from
Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)
WRIT DE ODIO ET ATIA, Eng. law. This writ is probably obsolete, and
superseded by the writ of habeas corpus. It was anciently directed to the
sheriff, commanding him to inquire whether a prisoner charged with murder
was committed upon just cause or suspicion, or merely propter odium et
atiam, for hatred and ill-will; and, if upon the inquisition due cause of
suspicion did not appear, then there issued another writ for the sheriff to
admit him to bail, 3 Bl. Com. 128; Com. Dig. Imprisonment, L 3.