This collection amalgamates a diverse array of literary styles, ranging from verbatim court records to impassioned political analyses, thereby offering a multi-faceted view of the events and ideological battles of the era.

Arthur Thistlewood and three other Spencean leaders were arrested and charged with high treason as a result of the riot; James Watson was on trial during June 1817 with Messrs Wetherell and Copley as their defence counsel.