The Heir Presumptive and the Heir Apparent by Mrs. Oliphant: This novel delves into the intricacies of inheritance and family dynamics, exploring the lives of the heir presumptive and the heir apparent in a wealthy family. Mrs. Oliphant weaves a compelling narrative filled with drama, secrets, and societal expectations, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of Victorian-era society. Key Aspects of the Book "The Heir Presumptive and the Heir Apparent": Inheritance and Succession: The book explores the themes of inheritance and succession, delving into the implications of being the heir presumptive and the heir apparent in a prominent family. Victorian Society: Mrs. Oliphant provides a vivid portrayal of Victorian society, with its strict social norms and expectations that influence the lives of the characters. Familial Relationships: The novel examines the complexities of familial relationships, particularly the dynamics between family members vying for positions of wealth and power. Mrs. Oliphant was the pen name of Margaret Oliphant, a prolific Scottish author and literary critic of the 19th century. Born in 1828, she wrote numerous novels, stories, and essays, contributing significantly to Victorian literature. The Heir Presumptive and the Heir Apparent showcases her talent for depicting intricate character studies and societal norms of her time.

Historical Dictionary of the British Monarchy, Second Edition contains a chronology, an introduction, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has more than 800 cross-referenced entries that cover significant events, places, institutions, and other aspects of British culture, economics, politics, and society.

This antiquarian book contains a detailed treatise on English heraldry, with information on its history, development, and popularity. Heraldry is the profession, study, or art of creating, granting, and blazoning arms and ruling on questions of rank or protocol, as exercised by an officer of the army; and also comprises the practice of designing, displaying, describing, and recording coats of arms and heraldic badges. Illustrated by nine plates and nearly three hundred designs, this volume is a comprehensive treatment of the subject that will greatly appeal to those with an interest in heraldry. The chapters of this volume include: 'The Origin of Armory', 'The Status and the Meaning of a Coat of Arms in Great Britain', 'The Heralds and Officers of Arms', 'Heraldic Brasses', 'The Component Parts of an Achievement', 'The Shield', 'The Field of a Shield and the Heraldic Tinctures', 'The Rules of Blazon', et cetera. We are republishing this vintage text now complete with a new prefatory biography of the author.