It is true that the lex non scripta differs from the lex scripta in this, that, being unwritten, it is more readily altered; and that it has, from time to time, been quietly ameliorated.

Aurea dum late volitant tua scripta per orbem, Et fama eternum vivis, divine poeta, Hic placida jaceas requie, custodiat urnam Cana fides, vigilenique perenni lampade muse!