In jure continetur, ne quis in administratione constitutus aliquid compararet. Cod. Theod. 1. viii. tit. xv. leg. 1.
This maxim of common law was enforced by a series of edicts (see the remainder of the title) from Constantine to Justin. From this prohibition, which is extended to the meanest officers of the governor, they except only clothes and provisions. The purchase within five years may be recovered; after which, on information, it devolves to the treasury.