Law and Custom

In French West Africa there are magistrates who administer justice according to the French legal Code, and others who administer local Customary law; and those who come under their jurisdiction, like the magistrates themselves, are divided into two different classes. The Code applies to French citizens, whatever their colour; Customary law applies to native subjects whatever their rank. And it is laid down that customary law is applicable in so far as it is not contrary to the principles of civilization. ¹