The most usual of which are, l. To attest deeds, agreements and other instruments, in order to give them authenticity. To protest notes, bills of exchange and the like. To certify copies of agreements and other instruments. By 1850 Act of Congress it is enacted, that in all cases in which, under the laws of the United States, oaths, affirmations or acknowledgments may now be taken or made before any justice or justices of the peace of any state or territory, such oaths, affirmations or acknowledgments may be hereafter also taken or made by or before any notary public duly appointed in any state or territory, aud, when certified under, the hand and official seal of such notary, shall have the name force and effect as if taken or made by or before such justice or justices of the peace.
Notaries are of very ancient origin.
They were well known among the Romans, exist in every state of Europe, particularly on the continent. Their acts have long been respected by the custom of merchants and by the courts of all nations.