Wesley Corpus

It is plain from all this, that you are bound upon your oaths to present all vice and immorality, as well as other crimes, that fall within your knowledge, because they are expressly given you in charge. And this you are to do, not only when evidence isoffered before you by the information of others, but with regard to all such offences as you or any of you are able, of your own personal knowledge, to present; all which you have sworn to do impartially, without fear, favour, or affection.” I leave it now with all reasonable men to consider, how few Grand Jurors perform this; and, consequently, what multi tudes of them, throughout the nation, fall under the guilt of wilful perjury ! 8. The author proceeds: “I shall next address myself to you that are Constables. And to you I must needs say, that if you know your duty, it is no thanks to us that are Justices. For the oath we usually give you is so short, and in such general terms, that it leaves with you no manner of instruction in the par ticulars of the office to which you are sworn. But that which ought to be given you, recites part of your duty in the following words:-- “You shall do your best endeavour, that rogues, vagabonds, and night-walkers be apprehended; and that the statutes made for their punishment be duly put in execution. You shall have a watchful eye to such as shall keep any house or place where any unlawful game is used; as also to such as shall frequent such places, or shall use any unlawful game there or elsewhere. You shall present all and every the offences contrary to the sta tutes made to restrain the tippling in inns, alehouses, and other victualling houses, and for repressing of drunkenness. You shall once in the year, during your office, present all Popish recusants. You shall well and duly execute all precepts and warrants to you directed.