This is a nineteenth century 'Monitor' of the American Knights Templar. This is a Masonic organization which has its own distinctive rituals and regalia. While they are not connected directly to the Medieval Templars, they carry on the knightly ideals by charitable works, and sponsoring Masonic youth groups. Shibboleth is similar in format and organization to other 19th century Masonic literature such as Duncan's Masonic Ritual and Monitor, including the funky woodcuts and 19th century atmosphere. Mixed in with this is historical material on the Templars, stories from the Bible, songs, poetry, sermons, a lot of blank forms for all occasions, and bits of advice. For instance, 'Hints on Templar Banquets' (Quote from sacred-texts.com) About the Author Mary Robinson, nee Darby (1757 - 26 December 1800) the English poet and novelist, was also known for her role as Perdita (heroine of Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale) in 1779. It was during this performance that she attracted the notice of the young Prince of Wales, later King George IV of Great Britain and Ireland. Her affair with him ended in 1781, and "Perdita" Robinson was left to support herself through an annuity granted by the Crown (in return for some letters written by the Prince) in 1783 and through her writings. Today, she is remembered both as the first public mistress of George IV, and as a woman writer of the late 18th century. (Quote from (Quote from (Quote from (Quote from wikipedia.org) ) ) ) About the Publisher Forgotten Books is a publisher of historical writings, such as: Philosophy, Classics, Science, Religion, History, Folklore and Mythology. http://www.forgottenbooks.org