What does "tributer" mean?

Tributer: One who works for a certain portion of the ore, or its value. [Eng.] Note: Tributers generally work in gangs, and have a limited portion of a lode set them, called a tribute pitch, beyond which they are not permitted to work, and for which they receive a certain portion of the ore, or so much per pound, as agreed upon, of the value of what they raise. Weale.