XXV. That naturally the delivery is not requisite to transfer do∣minion.
The last means of acquiring dominion by the Law of Nations is by Tradition: But (as I said before) this is not required to the transferring of dominion by the Law of Na∣ture, which the Roman Lawyers themselves acknowledge in some cases: As when the property of any thing is given away, but the profits of it reserved; or when it is be∣stowed on him that may hereafter possess it; or when being but lent, it may be kept; (and in such like cases:) Yea and even now a man may in some cases transfer Dominion to another, before he hath gained possession himself. As of an Inheritance expectant, of Legacies to be received, of things given to Churches and to pious places, or to Cities, &c. whereof it may be said, Then the delivery of possession seems to be good, when the deeds of gift are in a mans own possession.* 1.1 And thus did the ancient Romans use to aliene things sold by striking the Scales with a piece of Brass, and then giving it to him that made the sale.