Charter

2. Aninstrument emanating from the sovereign power, in the nature of a grant, either to the whole nation, or to a class or portion of the people, or to a colony or dependency, and assuring to them certain rights, liberties, or powers. Such was the “Great Charter” or “Mugna Charta,” and such also were the charters granted to certain of the English colonies in America. See Story, Const. § 161. An act of the legislative department of government, creating a corporation, is called the “charter” of the corporation.

In old English law. The term denoted a deed or other written instrument under seal; & conveyance, covenant, or contract. be performed or paid by him. 1 Forb. Inst. pt. 2, b. 2,¢. J, tit. 1. A writing which contains the grant or transmission of the feudal right to the vassal. Eysk. Inst. 2, 3, lige

In old Scotch law. A disposition made by a superior to his vassal, for some thing to be performed or paid by him. 1 Forbes* Inst, part 2, b. 2, c. 1, tit. 1. A writing which contains the grant or transmission of the feudal right to the vassal. Ersk, Inst, b. 2, tit. 3, § 19.