Agist
A Dictionary of Law · William C. Anderson · 1889
A Dictionary of Law
Originally, to feed cattle in the king's forest: a service performed for a consideration by officers called "agisters" or "gist-takers." Now, to pasture animals for pay.
Agistment
Where a man takes in a horse or other cattle to graze and depasture in his grounds.
Agister.
One who takes the cattle of another into his own ground to be fed for a consideration to be paid by the owner. He has a lien for the keep; and may maintain trespass or trover against a stranger for taking the animals away. While he does not insure the safety of an animal he is responsible for ordinary negligence in the care he takes of it. He, and not the owner, is liable for injuries done by beasts prone to commit trespasses.