Tertullian

“ The law, however, becomes an object of suspicion when it declines to approve itself. Naturally enough, [13] then, are the laws against the Christians supposed to be just and deserving of respect and observance, just as long as men remain ignorant of their aim and purport; but when this is perceived, their extreme injustice is discovered, and they are deservedly rejected with abhorrence, [14] along with (their instruments of torture) —the swords, the crosses, and the lions. An unjust law secures no respect. ”

“ An examination is ordered touching the particulars [7] of the crime, even though it is patent to all what its nature [8] is. Whatever wrong has been done by the Christian ought to be brought to light. No law forbids inquiry to be made ”