Exchequer

c.1300, from Anglo-Norman escheker "a chessboard," from Middle Latin scaccarium (see check). Its government financial sense began under the Norman kings of England and refers to a cloth divided in squares that covered a table on which accounts of revenue were reckoned with counters. Respelled with an -x- based on the mistaken belief that it was originally a Latin ex- word.

After Rome: Holy War and Conquest

How do you know you're living in the right city? When your Mayor appears on tele as the presenter of a two-part historical documentary investigating the clash of civilizations between Christianity and Islam. Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson is not your typical politician and I was pleasantly surprised to see him mingling with academics in search of a viable reason on why Islam is hated by many in the West. Unfortunately, only two episodes were produced because the Beeb commissioned the programme just as the Mayoral election campaign was hotting up. But I'd still recommend it, especially if you're interested in understanding the impact the Muslims have had on the world, particularly in Europe during the peak of the Islamic Golden Age. The second-episode has yet to be broadcast but both episodes will be available on BBC iPlayer for British residents for a couple weeks. The rest of you should be able to torrent or YT it in due course.

My Tryst With Footballing Destiny - A Trip To Anfield, The Home of Liverpool FC

Don't let the smile fool you. Liverpool have just been held to a frustrating goalless draw by lowly Fulham FC. As the players disperse, the Merseyside Police infiltrate the pitch to maintain spectator law and order. An unforgettable experience, despite a disappointing result.

( 19 More Pictures from the Footie )