Cameron v. . McFarland

We do not require the authority of an adjudged case to enable us to pronounce clearly and unequivocally that this bond is void. The principle of our decision is incorporated in the common law, which does not sanction any obligation founded upon a consideration which contravenes its general policy. This impresses upon the transaction an inherent defect which cannot be removed by the most deliberate consent of the parties or the utmost solemnity of external form.

Were it otherwise, there is no law, however important to the public welfare and happiness, which might not be paralyzed by the private…