The equality of nations, like the equality of men, was recognized tardily, under the growing influence of civilization. Not to the earlier writers, not even to the wonderful Grotius, whose instinct for truth was so divine, do we repair for the elucidation of this undoubted rule. Our Swiss teacher, Vattel, prompted, perhaps, by the experience of his own country, surrounded by more powerful neighbors, was the first to make it stand forth in its present character. His words, which are as remarkable for picturesque force as for juridical accuracy, state the whole case:-- “Nations composed of men, and considered as so many free persons living together in the state of Nature, are naturally equal, and inherit from Nature the same obligations and rights. Power or weakness does not in this respect produce any difference. A dwarf is as much a man as a giant; a small republic is no less a sovereign state than the most powerful kingdom. By a necessary consequence of that equality, whatever is lawful for one nation is equally lawful for any other, and whatever is unjustifiable in the one is equally so in the other.”[67] Later authorities have followed this statement, with some slight variety of expression, but with no diminution of its force. One of the earliest to reproduce it was Sir William Scott, in one of his masterly judgments, lending to it the vivid beauty of his style:-- “A fundamental principle of Public Law is the perfect equality and entire independence of all distinct states. Relative magnitude creates no distinction of right; relative imbecility, whether permanent or casual, gives no additional right to the more powerful neighbor; and any advantage seized upon that ground is mere usurpation. This is the great foundation of Public Law, which it mainly concerns the peace of mankind, both in their politic and private capacities, to preserve inviolate.”[68] The German Heffter states the rule more simply, but with equal force:-- “Nations, being sovereign or independent of each other, treat together on a footing of complete equality. The most feeble state has the same political rights as the strongest. In other terms, each state exercises in their plenitude the rights which result from its political existence and from its participation in international association.”[69] The latest English writers testify likewise. Here are the words of Phillimore:-- “The natural equality of states is the necessary companion of their independence,--that primitive cardinal right upon which the science of International Law is mainly built.… They are entitled, in their intercourse with other states, to all the rights incident to a natural equality. No other state is entitled to encroach upon this equality by arrogating to itself peculiar privileges or prerogatives as to the manner of their mutual intercourse.”[70]