[f. vbl. phrase let pass: see LET v.1] A permission to pass; a permit.
1635. Coke, in Strafford’s Lett. (1739), I. 423. The Abuse of Let-Passes.
1647. Sprigge, Anglia Rediv. (1854), 65. Having seen the petitions upon which a Let-pass is desired.
1657. W. Morice, Coena quasi Κοινὴ, Def. xxiv. 243. Suffering none to come to the Sacrament without their Let-passe.
1767. T. Hutchinson, Hist. Mass. (1768), II. 357. All vessels took from the governor a let pass.
1776. Adam Smith, W. N., V. ii. II. (1869), II. 498. Without requiring any permit or let-pass.
1792. Act 32 Geo. III., c. 50 § 2. Nothing … shall … require any letpass … where the ship … does not go to open sea.
1867. Smyth, Sailor’s Word-bk., Let-pass, permission given by superior authority to a vessel, to be shown to ships of war, to allow it to proceed on its voyage.
