Full Idea
What civil law could prevent a slave from running away? Since he is not a member of society, why should the laws of society concern him?
Gist of Idea
Slaves are not members of the society, so no law can forbid them to run away
Source
Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 15.02)
Book Reference
Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.202
A Reaction
Hm. Does this apply to children, who can't vote or stand for office?