Carl’s Reviews > The Secret World: A History of Intelligence > Status Update
Carl
is on page 53 of 875
Interesting Roman/Greek attitudes toward spying. Both did it, a bit. But both also believed in oracles, divination, etc. So, if there was intel suggesting ATTACK and there were chicken entrails saying HOLD TIGHT, ti was not always the intel that won out. Caesar was different--no respect for oracles and divination. Enlightened. But then again, he would have been better off had he heeded BEWARE THE IDES OF MARCH.
— Jan 17, 2020 05:03PM
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Carl’s Previous Updates
Carl
is on page 430 of 875
Marriage continues to unravel. Vida wants no part of sex with Tom, doesn't get along with his children. Her son Peter is enamored with Tom's eldest, Stuart, who is enamored with Asian philosophy, medicine, etc. Not too many books that deal with this "blended family" dynamic.
— Jan 02, 2026 03:54PM
Carl
is on page 241 of 875
Intelligence and Regime Change in Britain: the role of intelligence in the execution of Charles I, the rule of Cromwell, and the return of Charles II. Definitely a high time for spies. Ends with "Popish Plot," a plot to assassinate Charles II that Oates dreamed up to further his own career. Many "plotters" were executed before the fraudulent nature of all the charges were revealed.
— Dec 26, 2020 07:05PM
Carl
is on page 226 of 875
Charles I beheaded; Cromwell trying to stave off return of Charles II in exile. Cyphers, intercepted letters.
— Dec 24, 2020 07:26PM
Carl
is on page 30 of 875
Prologue: Intel as ignored in history books. Interesting facts so far. 1) Waterboarding first used in Inquisition. 2) CIA interference in Latin America and elsewhere well documented. KGB interference probably even greater, but they keep secrets better.
— Jan 14, 2020 03:35PM
