Yes I agree on both points. Masturbation has been so overlaid with shame and something always to be repressed or denied that it offered him little relief from the outset. It seems there is no positive validation of Maurice's feelings to be found anywhere, no-one he can confide in, and only one acceptable way forward, as far as society is concerned, if he is to find any kind of *relief*, i.e. marriage. I don't think there is any mention anywhere of the availability of prostitutes, is there - although of course Maurice, would not have taken up that option.