"Touch but a cobweb in Westminster Hall, and the old spider of the law is out upon you with all his vermin at his heels"

In this quote by Henry Fox, "Touch however a cobweb in Westminster Hall, and the old spider of the law is out upon you with all his vermin at his heels," a brilliant metaphor is crafted to illustrate the intricacy and relentless nature of legal systems, particularly within the context of British law as represented by Westminster Hall.

The "cobweb" works as a metaphor for the delicate and intricate labyrinth of laws, policies, and legal precedents that govern society. Simply as a cobweb may appear delicate and simple, legal matters can typically appear minor or easily navigable to the inexperienced eye. However, like a cobweb, the legal system is adjoined and any disruption, no matter how small, can activate significant effects.

The "old spider of the law" represents the legal authorities or the judicial system itself. Spiders are typically connected with persistence, vigilance, and inevitability, qualities that are reflective of how the law operates. The law waits silently, but is constantly ready to react when interrupted. This indicates a sense of foreboding and inevitability; as soon as you have engaged with the law, either deliberately or mistakenly, there is no escaping its reach.

The expression "with all his vermin at his heels" suggests that the legal system does not act alone. There is a ramification of an entourage or supporting cast of lesser yet still formidable components ready to swarm once the law is invoked. These "vermin" might represent lawyers, clerks, or whole institutions that support and perform the requireds of the law, enforcing its provisions with precision and swiftness.

In essence, Fox's quote cautions of the latent power and intricacy of the legal system, cautioning individuals to tread carefully. This metaphor highlights the value of respecting legal frameworks, comprehending that even the smallest mistake can let loose a waterfall of legal effects.