1. A letter branded on the base of the thumb of a person who claimed the benefit of clergy to prevent the person from claiming it again. • This practice was formally abolished by the Criminal Statutes (England) Repeal Act of 1827.
2. In Pennsylvania, a letter sewn onto the left sleeve of a convicted thief. • This letter — required by a 1698 statute — had to be at least four inches high and of a different color from the rest of the garment.
