Boaz’ desire for secrecy was to avoid any gossip, or worse, an open scandal in the community. But in view of everything that has preceded, his actions do arouse suspicions in the minds of readers who are very familiar with the opposite situation—where subterfuge is necessary in order to cover up an illegitimate relationship and to avoid a court case. Thus a footnote explaining his motivation here may be required.

Source: Wendland 1987, p. 180.