in the old customs of France, a right vested in the king of being heir to a foreigner that dies within his dominions.

By this right the French King claimed the inheritance of all foreigners that died within his dominions, notwithstanding of any testament the deceased could make. An ambassador was not subject to the right of aubaine; and the Swedes, Savoyards, Scots, and Portuguese were also exempted, being deemed natives and regnicoles.