Final answer:
Lassiter's behavior on the walk home was influenced by his extreme fatigue from the journey, his emotional distress over Jane's herds and financial state, and their complex relationship marked by deceit and betrayal experienced by Jane.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lassiter's feelings and behavior towards Jane Withersteen on their walk home can be attributed to a few factors that are hinted at throughout the passages provided. Firstly, Lassiter was extremely fatigued due to his long journey of one hundred and twenty miles which involved a lot of climbing on foot, all performed within three days. This physical exhaustion could have significantly contributed to his sad and preoccupied mood. Secondly, Lassiter was dealing with profound sadness and preoccupation related to the happenings around Jane's white herd and her precarious financial situation, which he might have felt responsible for or powerless against. Lastly, the overarching theme of the context is the emotional turmoil both characters are experiencing, which includes Jane's encounter with deceit and betrayal, adding to the tension and complexity of their relationship. This blend of fatigue, emotional distress, and a sense of responsibility and care for Jane's well-being could explain why Lassiter displayed a mood that could be interpreted as hateful towards Jane.