These are the principal diſtinctions between aliens, denizens, and natives: diſtinctions, which endeavours have been frequently uſed ſince the commencement of this century to lay almoſt totally aſide, by one general naturalization-act for all foreign proteſtants. An attempt which was once carried into execution by the ſtatute 7 Ann. c. 5. but this, after three years experience of it, was repealed by the ſtatute 10 Ann. c. 5. except one clauſe, which was juſt now mentioned, for naturalizing the children of Engliſh parents born abroad. However, every foreign ſeaman who in time of war ſerves two years on board an Engliſh ſhip is ipſo facto naturalized[1]; and all foreign proteſtants, and Jews, upon their reſiding ſeven years in any of the American colonies, without being abſent above two months at a time, are upon taking the oaths naturalized to all intents and purpoſes, as if they had been born in this kingdom[2]; and therefore are admiſſible to all ſuch privileges, and no other, as proteſtants or Jews born in this kingdom are entitled to. What thoſe privileges are[3], was the ſubject of very high debates about the time of the famous Jew-bill[4]; which enabled all Jews to prefer bills of naturalization in parliament, without receiving the ſacrament, as ordained by ſtatute 7 Jac. I. It is not my intention to revive this controverſy again; for the act lived only a few months, and was then repealed[5]: therefore peace be now to it's manes.
Page:William Blackstone, Commentaries on the Laws of England (3rd ed, 1768, vol I).djvu/391
Ch. 10.
of Persons.
375
