(we have given power.) In English practice. A writ or commission issuing out of chancery, eni-powering the persons named therein to per-form certain acts, as to administer oaths to defendants in chancery and take their an-swers, to administer oaths of office to justices of the peace, etc. 3 Bl. Comm. 447. It was anciently allowed for many purposes not now in use, as to make an attorney, to take the acknowledgment of a fine, etc