It is morally praiseworthy to be honest only if one is honest out of respect for morality  Strictly speaking, ttherefore, Downing did not act in a manner worthy of such praise when he told the judge the truth about his business partner ' s fraudulence
The moral praiseworthiness of an action can be judged only according to standards that refer to the circumstances of the person acting.
 Downing was motivated by concern for his own well-being---even though what he did was certainly honest