Dedicated to Sue Courtier, who was the great enthusiast and dealer in South West England, it presents a broad view of lesser known writing materials and implements. The author emphasises that it is a book for beginners but this book considers many items that have not been dealt with before in antique collector circles. For example there are few sources of information about bougie boxes, wax jacks, seals stick holders, nibbers, wafers and desk lights. The book follows a sequence of preparing to write a letter to the despatch and final receipt and adds diversions on collecting materials and understanding procedures, which is both illuminating and interesting. As number four in his monograph series, this is probably the most comprehensive, packed with details, information and some exquisite illustrations. A must for any writing equipment collector