§. 127. Thus mankind, notwithstanding all the privileges of the state of
Nature, being but in an ill condition while they remain in it are quickly
driven into society. Hence it comes to pass, that we seldom find any number of
men live any time together in this state. The inconveniencies that they are
therein exposed to by the irregular and uncertain exercise of the power every
man has of punishing the transgressions of others, make them take sanctuary
under the established laws of government, and therein seek the preservation of
their property. It is this that makes them so willingly give up every one his
single power of punishing to be exercised by such alone as shall be appointed
to it amongst them, and by such rules as the community, or those authorised by
them to that purpose, shall agree on. And in this we have the original right
and rise of both the legislative and executive power as well as of the
governments and societies themselves.
