2.  Accordingly, that my speech may proceed in due order, I apply myself to the question which arose first, that of cowardice.  For I cannot endure that any of those who watch with interest the success, or the contrary, of my efforts, should be put to confusion on my account, since it has pleased God that our affairs should be of some consequence to Christians, so I will by my defence relieve, if there be any such, those who have already suffered; for it is well, as far as possible, and as reason allows, to shrink from causing, through our sin or suspicion, any offence or stumbling-block to the community:  inasmuch as we know how inevitably even those who offend one of the little ones S. Matt. xviii. 6. will incur the severest punishment at the hands of Him who cannot lie.