CHAP. XIII.
Neither a Bastard,[272] nor any other person not born in lawful wedlock, can be, in the legal sense of the term, an Heir.[273] But if any one claims an Inheritance in the character of Heir, and the other party object to him, that he cannot be Heir, because he was not born in lawful wedlock, then, indeed, the Plea shall cease in the King’s Court, and the Arch-Bishop or Bishop of the place shall be commanded, to inquire concerning such marriage, and to make known his decision, either to the King or his Justices.
For this purpose, the following Writ shall Issue:——