He was still gazing at the distant quarry, and I think he was affected by that sight.

I assured him that I was far from advising him to do anything so cruel.

I am convinced he had always doubted the soundness of my principles, because he turned on me swiftly as though he had been on the watch for a lapse from the straight path.
"Then what do you mean?
That I should pretend!" "No! What nonsense! It would be immoral.

I may however tell you that if I had to make a choice I would rather do something immoral than something cruel.

What I meant was that, not believing in the efficacy of the interference, the whole question is reduced to your consenting to do what your wife wishes you to do.