[168-182v]

31 December 1807

Abstract

A view of the parcitulars, in respect of which the Judicial function is exercised by the House of Lords, [...?] of being [...?] with the functions of general superintendence, in this extent above indicatd, as belonging to it has been already taken. But, under the apprehension of awaiting those jealousies which are so easily [...?], or of overloading that [...?] which is so rarily overloaded, this part of the item is for the present at least, put aside.

What on this occasion ought never to be out of mind, is that, as to whatever regards the superior[?] authority of the House of Lords in matter of judicature, the [...?] practice whatsoever may be its effects, was in its origin, the more fortuitous result of a control for power, [...?] two co-ordinate authorities, the result of any thing rather than a value and comprehensive and concerted plan, directed to the ends of justice.

most satisfactory demonstrated /and it may be seen/, as well as clearly deployed, in the intelligent and interesting preface, prefixed by Mr. Hargrave to his edition of the workof Lord Hale in the jurisdiction of the Lords House.

/Fighting in the dark with weapons composed of the number[?] of perpetually inconsistent[?] precedents,/

/This want of design and consequently of congruity is no more than might have been anticipated by a reflection on the natural course of human affairs:/