XXI. In the second part, I have treated of the origin and causes of maritime wars, of neutrality, and of the duties of neutral and belligerent nations towards each other. By applying the principles, developed in the first part, to the law of marine captures and recaptures, I have formed a body of elementary doctrines, founded on positive laws, and the principles of natural equity, that will serve for a sure guide in the decision of questions which may arise relative to navigation and commerce, either in peace or war. XXII. The same subjects have been already discussed by me, in another work, published in 1795, entitled, Sistema Universale dei principii del Diritto Marittimo dell' Europa; but the limits prescribed to myself, in that work, did not allow me to investigate the several matters to that extent of which they were susceptible, and which was necessary, in order to reduce them into a system. There is not, therefore, in that performance, that clearness and full explication, which I have endeavoured to introduce into the work now offered to the public, in as complete a manner as my understanding and abilities would permit. May I be fortunate enough to render my forts useful to nations! May I attain the only end I have in view, the good of my fellow men! ef PAGE 5 9 17 |