The notes include research and working notes as well as editorial notes of Rankin. Also included are editorial notes of Caroline Oakley (Folios 75-102).

Some of the notes include references to specific drafts, including first and second drafts. Otherwise, the distinction between the notes and drafts is often unclear, as most of the notes are undated, and some notes have been revisited and subsequently annotated by Rankin as his development of the novel progressed. As far as possible, evidence of changes in theme and plot have been used to inform the arrangement.