21. If two texts of the Law be opposed to each other, an argument founded on usage is of force; but the Dharma Śástra is of greater force than the Artha Śástra.[63] This is a settled rule.
22. Legal proofs are described as, writing, possession, and witnesses.
In the absence of either of those, it is ordained, that some one of the ordeals is [to be resorted to.]
23. In all disputes where property is concerned, the last act is of greater force;[64] except in [cases of] pledge, gift,[65] and sale, when the first act is of greater force.[66]
24. If one see[67] his land in the possession of another[68] and say nothing, it is lost after twenty years; moveables after ten years:[69]
25. excepting pledges, boundary-limits, deposits with specification,[70] property of idiots and children, deposits without specification,[71] property of the monarch, of women, and of those learned in the Vedas.
26. One who appropriates[72] a pledge, &c., shall be compelled to restore to the owner his property, and to pay a fine of equal value, or according to his means,[73] to the monarch.