Chapter I. On the Lawfulness of Conjugal Intercourse

That conjugal intercourse is lawful in itself, or objectively, is clear both from Sacred Scripture (Gen. 1:28; 1 Cor. 7:3; Heb. 13:4) and from Canon Law (can. 1081, § 2 and 1111), and from the fact that it is a means ordained by God for propagating the human race. But in order that intercourse here and now be honorable or lawful, it is required: 1. that there be absent an impediment which forbids it; 2. that there be absent a harm to be feared which ought to be guarded against and therefore forbids intercourse; 3. that it be done from a right end; 4. in the due place and manner. I judge it more practical to discuss the absence of impediments and of harm in the last place.