Secret societies have been around since civilisation began and come in many guises. They may be set up by selfish and criminal elements of society, whose object is to enrich and empower themselves at the expense of their fellow citizens; others are composed of high minded idealists. The only thing they have in common is their desire to keep their secrets. This is a comprehensive and fascinating history that sheds some light on why such societies began and will always exist. 02/06/03 PUBLICATION ON HOLD - NO NEW DATE.