Two faces of a coin: aggregation vs. potestas distributiva. No separation of powers but division of labor. Early magistrates. The multiform word "capitular": etymology, uses in Venice (magistrates and guilds), use outside Venice. Promissiones ducis as capitulars for the doge as a magistrate. Order of the sources of law in judicial matters. Early statutory laws: difference in aims and procedure from the legislation of the Councils. Difference from the statutes of the Italian Comuni. The 4th crusade: the Republic of Venice as partner of feudal princes in the Empire of Romània. A varnish of feudalism on a democratic form of government.