The copy is written in a formal hand on alternate leaves, the others being left blank for notes and additions, which have been added at various times until 1842 (folio 79 verso), or possibly later.

Stitched in at folio 7 is a `List of ancient Peerages to be met with in the Registers of Parliament` in Riddell`s hand (folio 1). A note (folio 9) formerly stitched to folio 7 verso has been tipped in at folio 11. A letter of Lord Lindsay to Riddell, 1855, which was formerly pinned to folio 18, has been tipped in at folio 21. Two printed lists of the Nobility of Scotland in circa 1595 (folio 177) and in 1602 (folio 181) are stitched to folio 176 verso and folio 183 respectively. A `Memorial and Queries for Sir Colin Mackenzie Bart’, 1842 (folio 197) is stitched to folio 199. A transcript (folio 201) of a document, 1633, of David Lord Lindsay of Balcarres is stitched to folio 200 verso, and a transcript (folio 203) of a document, 1661, of Alexander, Earl of Balcarres is stitched to folio 207. A letter, 1815 (folio 213) of Orby Hunter to Riddell formerly folded up and stitched to folio 216 verso has been unfolded and tipped in at folio 217. Two leaves stuck together make up folio ii.