In early feudal law. A benefice; a permanent stipendiary estate; the same with what was afterwards called a “fief,” “feud,” or “fee.” 3 Steph. Comm. 77, note i; Spelman. In the civil law . A benefit or favor; any particular privilege. Dig. 1, 4, 3; Cod. 7, 71; Mackeld. Rom. Law,
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
