1Ulpianus, Institutes, Book I. Whatever the Emperor has decreed has the force of law; since by a Royal ordinance which was passed concerning his sovereignty, the people conferred upon him all their own authority and power. 1Therefore, everything which the Emperor decrees by a letter over his signature, whether he decided after examining it or did so without judicial consideration or ordered it by means of an edict, has the force of law; and these are what we generally designate constitutions. 2Among the latter there are some which are special, and are not to be employed as precedents; for whatever the Emperor has granted to anyone as a reward of merit, or where he inflicts a penalty, or relieves a person in an unusual way, this does not extend beyond the party in question.

2Ulpianus, Trusts, Book IV. In the enactment of new laws evidence of benefit should manifestly appear to justify departure from a law which has been considered just for a long period of time.

3Javolenus, Epistles, Book XIII. We should interpret as liberally as possible any favor of the Emperor which in fact proceeds from his Divine indulgence.

4Modestinus, Excuses, Book II. Recent constitutions have greater authority than those which have preceded them.