E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Bill of Lading.
A document signed by the master of a ship in acknowledgment of goods laden in his vessel. In this document he binds himself to deliver the articles in good condition to the persons named in the bill, certain exceptions being duly provided for. These bills are generally in triplicate—one for the sender, one for the receiver, and one for the master of the vessel.
