1898. Holden writes that half the point of history is lost unless it is studied in its details. To comprehend its details (especially in the period from the Crusades to the French Revolution) an accurate knowledge of heraldry is a material aid. They are emblazoned everywhere; on stained-glass windows, over the doors, even on the locks, on coaches and on liveries. What was true in 1688 is also true today. The seals of countries, provinces and states are heraldic; so are their flags. Coins and medals are stamped with heraldic emblems; each government department or office has its seal; cities, corporations, colleges, universities, employ seals and devices, as do societies and individuals. Heraldry is a doctrine which has to do with all these things, and it is interesting and advantageous to know something of it.