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 his 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.