Originally published in 1936, this book contains a detailed investigation of the ideas and theories behind the forms of fifteenth-century English government, reaching conclusions regarding the 'spirit' of the constitution. The text is divided into four large chapters: 'The Estate of King', 'The Nature of Parliament', 'Statutory Law and Judicial Discretion' and 'The Theory of the State'. Extensive notes, appendices and a bibliography are also provided. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in fifteenth-century history, political history and the development of the English constitution.