Trade

In its most extensive signification this word includes all sorts of dealings by way of sale or exchange. Ina more limited sense it signifies the dealings in a particular business, as the India trade; by trade is also understood the business ef a particular mechanic, hence boys are said to be put apprentices to learn a trade, as the trade of a carnter, shoemaker, and the like. rade differs from art, (q. v.) It is the policy of the law to encourage trade, and therefore all contracts which restrain the exercise of man’s talents in trade are detrimental to the commonwealth, and therefore void; though he may bind himself not to exercise a trade in a particuler place, for, in this last case, as he may pursue it in another place, the commonwealth has the benefit of it.

8 Mass. 223; 9 Mass. 522.

Vide Com. Dig. h. t.; Vin. Ab. h. t.