general, is used to denote a stone of any kind.

Roman antiquity, a geographical measure denoting a mile; because miles were distinguished by erecting a stone at the end of each; from the number marked on which, the length of way from Rome might be known. The device is by Plutarch ascribed to Caius Gracchus. This was more accurately executed by Augustus, who erected a gilt pillar in the forum, at which all the public ways of Italy, distinguished by stones, were terminated. The same thing was done in the Roman provinces. Hence the phrases