Exodus 21:16 And he that steals a man, and sells him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death. At the time slaves were held in the State of New York, one of them, escaping into Vermont, was captured and taken before the court at Middlebury by his owner, who asked the court to give him possession of his slave property. Judge Harrington listened attentively to the proofs of ownership, but said that he was not convinced that the title was perfect. Then the counsel asked what more was required. "Until you bring me a bill of sale from God Almighty you cannot have this man." (J. Swinton.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death. |
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