the act of legislature that creates a corporation and sets forth its franchise that defines the organisation of a corporation.

CHARTER, V

In mercantile law. To hire or lease a vessel for a voyage. A “chartered” is distinguished from a “seeking” ship. 7 East, 24.

CHARTER, N

An instrument emanating from the sovereign power, in the nature of a grant, either to the whole nation, or to a class or portion of the people, or to a colony or dependency, and assuring to them certain rights, liberties, or powers. Such was the “Great Charter” or “Magna Charta,” and such also were the charters granted to certain of the English colonies in America. See Story, Const.