One by one they were conquered by one protective argument: 'I am free to do as I like.

I am my own mistress; and I am doing nothing that is wrong.

Even if it is unconventional, what of that?
God knows there are enough conventions in the world that are wrong, hopelessly, unalterably wrong.

After all, who are the people who are most bound by convention?
Those who call themselves "smart!" If Convention is the god of the smart set, then it is about time that honest people chose another!' * * * * * Leonard received the letter at breakfast-time.

He did not give it any special attention, as he had other letters at the same time, some of which were, if less pleasant, of more immediate importance.