To many readers M. R. James (1862-1936) is best known as the author of four collections of superb ghost stories, beginning with Ghost Stories of an Antiquary (1904). For scholars his name is associated with outstanding and extensive work in the fields of palaeography, biblical scholarship, medieval studies, and bibliography. In 'a life of quiet distinction', as the author of this new biography describes it, Montague Rhodes James - 'Monty' to his numerous friends and admirers - became Provost of King's College, Cambridge and of Eton, the two institutions that captured his heart and that form the backdrop to this story.