it sounds like he forgot and didn't think there'd be a fight as his entire house burned down since they let him pay late to put out a chimney fire before. Nothing in your quotations says that he chose not to pay it, only that he did not.

If he refused to pay at all, I'd see where y'all are coming from, but this is ridiculous. Why does it matter if the fee is paid before or after? Costs are still covered as long as the fee is paid.

To entirely refuse to put out a severe house fire is unethical, particularly if you've given reason for an individual to think you'll do so without pre-payment

And the quotes were used for emphasis, which I am aware is an improper use for them. it's quicker than typing out HTML.