On the State of War and of Peace
Book Three has Rayneval taking the reader through the Law of Nations as it relates to war and peace. A focus is placed on the origins, causes, effects, and conduct of war both on land and at sea. The right of conquest in considered, including prisoners, hostages, as well as civilians in conquered territory. This Book also examines the various principles governing alliances and the role of Neutral Powers in times of war. Where the seas are concerned, Rayneval considers the role of Neutrals Powers, of the right to visit in times of war, of Letters of Marque, and the taking of Prizes. Where peace is concerned, Rayneval speaks of the nature and obligations flowing from peace treaties and invokes mediation as the sole basis of third-party dispute settlement.