THE LAWS OF ENGLAND. 341 



&quot; principes perpetui;&quot; because as bishop Gardiner 

 said in a bad sense, that he would be bishop an 

 hundred years after his death, in respect of the long 

 leases he made : so lawgivers are still kings and 

 rulers after their decease, in their laws. But this 

 work, shining so in itself, needs no taper. For the 

 safety and convenience thereof, it is good to consider, 

 and to answer those objections or scruples which 

 may arise or be made against this work. 



Obj. I. That it is a thing needless ; and that the 

 law, as it now is, is in good estate comparable to any 

 foreign law ; and that it is not possible for the wit 

 of man, in respect of the frailty thereof, to provide 

 against the incertainties and evasions, or omissions 

 of law. 



Resp. For the comparison with foreign laws, it is 

 in vain to speak of it ; for men will never agree 

 about it. Our lawyers will maintain for our muni 

 cipal-laws ; civilians, scholars, travellers, will be of 

 the other opinion. 



But certain it is, that our laws, as they now 

 stand, are subject to great uncertainties, and variety 

 of opinion, delays, and evasions : whereof ensueth, 



1. That the multiplicity and length of suits is 

 great. 



2. That the contentious person is armed, and the 

 honest subject wearied and oppressed. 



3. That the judge is more absolute ; who, in 

 doubtful cases, hath a greater stroke and liberty. 



4. That the chancery courts are more filled, the 

 remedy of law being often obscure and doubtful. 



