KEEPER of the privy seal, is also a lord by his office, through whose hands all grants, pardons, &c. pass before they come to the great seal, and even some things pass this officer's hands which do not pass the great seal at all. This officer is also one of the privy council, yet was anciently called clerk of the privy seal. His duty is to put the seal to no grant, &c. without a proper warrant; nor with warrant where it is against law, or inconvenient, but shall first acquaint the king therewith.