Dealing with anger
Ravaux was deeply upset at the way he had been treated by the tenants. His kindness and patience were met with utter betrayal. To set things right, he had to channel his anger, even though he felt like punching someone. The landlord believed that a dispute with the tenants would not lead to a resolution.
The Taste Of Your Own Medicine
A family that could support itself so savagely and avoid rent for a year would most likely refuse any settlement. He decided that giving her a taste of her own medicine was the best thing to do.