In English practice. A plea of the general issue by a defendant in a civil action , when he intends to give special matter in evidence by virtue of some act or acts of parliament , iu which case he must add the reference to such act or acts, and state whether such acts are public or otherwise. But, if a defendant so plead, he will not be allowed to plead any other defense, without the leave of the court or a judge. Mozley & Whitley.
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
