This section is from "The American Cyclopaedia", by George Ripley And Charles A. Dana. Also available from Amazon: The New American Cyclopędia. 16 volumes complete..
Alb, a vestment of white linen or linen and lace, reaching to the feet, and bound around the waist by a cincture, worn by sub-deacons and all the superior orders of the clergy in the Roman Catholic church, while officiating in the more solemn functions of divine service.
 
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