The French courts have ruled that, in certain circumstances, a man may legally thrash his wife.

No longer wilful woman hides
Behind a law that over-rides
   The dicta of her lawful lord and master.
And, they who fain would lift a hand
To erring wives, now understand
   That they invite no subsequent disaster.

So, be the boss in your own home;
And, should a naughty missus roam
   Unheeding, let no fear of gaol unman you.
And, in the good, old-fashioned way,
Thrash her.  The law declares you may.
   The only question now-a-days is -- Can you?

"Den"
Sun, 20 May 1927, p7