Page:A Vindication of Natural Society - Burke (1756).djvu/96

 I just mentioned, to be most speedily decided, frequently exercises the Wit of Successions of Lawyers, for many Generations. Multa virûm volvens durando sæcula vincit. But the Question concerning a Man's Life, that great Question in which no Delay ought to be counted tedious, is commonly determined in Twenty-four Hours at the utmost. It is not to be wondered at, that Injustice and Absurdity should be inseparable Companions.

Ask of Politicians the End for which Laws were originally designed; and they will answer, that the Laws were designed as a Protection for the Poor and Weak, against the Oppression of the Rich and Powerful. But surely no Pretence can be so ridiculous; a Man might as well tell me he has taken off my Load, because he has changed the Burthen. If the poor Man is not able to support his Suit, according to the vexatious and expensive manner established in civilized Countries, has not