With my heart beating like a heavy hammer of disordered action, I rose out of my chair, and stood with my hand upon the back of it, looking wildly at him…All the truth of my position came flashing on me; and its disappointments, dangers, disgraces, consequences of all kinds, rushed in in such a multitude that I was borne down by them and had to struggle for every breath I drew.
– Charles Dickens
Great Expectations, Chapter 39. This is the moment Pip finally realizes that the person who is helping him and is his benefactor is not Miss Havisham but convict Magwitch. As he comes face to face with the criminal, Pip’s shock at the revelation is emphasized by the simile of his heart “beating like a hammer.” He experiences a sense of shame because his gentleman status is built on less than honorable foundations.