The thing in controversy, or the matter spoken or written about. Sublata causa tollitur effectus. Co. I.itt. 303. The cause being removed the effect ceases. Sublata veneratione magistratuum, respublica ruit. When respect for magistrates is taken away, the commonwealth falls. Jenk. Cent. p. 43, case 81. Subl&to fundamento cadit opus. Jenk. Cent. 100. The foundation being removed, the superstructure falls. Sublato principal!, tollitur adjunctum. When the principal is taken away, the incident is taken also. Co. Litt. 380a.