[1251] If the jurors had superficial measure in their heads and were stating this by reference to two straight lines, they would make the length of one of these lines a constant (e.g. one league or one furlong). This is not done: the space is 6 furlongs in length by 3 in breadth, 14 furlongs in length by 4 in breadth, 9 furlongs and 1 perch in length by 5 furlongs and 2 perches in breadth (instances from Norfolk) or the like. They are endeavouring to indicate shape as well as size. See the method of measurement adopted in K. 594 (iii. 129): ‘and ðær ðæt land unbradest is ðer hit sceol beon eahtatyne fota brad.’
[1252] The league of 12 furlongs has dropped out of modern usage; it is very prominent in D. B., where miles, though not unknown, are rare.
[1253] Our foot is ·30479 meters. Our perch is very close to 5 meters. Our acre 40·467 ares. A hide of 120 acres would be 48·56 hectares.
[1254] Statutes of the Realm, i. 206: ‘Tres pedes faciunt ulnam.’ Though this equation gets established, the ulna or cloth-yard seems to start by being an arm’s length. See the story that Henry I. made his own arm a standard: Will. Malmesb. Gesta Regum., ii. 487. Britton, i. 189, tells us that the aune contains two cubits and two thumbs (inches). Our yard seems too long to be a step.
[1255] Second Report of Commissioners for Weights and Measures, Parliamentary Papers, 1820, Reports, vol. vii.
[1256] As to all this see Meitzen, op. cit. i. 272 fol.
[1257] The ratio 10:1 is not the only one that is well represented in Germany. The practice of making the acre four rods wide is more universal. As we shall see below, length must take its chance.
[1258] Morgan, England under the Normans, 19.
[1259] Pollock, E. H. R. xi. 218.
[1260] Morgan, op. cit. 19, citing Monasticon, iv. 421.