her lover. Although hard at first the wholesome truth will set her free.