Stanley runs a business in Middletown.He knows bribing an officer in return for favorable duties is a crime.However,he avoids "bribery" by sending "gifts" to the sheriff as a token of appreciation for the officer's services to the town.The sheriff is impressed by Stanley's act and ensures that his business is "well protected." Analyze the situation.

According to Professor Anthony Chase,one of the most obvious dualities in the law is the balance between the spirit and the letter of the law.Generally,a person who follows the spirit of the law has found its actual intent,while one who is tied to the letter of the law has missed its true meaning.In this case,Stanley seems to have complied with the letter of the law,but not the spirit of the law,missing the true meaning of the prohibition of bribery which ensures all citizens are treated equally.