* Hadmut Danisch: > The only precise definition I found is in a law dictionary where it is > defined as a legal term.
The OED might also be helpful: B. [...] 2. a. A chief actor or doer; the chief person engaged in some transaction or function, esp. in relation to one employed by or acting for him (deputy, agent, etc.); the person for whom and by whose authority another acts. [...] 1962 H.O. Beecheno Introd. Business Stud. xiii. 117 Whereas an agent is not normally allowed to relend his principal's money at interest .. a bank is allowed to do this. 1976 Times 22 Par. (Baltic Exchange Suppl.) p. i/9 The Baltic is unusual in being open both to middle men and principals. I think this is a strong indication that the term is used in one of its original meanings. It also explained why nobody thinks it's necessary to define it properly. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The Cryptography Mailing List Unsubscribe by sending "unsubscribe cryptography" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]