An essay is presented in which the author discusses the history of paper making in the 18th century in Great Britain, focusing on the papers used to print the works of poet and illustrator William Blake, such as the illuminated book "Songs of Innocence." Countermarks and watermarks are mentioned, as well as paper makers such as James Whatman Jr., Robert Edmeads, and Thomas Pine. Paper mills, books versus pamphlets, and makers such as Charles Ball are also mentioned.