to protest a bill

Protest \Pro*test"\, v. t.
   1. To make a solemn declaration or affirmation of; to
      proclaim; to display; as, to protest one's loyalty.
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            I will protest your cowardice.        --Shak.
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   2. To call as a witness in affirming or denying, or to prove
      an affirmation; to appeal to.
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            Fiercely [they] opposed
            My journey strange, with clamorous uproar
            Protesting fate supreme.              --Milton.
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   {To protest a bill} or {To protest a note} (Law), to make a
      solemn written declaration, in due form, on behalf of the
      holder, against all parties liable for any loss or damage
      to be sustained by the nonacceptance or the nonpayment of
      the bill or note, as the case may be. This should be made
      by a notary public, whose seal it is the usual practice to
      affix. --Kent. --Story.
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