the English Parliament, Rape Act 1275
“ And see 18 Eliz. c. 7. which takes away Clergy from this Offence: Likewise the 4th Sect. of the same Stat. which makes it Felony without Clergy to have carnal Knowledge of Woman Child under ten Years of Age.AND the King prohibiteth that none do ravish, nor take away by Force, any Maiden within Age (neither by her own Consent, nor without) nor any Wife or Maiden of full Age, nor any other Woman against her Will; (2) and if any do, at his Suit that will sue within fourty Days, the King shall do common Right; (3) and if none commence his Suit within fourty Days, the King shall sue ”
