Alexandria Gazette

INCLOSURES.—The proposition submitted to the legislature of Virginia, by Mr. May, a member from Petersburg, in relation to inclosures, will attract the attention of the agriculturist. It will be perceived that he proposes to make the owners of mischievous, unruly stock, responsible for their depredations, and to require others only to keep such inclosures, as will prevent the trespass of ordinary cattle; and that after notice of the mischievous disposition of any animal, the owner of it will let it run at large at his own peril. This is equitable. Those who keep unruly stock, to the annoyance of a whole neighborhood, should be responsible for the mischief done through their own bad motives, or carelessness. The present law is rather a protection to the wrong-doer—and leaves his innocent neighbors to protect themselves, and their property, by high and strong fences. That is often ineffectual, for some animals are so mischievously inclined, that scarcely any barrier can prevent their depredations. And if they are permitted to roam at large, it is right and proper that their owners should answer for their trespasses. We hope the proposition of Judge May will be successful.—Richmond Virginian.