Note 27 — Chapter XI · On Promises.
A. C. (Archibald Colin) Campbell translation
"The most universal and effectual way of discovering the true meaning of a law, when the words are dubious, is by considering the REASON and SPIRIT of it, or the cause which moved the legislator to enact it. For when the reason ceases, the law itself ought likewise to cease with it."—Blackst. Introd. Com. ch. 2. p. 16.