"A private sin is not so prejudicial in this world, as a public indecency"

This quote by Miguel de Cervantes suggests that it is much better to keep one's sins personal instead of to make them public. He implies that a personal sin is not as harming to one's credibility as a public indecency. This might be interpreted as an alerting to be conscious of one's actions and to be aware of the consequences of making errors in public. It could also be viewed as a suggestion to be conscious of how one's actions can impact others. By keeping one's sins private, one can prevent the prospective shame and embarassment that can include a public indiscretion. Ultimately, this quote serves as a pointer to be mindful of one's actions and to hesitate before making a mistake in public.