Mercantile agency. Same as commercial agency: a concern which with the cooperation of
merchants, manufacturers, bankers and others ascertains, records and makes known to its
patrons or subscribers the financial standing, general business reputation and credit ratings of
individuals, firms and corporations engaged in mercantile and industrial enterprises.  In addition it
compiles reports on the state of trade and on commercial and financial operations generally,
including records of failures, judgments, etc.