An engine of correction for common scolds, which in the Saxon language is said to signify the scolding-stool, though now it is frequently corrupted into ducking-stool, because the judgment was that, when the woman was placed therein, she should be plunged in the water for her punishment. It was also variously called a "trebucket," "tumbrel," or "castigatory." 3 Inst. 219; 4 Bl. … [Read more...]

In old English law. Marsh land. Blount … [Read more...]

A term in French maritime law. Affreightment of a vessel a cueillette, is a contract by which the captain obligates himself to receive a partial cargo, only upon condition that he shall succeed in completing his cargo by other partial lading; that is, by gathering it (en recueillant) wherever he may be able to find it. If he fails to collect a cargo, such partial charterin is … [Read more...]

In old English law. Signed or marked with a cross. Pilgrims to the holy land, or crusaders; so called because they wore the sign of the cross upon their garments. Spelman. … [Read more...]

(To whom before divorce.) A writ for a woman divorced from her husband to recover her lands and tenements which she had in fee simple or in tall, or for life, from him to whom her husband alienated them during the marriage, when she could not gainsay it. Reg. Orig. 233, … [Read more...]