Chap. II
The crime which, in legal phrase, is termed that of Læse Majesty, as the death of the King, or a sedition moved in the Realm, or Army33—the fraudulent concealment of Treasure-trove—The Plea concerning the breaking of the King’s peace—Homicide—Burning—Robbery—Rape—the crime of Falsifying,34 and such other Pleas as are of a similar nature.35 These crimes are either punished capitally, or with loss of Member.36 We must, however, except the crime of Theft, which belongs to the Sheriffs of Counties, and is discussed and determined in the County Courts.37 It also appertains to Sheriffs, in case of neglect on the part of Lords of Franchise, to take cognizance of Scuffles,38 blows, and wounds, unless the Accuser subjoin to his charge, that the offence was committed against the King’s Peace.39