M'Culloch v. Maryland · ¶35

In ascertaining the sense in which the word “ necessary” is used in this clause of the constitution, we - may derive some aid from that with which it is associated. Congress shall have power “ to make all; laws which shall be necessary and proper to carry into'execution” the powers of the government. If the word “ necessary” was used in that strict and rigorous sense for which the counsel for the State of Maryland contend, it would be an extraordinary depaitaré from the usual course of the human mind;, as exhibited 10 composition, to add a wordj the only possible effect of which is to qualify that strict and rigorous meaning; to present to the mind the idea of some choice. of means of legislation not straitened and compressed within the narrow limits for which gentlemen contend.

U. S. Reports, bound volume
U. S. Reports, volume 17, at 316 (Library of Congress) · transcription: Caselaw Access Project
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