One such method might be as follows.Let the new law in question be enacted in the common form.But let its commencement be deferred to a distant period,suppose a year or two:let it then,at the end of that period,be in force,unless petitioned against,by persons of such a deion,and in such a number as might be supposed fairly to represent the sentiments of the people in general:persons,for instance,of the deion of those who at the time of the Union,constituted the body of electors.To put the validity of the law out of dispute,it would he necessary the fact upon which it was made ultimately to depend,should be in its nature too notorious to be controverted.To determine therefore,whether the conditions upon which the invalidation of it was made to depend,had been complied with,is what must be left to the simple declaration of some person or persons;for instance the King.I offer this only as a general idea:and as one amongst many that perhaps might be offered in the same view.It will not he expected that I should here answer objections,or enter into details.
95.I Comm.p.49.
96.With this note let no man trouble himself who is not used,or does not intend to use himself,to what are called metaphysical speculations:in whose estimation the benefit of understanding clearly what he is speaking of,is not worth the labour.
1.That may be said to be my duty to do (understand political duty)which you (or some other person or persons)have a right to have me made to do.Ithen have a DUTYtowards you:you have a RIGHT as against me.
2.What you have a right to have me made to do (understand a political right)is that which I am liable,according to law,upon a requisition made on your behalf,to be punished for not doing.