from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
COURSE OF TRADE. What is usually done in the management of trade or
business.
2. Men are presumed to act for their own interest, and to pursue the
way usually adopted by men generally; hence it is presumed in law, that men
in their actions will pursue the usual course of trade. For this reason it
is presumed that a bank note was signed before it was issued, though the
signature be torn off. 2 Rob. Lo. R. 112. That one having possession of a
bill of exchange upon him, has paid it; that one who pays an order or draft
upon him, pays out of the funds of the drawer in his hands. But the case is
different where the order is for the delivery of goods, they being presumed
to have been sold by the drawee to the drawer. 9 Wend. 323; 1 Greenl. Ev.
Sec. 38.