[128] An Excise duty on liquor had recently (1643) been introduced by the Long Parliament.
[129] Scobell, part i. p. 129; part ii. p. 320.
[130] D'Argenson, lieutenant of police, declared that "there were more irregularities and debaucheries committed in Paris during the Easter fortnight, when the theatres were shut, than during the four months of the season during which they were open" ("Memoirs de Pollnitz," vol. iii.).
[131] Macaulay's "History of England," 1889 Edn., p. 178.
[132] 13 and 14 Car. ii. c. 2.
[133] The number of such vehicles was strictly limited. In London no more than 400 were allowed.
[134] 14 Car. ii. c. 12, sect. 15. The statute also provides for the appointment of special constables in times of emergency.
[135] 15 Car. ii. c. 1.
[136] From "The duty and Office of High Constable, &c." by W. Brown, a clerk of the Court of Common Pleas. Lond. 1677, pp. 26 and 27.
[137] 13 and 14 Car. ii. c. 12 § 22.