In this study, the author discusses the influence of the seventeenth-century sheriff of England on the local political institutions of the American colonies he has chosen for study, with particular attention to Virginia and Maryland. He has used resources both in this country and in England for his material and has included documents to illustrate points made in his discussion. Originally published in 1930. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.