Why did john bring flowers in the house?

At the beginning of Act II John brings his wife,
Elizabeth, flowers.  He tells her the flowers are to brighten the gloomy room, but
judging from the stilted interactions between the couple, the reader can tell that the
room is not the only thing that is gloomy.  As the two talk- in short, choppy sentences-
we learn that Elizabeth is still upset over Abigail.  John finally erupts telling her
that she "forgives and forgets nothing!" and that her "justice could freeze beer."  We
realize that he confessed his sins to Elizabeth, but that she has not forgiven his
transgressions.  Like a modern day couple, John hopes bringing his wife flowers will
help.