Book excerpt: "This volume is an index to the manuscript records of the Council from 1631 to 1784, in the Office of the Secretary of State. These records are comprised in eight volumes, labeled Book I, Book II, etc., and each book has been indexed entire, including some miscellaneous papers bound with the records of proceedings. Book I to Book VI inclusive are Council records of the Province of New Hampshire. From November 2, 1728, to April 5, 1742, including the administrations of Governor Burnet and of Governor Belcher; and from July 30, 1767, to December 22, 1772, during a part of the administration of Governor John Wentworth, the Council records have not been preserved. Books VII and VIII include the records of the Council during the Revolutionary period. This body, composed of twelve men, was styled a council, but in modern terms it would more appropriately be called a senate"--Introduction