I am sorry I am just now answering Carolyn's question of Oct 29th. She wanted to know what the balance books tell us in response to some abstracts I sent the list on Sept 30, 1999. I quote from V.L. Skinner, Jr.: "The Probate records of the Prerogative court of MD contain several types of records: testamentary proceedings, wills, administration accounts, inventories, inventories & accounts, & distributions. Each kind of record has value for the genealogist. Prior to 1777, all probate records were required to be filed with the Prerogative Court of MD. The Balance Books are a separate series of probate records established in 1751 and continued until 1777. They are closely aligned with the accounts whereas, the accounts are a citation of payments from the estate (and in some cases, distributions). The Balance Books show how the remainder of the estate had been distributed to the heirs or representatives, after all of the payments had been made." Hope that helps with understanding the books. Ginny Toney