In Holland therefore, if there be no stadtholder, there is no power of pardoning lodged in any other member of the state. Whenever the nation see him personally engaged, it is only in works of legislature, magnificence, or compassion. Under this head, of pardons, let us briefly consider, 1. The effect of such pardon, when allowed.
General words have also a very imperfect effect in pardons.
It is also enacted by statute 13 Ric. Under these and a few other restrictions, it is a general rule, that a pardon shall be taken most beneficially for the subject, and most strongly against the king. 14. and rendered more easy and effectual by statute 8 Geo. But, if a man avails himself thereof as soon as by course of law he may, a pardon may either be pleaded upon arraignment, or in arrest of judgment, or in the present stage of proceedings, in bar of execution. Antiently, by statute 10 Edw.