Primage

A certain allowance paid by the shipper or consignee of goods to the mariners and master of a vessel for loading her. Wha Hon; Cowel. A duty at the water-side, due to the master and mariners of a ship: to the master, for the use of his cables and ropes, to discharge the goods of the merchant; and to the mariners, for lading and unlading in any port or haven. It is usually about twelvepence per ton, or sixpence per pack or bale, according to custom. Merch. Diet.; Jacob, A small payment made to the master of a vessel for his personal care and trouble, which he is to receive in addition to his wages or salary, to his own use, unless he has otherwise agreed with his employers. This payment is that intended in the phrase, " with primage and average accustomed." It appears to be of very ancient date; and in the old books is sometimes called " hat money," and also " la contribution des chausses, ou pot de vin du maitre."

Abbot Shipp. by Shee, 404; Maude Sp P. Merch. Ship. 88; Kay Law of Shipm.