The law delights in equity; it covets perfection; it is a rule of right.

Explanation

The three attributes of law — equity, perfection, rightness — express its highest aspiration. Where a construction of law defeats any of these, the construction is wrong.

Where this applies

• A law is tested against three standards: does it serve equity, seek perfection, and uphold right.
• Someone challenges a law as failing to meet the basic attributes of what law should be.

See also

• 1.4.1 Equity is a certain perfect reason which interprets and amends the written law, comprehended in no writing, but consisting in right reason alone.
• 1.5.1 Law is the highest reason, which commands what is useful and necessary, and forbids what is contrary thereto.
• 1.5.6 Law is a rule of right.