Page:Ta Tsing Leu Lee (1810).pdf/93

 The crimes here arranged and distributed under ten heads, being distinguished from others by their enormity, are always punished with the utmost rigour of the law; and, when the offence is capital, it is excepted from the benefit of any act of general pardon; being likewise, in each case, a direct violation of the ties by which society is maintained, they are expressly enumerated in the introductory part of this code, that the people may learn to dread, and to avoid the same.

No clause to this section.

I. The Privilege of Imperial Blood and Connections.—Because the members of the august family of the Sovereign, who rules by the appointment of Heaven, are entitled to peculiar reverence in the administration of the laws with regard to them; therefore, this privilege shall extend to all the relations of His Imperial Majesty, who are descended from the same ancestors; to all the relations in the first, second, third, and fourth degrees of His Imperial Majesty's mother and grandmother; to all the relations of His Imperial Majesty's consort, the Empress, within the first, second, and third degrees; and, lastly, to all the relations of the consort of the hereditary Prince, within the first and second degrees only.

II. The Privilege of long Service.—This class comprehends all those ancient servants of the crown, who are zealously attached and have been honourably distinguished.—Such persons are entitled to privilege, because the Emperor has exalted them, and because the length of their services is a testimony of their unalterable fidelity.

III. The Privilege of illustrious Actions.—Those are entitled to privilege under this class, who pursue the enemy to the distance of 10,000 lee, cut off the head of the general of the hostile army, tear down