RIGHT, n. Conformity to the will of God, or to his law, the...
2. Conformity to human laws, or to other human standard of truth, propriety or justice.
I have always been most obedient when most taxed with disobedience. But my right hand is not the right hand of Melinda. The right I revere is not the right adored by sycophants ; the Jus vagum, the capricious command of princes or ministers. I follow the law of God (what is Laid down by him for the rule of my conduct) when I follow the LAW of human nature; which, without any human testimony, we know must proceed from God: and upon these are founded the rights of man ; or what is ordered for man. I revere the Constitution and constitutional laws of England; because they are in conformity with the laws of God and nature: and upon these are founded the rational rights of Englishmen. If princes or ministers, or the corrupted sham representatives of a people, order, command, or lay down any thing contrary to that which is ordered, commanded, or laid down by God, human nature, or the constitution of this government; I will still hold fast by the higher authorities. If the meaner authorities are offended, they can only destroy the body of the individual; but can never affect the right, or that which is ordered by their superiors.
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