Published in 1968: While giving a lucid account of the functions and difficulties of the office of Principal Secretary, the author shows clearly how the retention of this position was a characteristic example of the English habit of clinging to old forms in political matters long after these forms have ceased to bear any relationship to reality.

Mark A. Thomson

1. Scotland, Ireland, and The Colonies 2. Army and Navy 3. Foreign Affairs 4. Domestic Affiars 5. The Secretaries' Office and Emoluments, Secret Service, and Gazette 6. Conclusion