the art of war, a row of soldiers, standing one behind another, which is the depth of the battalion or squadron. The files of a battalion of foot are generally three deep; as are sometimes those of a squadron of horse. The files must be straight and parallel one to another.

law, a thread, string, or wire, upon which writs and other exhibits in courts and offices are fastened or filed, for the more safe keeping, and ready turning to the same. A file is a record of the court; and the filing of a process of a court makes it a record of it. An original writ may be filed after judgment given in the cause, if filed forth before; declarations, &c., are to be filed, and affidavits must be filed, some before they are read in court, and some presently when read in court. Before filing a record removed by certiorari, the justices of B. R. may refuse to receive it, if it appears to be for delay, &c.; and remand it back for the expedition of justice; but if the certiorari be once filed, the proceedings below cannot be revived. An indictment, &c., cannot be amended after it is filed.