The phrase "why providence should thus convey about time" suggests a belief in the Christian theological concept of providence. In this context, providence refers to the belief in the active intervention of a divine power (God) in the affairs of the world and the guidance of human lives to ultimate goals. The reference to providence may indicate a religious perspective and the belief that time as a phenomenon is connected to divine purposes or plans.
The use of the phrase "why providence should thus convey about time" also suggests a sense of wonder and contemplation about the nature of time's passage, fate, and the influence of the divine on temporal matters. The story likely takes place in a historical and cultural setting where religious faith and belief in providence were prevalent.