The papers in this volume, which include three left unpublished at the time of Professor Offler's death in 1991, cover the period from the 9th to the 14th centuries; They well exemplify Offler's command of historical narrative and his technical skills as a historian. Their main concern is with the northernmost counties of England, in particular with the diocese of Durham and the activities of its bishops, but some cross the border into Scottish history. Many provide a careful evaluation of crucial documentary evidence for the period; others give vivid reconstructions of particular personalities or events.