CANDLE. Sale or auction by inch of candle, is when a small piece of candle is lighted, and the bystanders are allowed to bid for the merchandise that is selling as long as it lasts; but the moment the candle is out the commodity is adjudged to the last bidder.
There is also an excommunication by inch of candle, when the sinner is allowed to come to repentance while a candle continues burning; but after it is consumed, he remains excommunicated to all intents and purposes.