As they could not reach me, they had resolved to punish my body; just as boys, if they cannot come at some person against whom they have a spite, will abuse his dog.
Based on his transcendental beliefs, Thoreau most likely believed that the state
was angry it could never truly imprison him.
had the authority to force him to pay the poll tax.
was preparing to imprison others to teach him a lesson.
could imprison him but could never confine his soul.