The Corporation of London, Its Rights and Privileges

"The Corporation of London, Its Rights and Privileges" by William Ferneley Allen is a journey into the heart of 19th-century London, where the ancient City's governing body stands as a fortress of tradition. The book uncovers the historical growth of the Corporation, showcasing its special rights granted by royal charters and the constant push and pull surrounding changes to how the city is run. At the beginning, Allen expresses his support for the Corporation, ready to defend its long-standing practices against those who want to change it. He emphasizes the importance of the City's history, the power of its charters bestowed by kings, and how these shape its current authority. The text also touches on London's history of resisting royal control, pointing out the ongoing fight to protect its independence as new laws threaten its old rights.