White begins this historical mystery with a summary of the physical description and contextual importance of the complete Vulgate manuscript known as the Codex Amiatinus. Working from the dedicatory verses of the volume he gathers evidence as he traces the manuscript through the hands of previous scholars concerned with dating this document. He also examines the listing of the biblical books and illustrations within the manuscript, comparing Amiatinus with other authorities, especially Cassiodorus. Even the Venerable Bede is brought into this historical puzzle. When all the evidence is in, White considers it indisputable that the date of the manuscript belongs around the eighth century. An appendix by W. Sanday addresses the Italian origin of the codex and the localization of Italian manuscripts.

Henry Julian White (1859-1934) was a noted Latinist and New Testament scholar. He eventually became Dean of Christ Church College, Oxford University.