The expression of ideas by letters visible to the eye. Clason v. Bailey, 14Johns. (N. Y.) 491. The giving an outward aud objective form to a contract, will, etc.,by means of letters or marks placed upon paper, parchment, or other material substance.In the most general sense of the word, “writing” denotes a document, whethermanuscript or printed, as opposed to mere spoken words. Writing is essential to thevalidity of certain contracts and other transactions. Sweet