Question

Why did the poet said 'I have something to expiate'

Answer 1

The poet says so as he was regretful of the task done by him of killing the harmless snake with a log. He says that now he has a thing to make amends and repent......

Answer 2

The poet realises that he has sinned by throwing a log of wood at the snake. The snake was his guest and sought his hospitality. He has to atone for his pettiness. He can do so only by 'crowning him again ' which is his 'due' now. He has missed a chance with one of the Lords of life but will not do so again.