Tudines

) The books or customs of fiefs. A compilation of feudal law made about A. D. 1150, (or 1170, according to some,) at Milan, in Lombardy. It is the most ancient work on the subject, and was always regarded of the highest authority on the continent.

1 Robertson's Charles V. Appendix, Note xxv. 3 Kent's Com. 496, note.

Mr. Reeves says no allusion is made to it in the old English law books.

2 Reeves* Hist, 60.

It is quoted however by Spelman, and, in more modem times, the most eminent writers, such as Sir William Blackstone, have referred to it freely. It is supposed to have been the work of two Milanese lawyers, (or senators, as they are termed by Montesquieu,) whose names are given by Spelman as Gerardus Niger, and Obertus de Orto. Spelman, voc. Feodum, Voet, in his Digressio de Feudis, sect. 2, says it is uncertain who were the authors. Dr. Robertson observes that it was formed plainly in imitation of the Roman code, the Pandects having been d'lscovered only a few years previous. It is usually annexed to the Ck>rpiis Juris Civilis, under the title of Consuetudines Feudorum.

3 Kenfs Com, ub. sup. 1 Mackeld, Civ, Law, 94, Kaufmann's note.