To my mind, the most useful definition of sin, in the sacred writings, is that of the apostle Saint James, most practical of all the inspired writers, when he said: 'To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.' I knew quite clearly the 'good' to be done in this case.

Therefore no gratitude is due to me for failing to fall into the sin of omission.
"Also, my son, many who seem to deserve the gratitude of others, would be found not to deserve it, if the entire inward truth of motive could be fully revealed.
"With me it is well-nigh a passion that all good things should attain unto full completeness.
"It may be I was better able to give full understanding to your tale because, for love of a woman, I dwelt seven years in exile from this land, fearing lest my great love for her, which came to me all unsought, should--by becoming known to her--lead her young heart, as yet fresh and unawakened, to respond.

There was never any question of breaking my vows; and I hold not with love-friendships between man and woman, there where marriage is not possible.

They are, at best, selfish on the part of the man.

They keep the woman from entering into her kingdom.