[Vocabulary] without a reference

[Mnemon]

Don't mention that ingrate! He's left my employment...without a reference!

Merlin movie 1998

I've seen the definition of the word "reference" in a couple of online dictionaries, but I'm still rather irresolute as to what it means in this sentence. Could someone help me understand the part in bold?

Thanks.

 

[probus]

Here reference is short for reference letter or letter of reference, which is something an employer may give to an employee recommending them to potential future employers.

 

[Mnemon]

Many thanks. Just one more question. I personally have never seen a reference letter up close, but I'm quite familiar with a recommendation letter. Do they mean the same thing?

 

[tedmc]

Merlin movie 1998

I've seen the definition of the word "reference" in a couple of online dictionaries, but I'm still rather irresolute as to what it means in this sentence. Could someone help me understand the part in bold?

Thanks.

I'm not sure about the use of the word in bold but I would say unclear/uncertain/doubtful.

It is also called a testimonial, which is a letter attesting to the working experience and character of an employee, meant for prospective employers.
I think a letter of recommendation is more specific, to support a candidate for a certain job.