Political philosophy: rebellion

v5:929

The clause in the Act of Parliament, passed the 19th of DECEMBER last, which ascertains the powers of the Commissioners, is in these words:

"Provided, that in order to encourage all well-affected persons in any of the said Colonies to exert themselves in suppressing the Rebellion therein, and to afford a speedy protection to those who are disposed to return to their duty, it shall and may be lawful to and for any person or persons, appointed and authorized by his Majesty, to grant a pardon or pardons to any number or description of persons, with such exceptions therefrom as shall seem fit and reasonable, by Proclamation in his Majesty' s name; to declare any Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, or any County, Town, Port, District, or place, in any Colony or Province, to be at the peace of his Majesty; and from and after the issuing of any such Proclamation in any of the aforesaid Colonies or Provinces, or if his Majesty shall be graciously pleased to signify the same by his Royal Proclamation, then, from and after the issuing of such Proclamation, this act, with respect to such Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, County, Town, or Port, District, or place, shall cease, determine, and be utterly void; and if any captures shall be made after the date and issuing of such Proclamation, or any ships or vessels, and their cargoes, belonging to the inhabitants of any such Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, County, Town, or Port, District, or place, or if any ships trading to or from such Colony or Province, Colonies or Provinces, respectively, the same shall be restored to the owners of such ships or vessels, upon claim being entered, and due proof made of their property therein; and the captors shall not be liable to any actions for seizing or detaining the said ships or vessels, or their cargoes, without proof being made that they had actual notice of such Proclamation having been issued."