Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Dispense \Dis*pense"\, v. i.
   1. To compensate; to make up; to make amends. [Obs.]

            One loving hour For many years of sorrow can
            dispense.                             --Spenser.

   2. To give dispensation.

            He [the pope] can also dispense in all matters of
            ecclesiastical law.                   --Addis &
                                                  Arnold (Cath.
                                                  Dict. )

   {To dispense with}.
      (a) To permit the neglect or omission of, as a form, a
          ceremony, an oath; to suspend the operation of, as a
          law; to give up, release, or do without, as services,
          attention, etc.; to forego; to part with.
      (b) To allow by dispensation; to excuse; to exempt; to
          grant dispensation to or for. [Obs.] ``Conniving and
          dispensing with open and common adultery.'' --Milton.
      (c) To break or go back from, as one's word. [Obs.]
          --Richardson.