The freedom of speech and writing upon public affairs, considered; with an historical view of the Roman imperial laws against libels, as violations of majesty, or lesser offences. The nature and use of torture among the Romans and modern Europeans. The bringing of the rack into the Tower, where it remains, for a beginning of the civil laws in England. The different treatment of libels there. The origin, legal and assumed jurisdiction, severities, subservience to arbitrary power, and abolition of the Court of Star-Chamber, and of trial by juries. With observations on the proper use of the liberty of the press, and its abuses, particularly of late with respect to the colonies; and a brief state of their origin and political nature, collected from various acts of princes and parliaments.

Date:

MDCCLXVI. [1766]