BRIEF

(Lat. brevis, short.) A word applied originally to a small written scroll; but it is used at preent in several significations. In modern German the word brief signifies a letter. I. In Ecclesiastical Law, letters addre ed from the pope to temporal princes or communities on subjects of discipline or public affairs, are termed apostolical briefs. The name appears to have originated either in the concise formula with which they begin (" dilecto filio salutem et apostolic am benedictionem "), or in the difference that exists between this smaller kind of instrument and the ample bullae (bulls) of the popes. Apostolical briefs are usually written upon paper, though sometimes parchment is used. They are sealed in red wax with the seal of the Fisherman (sub annulo Piscator is), which is a symbol of St. Peter casting a net into the sea. {Ciampini, Di ertatio de Abbrev. Munere, cap.iii.) 169 2, In Law, the term brief is applied to an abridged narration of the facts of a case prepared for trial, with or without a reference to points of law involved in it, drawn up for the preliminary instruction of an advocate. 3. The term brief is applied in England to king's letters, i ued to the archbishops, bishops, clergy, magistrates, and parochial officers, to authorize collections of money af the doors of the several churches and chapels throughout the country, in individual cases wherein application has been made for such a istance towards the building or repair of a particular church. This custom is supposed to have commenced after the disuse of papal briefs consequent on the Reformation. Within the last few years this practice has been dropped, and a king's letter is sent round at certain intervals to collect money for the use of the Incorporated Society for the Building of Churches generally throughout the country. The last collections were made in 1829, when something more [s. 182]