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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Order of Merit
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An unusual *order of chivalry in that it ranks very high (after the Garter, the Thistle and the Bath) but does not confer knighthood; members, limited to 24 British men and women plus an occasional honorary foreigner, merely place OM after their names. Instituted in 1902 by Edward VII, and in the personal gift of the sovereign, it is intended for those who have made an 'exceptionally meritorious' contribution in any field, with a stated emphasis on 'the Arts, Learning, Literature and Science'. The scientists in the first dozen appointments were of undeniable distinction (they included Joseph *Lister and William *Thomson), but the first artist has lasted less well – G.F. *Watts. Florence *Nightingale was the first woman to be appointed, in 1907.
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