from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
RELEVANCY. By this term is understood the evidence which is applicable to
the issue joined; it is relevant when it is applicable to the issue, and
ought to be admitted; it is irrelevant, when it does not apply; and it ought
then to be excluded. 3 Hawks, 122; 4 Litt. Rep. 272; 7 Mart. Lo. R. N. S.
198. See Greenl. Ev. Sec. 49, et seq.; 1 Phil. Ev. 169; 11 S. & R. 134; 7
Wend. R. 359; 1 Rawle, R. 311; 3 Pet. R. 336; 5 Harr. & Johns. 51, 56; 1
Watts. & Serg. 362; 6 Watts. R. 266; 1 S. & R. 298.