The Secret Scripture

For Margaret Synge

'The greatest imperfection is in our inward sight, that is, to be ghosts unto our own eyes.'

Sir Thomas Browne, Christian Morals

'Of the numbers who study, or at least read history, how few derive any advantage from their labours!…Besides, there is much uncertainty even in the best authenticated ancient and modern histories; and that love of truth, which in some minds is innate and immutable, necessarily leads to a love of secret memoirs and private anecdotes.'

Maria Edgeworth, Preface to Castle Rackrent