237. Res ipse loquitur. The thing speaks for itself (without proof).
Frequently quoted in actions for damages for negligence. (See Max. No. 69, and Chitty on Contracts, 16th ed. pp. 523–723.)
238. Res inter alios acta alteri nocere non debet. A thing done between two persons ought not to injure another.
(See Duchess of Kingston’s Case, 2 Sm. L. C. 731.)
239. Res judicata pro veritate accipiatur. A point judicially decided is taken to be correct.
This is conclusive so far as Courts of inferior jurisdiction are concerned, until the judgment is reversed.
* 240. Respondeat superior. Let the principal answer.
One authorising an unlawful act to be done by his servant, is himself answerable. The maxim does not apply as against the Crown. See also Max. No. 213. Also “Qui per alium facit per seipsum facere videtur.” Also the case of Thompson v. Davenport, 2 Sm. L. C. p. 379. Where at the time of sale the vendor is aware that there is a principal, but does not know who he is and debits the agent, he may nevertheless resort to the principal when known.
241. Rex debet esse sub lege, quia lex facit regem. The king ought to be subservient to the law, for the law makes the king.
This is so in our realm at the present time, although many of our earlier Sovereigns appeared to think otherwise, and acted accordingly.