Dr Paul Albury had more than an interest in Bahamian history, and more than an affection for it; his attachment to the subject was obviously a case of true love. In The Bahamas, he was well known as an active member of the Bahamas Historical Society, of which he became President, as well as a speaker and writer. By the use of these media, he endeavoured, for many years, to impart to his fellow Bahamians some of his own enthusiasm for this fascinating study. Readers and listeners, who have delighted with Dr Albury's stories on various aspects of our checkered past, have frequently expressed the hope that one day he would put it all together in book form. And for some years now he has let it be known that he planned to do that. This book was greeted with pleasure and satisfaction rather than surprise.