Gibbons v. Ogden · ¶89

In considering this question, the first idea which presents itself, is, thát the laws of Congress for the- regulation.of commerce, do not look to the principle by which vessels are moved. That sub-' ject is left entirely to individual discretion; and, in that vast. and complex system of legislative enactment concerning it, which embraces every thing that the Legislature thought it necessary to notice, there is not, we believe, one word respect-. ing the peculiar principle by which vessels are propelled through the water* except what may be found in a single act, granting a particular privilege to steam boats. With this exception, evexy act, either prescribing duties, or granting privileges, applies to every- vessel, whether nayigated by the instrumentality of Wind or fire, of sails or machinery. The whole weight of proof, then, is thrown, upon him who would introduce a distinction to…

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