The Unknown; A Play in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Mrs. Wharton.

Perhaps not. [With a faint smile.] We must thank God that we’re not likely to be put in such a position. Why did you ask me that?

Sylvia.

I was wondering what one should do if one could only rescue somebody from terrible danger by committing a great sin. Do you think one ought to do it or not?

Mrs. Wharton.

My dear, you haven’t the right to offend God for the sake of anyone in the world.

Sylvia.

Not even for the sake of anyone you loved?

Mrs. Wharton.

Surely not, my dear. And no one who loved you would wish you for a moment to do a wicked thing for his sake.