Anglo-Ind. [a. Arab. qaul word, promise, bargain, compact, which ‘has become technical in the Indian vernaculars, owing to the prevalence of Mohammedan Law’ (Yule).] A written engagement; a lease or grant in writing; a safe-conduct or amnesty.
1688. in Wheeler, Madras (1861), I. 176 (Y.). The President has by private correspondence procured a Cowle for renting the Town and customs of S. Thomé.
1799. Baird, in Owen, Wellesley’s Desp., 128. I requested Major Allen … to proceed with a flag of truce to the palace, and offer Cowle to Tippoo Sultaun … on his unconditional surrender.
1803. Wellington, in Gurw., Desp., II. 193. On my arrival in the neighbourhood of the pettah I offered cowle to the inhabitants.
b. Comb., as cowle-flag.
1799. Harris, in Owen, Wellesley’s Desp., 100. Cowle flags shall be distributed over the country, and safe-guards sent to all the villages.
1799. Wellington, in Gurw., Desp., I. 39. Cowle flags were hoisted in different parts of the town.
