An inquiry into how, in Victorian England, Abraham Hayward, a man from a modest rural background, without a university education, makes his mark in London Society, becomes a barrister and a Queen's Counsel and a successful writer, political commentator, journalist and essayist. The book examines his sometimes difficult relationships with others which affects the course of his life and examines the extent of his political influence with Prime Ministers and other leading figures. Also discussed are Hayward's rapport with intellectual women writers and female members of the aristocracy and his...

The wartime letters and diaries of Flt Lt Henry Chessell are a piece of social history. Although they do not have the excitement of battles fought and won on foreign fields and there is no smell of cordite, the personal records of war on the home front, set against the backdrop of international events, give a good impression of the slow, relentless, grind and struggle of the civilian population over six years of war. They also give a tantalizing glimpse of the contribution made to the war effort by some of the unseen 'backroom' R.A.F. and inter-service units that were working under a cloak of...

A subjective journey down the Rivers Breamish and Till in Northumberland, from the source of the Breamish in the Cheviot Hills to the junction of the Till and the River Tweed at Tillmouth. The book looks at archaeology, history, flora and fauna, geology and things that just appealed to the author on an 'as and when' basis. The aim of the book is to provide background information in relation to the area of study mentioned in the Constitution of the Till Valley Archaeological Society, information that will also be of interest to the general reader who likes the countryside of north...

This book describes some of the ancient, veteran and notable trees in Coldstream and the surrounding area, selected by the author for their age, historical connections, location or appearance and gives information on their setting within the Scottish Borders. It is not a botanical guide although it lists scientific names throughout and gives information on native and non-native species and the usefulness of the selected trees for ornamental and practical purposes. Above all, it is a potterers guide for people interested in their surroundings.
Foreword by Lady Caroline Douglas-Home, MBE

A journey down the Leet Water from its source in Whitsome through Swinton to its confluence with the River Tweed at Coldstream in the Scottish Borders. The book deals with the varied topography, geology, history, archaeology and wildlife along the route and the text is accompanied by many maps and photographs. The book is aimed at a wide readership including walkers, animal and bird watchers, local history enthusiasts, 'potterers' and armchair map readers. The described route provides scope for photographers.