Gibbons v. Ogden · ¶65

In pursuing this inquiry at the bar, it has been said, that the constitution does not confer the right of intercourse between State and State. That fight derives its source from those laws whose authority is acknowledged by civilized man throughout the world. This is true. The constitution found it an existing right, and gave to Congress the power to regulate it. In the exercise of this jpower, Congress has passed “ an act for enrolling, or licensing ships or vessels to be employed in the coasting trade and fisheries, and for regulating the same.”. The counsel for the respondent contend, that this act does not give the right to sail from port to port, but confines itself to regulating a pre-existing right, so far only as to confer certain privileges on enrolled and licensed vessels in its exercise.

U. S. Reports, bound volume
U. S. Reports, volume 22, at 1 (Library of Congress) · transcription: Caselaw Access Project
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