E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Conscience.
Have you the conscience to [demand such a price]. Can your conscience allow you to [demand such a price]. Conscience is the secret monitor within man which accuses or excuses him, as he does what he thinks to be wrong or right.
1
In all conscience. As, “And enough too, in all conscience.” Meaning that the demand made is as much as conscience would tolerate without accusing the person of actual dishonesty; to the verge of that fine line which separates honesty from dishonesty.
2
My conscience! An oath. I swear by my conscience.
3
Court of Conscience. Established for the recovery of small debts in London and other trading places. These courts have been superseded by county courts.
