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206
NÂRADA.
XIV, 23.
or when (other) property has been taken away forcibly, experienced men shall trace it from the place where it has been taken.
23. Wherever the footmarks go to, whether it be a village, pasture ground or deserted spot (the inhabitants or owners of) that place must make good the loss, unless they can prove the footmarks to go out of that place again.
24. When the footmarks are obscured or interrupted, because (they lead to) broken ground or to a spot much frequented by other people, the nearest village or pasture ground shall be made responsible.
25. Where two persons have gone the same road, the offence, as a rule, shall be imputed to him who stood charged with other crimes before, or who associates with suspicious characters.
26. Kandalas, executioners, and other such persons, as well as those who are in the habit of roaming at night, shall institute a search (after the thieves) in the villages; those living outside of inhabited places) shall search (for them) outside.
27. When the thieves are not caught, the king must make good (the loss) from his own treasury. By showing himself remiss (towards criminals), he would incur sin and would offend both against justice and his own interest.
23. Yâgñavalkya II, 271. 26. Manu IX, 267.
24. Yâgñavalkya II, 272.
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