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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Coutts
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One of the oldest of the *clearing banks and by far the smallest, with only 19 branches in 1992. Its headquarters have been at various addresses in the Strand, in London, ever since John Campbell set up as a goldsmith and banker there in 1692. In 1755 James Coutts married Campbell's niece. He later secured George III as a customer, since when Coutts have remained bankers to the royal family. The bank retains some time-hallowed customs; managers wear frock coats (a formal garment of the 19C) and a few traditionally-minded customers still begin letters to the bank with the single word 'Gentlemen'.
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