A man, for instance, who has built a cotton mill with his own money, pledges the mill as security for a loan, that is, he gives his creditor a right to sell the mill unless the debt is paid when required.
"Political economy"
W. Stanley Jevons
Bocleuch, in a few dayes after, had his pledges delivered, and was set at liberty.
"Minstrelsy of the Scottish border (3rd ed) (1 of 3)"
Walter Scott
The chieftains of the principal clans were also obliged to grant pledges for their future obedience.
"Minstrelsy of the Scottish border (3rd ed) (1 of 3)"
Walter Scott