in our ancient customs, signified a part or portion, most commonly of a meadow, where several persons have shares. It also still signifies a distribution or dealing of alms, or a liberal gift made by a great man to the people.

in Scots law, signifies a malevolent intention. It is essential in all crimes that it be committed intentionally, or by an act of the will; hence the rule, Crimen dolis contrahitur. See SCOTS LAW, title 33.