The book provides a detailed accounting of many of the trials associated with developing the tools and techniques of spycraft - from learning how to record and transmit or transport reports from the field back to headquarters to finding cover identities and companies with which to hide assets in plain sight. Even the Import/Export business used by James Bond's MI-6 was first used by the real MI-6 long before World War I!
Though the text does get dense and mired in detail at times, I honestly think Jefferey's book should be required reading for any student of history or individual seeking to learn more about how MI-6 began. As events unfold through the years, I gained a new perspective on key events leading to World War I and II and the aftermath of each. The Secret History of MI6 is an incredible read. Perhaps in another fifty years or so we can read more about MI-6 history from 1950 to 9/11 and beyond!
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