How would you explain the word “law” in the sentence? I saw myself one of the yeoman-prickers single out a stag from the herd, and must confess that it was the most curious feat of activity I ever beheld, superior to anything in Mr. Astley's riding-school. The exertions made by the horse and deer much exceeded all my expectations; though the former greatly excelled the latter in speed. When the devoted deer was separated from his companions, they gave him, by their watches, law, as they called it, for twenty minutes; when, sounding their horns, the stop-dogs were permitted to pursue, and a most gallant scene ensued. How would you explain the word “law” in “they gave him, by their watches, law, as they called it, for twenty minutes”? PS: this extract is taken from The Natural History of Selborne. Thanks!