The Ford Master Parts Catalog calls this "Bracket - Clutch Release Lever Retracting Spring". This little "L" shaped bracket is found only on 1967 - 1968 Mercury Cougars and Ford Mustangs with a 3 or 4 speed manual transmissions. When people part out early Cougars they often leave this little detail item behind not fully understanding its function or rarity. Stood on end its length at the very longest point is 3 1/4". Its function is to but tension on your equalizer bar when it is in its relaxed position so as the eliminate rattles and unnecessary wear and tear. See related items for a reproduction version of this bracket. Ford master part number C7ZZ-7542-A.
*NOTE - The 69-70 did not utilize this bracket because the tensioning spring was attached to the bracket that the steering column passes through.