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Black book

1. One of several books of a political character, published at different times and for different purposes; so called either from the colour of the binding, or from the character of the contents.

2. A book compiled in the twelfth century, containing a description of the court of exchequer of England, an official statement of the revenues of the crown, etc.

3. A book containing details of the enormities practiced in the english monasteries and religious houses, compiled by order of their visitors under henry VIII, to hasten their dissolution.

4. A book of admiralty law, of the highest authority, compiled in the reign of Edw. III.

5. A book kept for the purpose of registering the names of persons liable to censure or punishment, as in the english universities, or the english armies.

6. Any book which treats of necromancy.