In Stuart v. Laird (1803) 5 U.S. 299, the Supreme Court of the United States held that a practical exposition of the constitution by the courts -- little, if any, more pronounced than in this case -- was "too strong to be shaken or controlled."The Court also helt tha: "It is sufficient to observe, that practice and acquiescence under the act for a period of several years . . . has indeed fixed the construction. It is a contemporary interpretation of the most forcible nature. This practical exposition is too strong and obstinate to be shaken or controlled."