[613] "It will probably, make some great revolutions in property, and raise up many from penury ... and cause others to descend to the condition that becomes honest men, by compelling a payment of their debts—as every honest man ought to be compelled to do, if ever able.... It ought not to be at any one's discretion to say when, or under what convenient circumstances, he will wipe off his debts, by the benefit of an insolvent law—as some do every two or three years; or, just as often as they can get credit enough to make any thing by it." (Niles, xvi, 2.)
[614] See infra, next chapter.
CHAPTER V
THE DARTMOUTH COLLEGE CASE
Such a contract, in relation to a publick institution would be absurd and contrary to the principles of all governments. (Chief Justice William M. Richardson.)
It would seem as if the state legislatures have an invincible hostility to the sacredness of charters. (Marshall.)
Perhaps no judicial proceedings in this country ever involved more important consequences. (North American Review, 1820.)
It is the legitimate business of government to see that contracts are fulfilled, that charters are kept inviolate, and the foundations of human confidence not rudely or wantonly disturbed. (John Fiske.)