The papers provide a most useful insight into the working of both administrations, comprising as they do some of Perceval's most intimate political correspondence both as chancellor of the exchequer under Portland (1807-9) and subsequently as prime minister (1809-12). All the major events of the day are considered, including the scandals surrounding the princess of Wales and the duke of York, the ill-fated military expedition to Walcheren in 1809, George III's recurring mental illness, and the formation of a regency in 1811. There are very frank letters from the king, queen, and prince and princess of Wales, as well as from Lords Liverpool and Eldon, and many other leading politicians. Perhaps most interesting of all are the drafts of Perceval's own letters, which provide a revealing insight into the workings of a prime minister's mind, and the substantial correspondence detailing the formation of his ministry in September and October 1809. The collection well illustrates the conventions observed in transacting business and shaping policy in an early-nineteenth century administration.