May I offer an illustration? The land shall descend to the eldest son—you shall love your neighbour as yourself. In the two codes these are foundation-stones. But see how they differ! There is the land—here is the eldest son—the right is clear and fast—and the case done with. But—do to thy neighbour! Do what? and to whom?
NORTH.
All human actions, all human affections, all human thoughts are then contained in the one Law—as the subject of which it defines the disposal. All mankind, but distributed into communities, and individuals all differently related to me are contained in it, as the parties in respect of whom it defines the disposal!
SEWARD.
And what is the Form? Do as thou wouldst it be done to thee!
NORTH.
Ay—my dear friend—The form resolves into a feeling. Love thy neighbour. That is all. Is a measure given? As thyself.
SEWARD.
And is there no limitation?
NORTH.