7 June 1807

4

Letter V

Litigation - Prevent. Promot.

3. A third case that takes place not unfrequently, is that of a compromise. In this case, Mahar-shalal-hash-baz divided the plunder is the word.

The number of shares varies according to circumstances.

In the case which affords the largest number, the support afforded to Naboth has been not gratuitous, but mercenary.

1. Share the 1 st - the share of the destroying Angels.

2. Share the 2 d - David's share.

3. Share the 3 d: the share acquired according to stipulation by Naboth's supporter or supporters.

4. The share left to Naboth of and in his own vinyard, after distribution has been made of the other part, as above.

By a compromise previous to litigation, or at a premature stage, the destroying Angels would pro tanto be defrauded of their due.

Thus is that under the the technical system, almost always, the word compromise is an euphemism: misconception is as often the result of it. The supposition is that justice is done to each; and that each remains self-assured that what he has received is justice. The truth is - that what has taken place is oppression: oppression in the shape of extortion:- of extortion of which the power of Judge and C o has in every case been the instrument: and in the profit of which they have in many, and perhaps in most instances, received their share: only that in this case the extortion has not extended to the whole but has left a part untouched.

A compromise it is, if a compromise it must be called - such as that which has place between the passenger and the highwayman when the purse is yielded without a struggle. Purse and life being previously put into hotchpot, partition is thereupon made and without cost[?]: the purse is pocketed by the highwayman, the passenger goes off with his life.