RULE. This is a metaphorical¹ expression borrowed from mechanics. The rule, in its proper and natural sense, is an instrument by means of which may be drawn² from one point to another, the shortest possible line, which is called a straight line.

2. The rule is a means of comparison in the arts to judge whether the line be straight, as it serves in jurisprudence, to judge whether an action be just or unjust, it is just or right, when it agrees with the rule, which is the law. It is unjust and wrong, when it deviates³ from it. lt is the same with our will or our intention.

RULE OF LAW. Rules of law are general maxims⁵, formed by the courts, who having observed what is common to many particular cases, announce this conformity⁶ by a maxim⁴, which is called a rule; because in doubtful and unforeseen cases, it is a rule for their decision; it embraces particular cases within general principles. Toull. Tit. prel. n. 17; 1 Bl. Com. 44; Domat, liv. prel. t. 1, s. 1 Ram⁷ on Judgm. 30; 3 Barn. & Adol. 34; 2 Russ. R. 216, 580, 581; 4 Russ. R. 305; 10 Price's R. 218, 219, 228; 1 Barn. & Cr. 86; 7 Bing. R. 280; 1 Ld. Raym. 728; 5 T. R. 5; 4 M. & S. 348. See Maxim.

RULE OF COURT. An order made by a court having competent jurisdiction⁸.

2. Rules of court are either general or special; the former are the laws by which the practice of the court is governed; the latter are special orders made in particular cases.

3. Disobedience to these is punished by giving judgment⁹ against the disobedient party, or by attachment¹⁰ for contempt.

RULE TO SHOW CAUSE. An order made by the court, in a particular case, upon motion of one of the parties calling upon the other to appear at a particular time before the court, to show cause, if any he have, why a certain thing should not be done.

2. This rule is granted generally upon the oath or affirmation of the applicant¹¹; but upon the hearing, the evidence of competent witnesses must be given to support the rule, and the affidavit¹² of the applicant is insufficient¹³.

RULE OF THE WAR, l756, comm. law, war. A rule relating to neutrals was the first rule practically, established in 1756, and universally promulgated¹⁴, that "neutrals are not to carry onin times of war, a trade which was interdicted¹⁵ to them in times of peace." Chit. Law of Nat. 166; 2 Rob. n. 186; 4 Rob. App.; Reeve on Shipp. 271; 1 Kent, Com. 82; Mann. Law Nat. 196 to 202.