“The plain rule is to do nothing in the dark, to be a party to nothing underhanded or mysterious, and never to put his foot where he cannot see the ground.”
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About this quote
It demands clear, honest action and refuses excuses or secretive shortcuts. If you cannot look someone in the eye or explain your steps, stop and shed light before you move. Use this rule as a practical test of integrity: choose what you can stand behind and avoid choices you cannot justify.
When to use it
- Before signing an agreement, pause and read every line—if anything feels hidden or unclear, don't sign until it's explained.
- When planning a project, map the risks and make decisions you can defend openly rather than cutting corners in private.
- If you're tempted to gossip or hide facts at work, refuse to be part of it; protect your reputation by staying transparent.
- Facing a risky choice? Stop, gather information, and only move forward when you can clearly see the consequences.