William Johnson Neale (1812-1893), whose full name was William Johnstoun Nelson Neale, entered the navy in 1824, and for his services on board the Talbot at the battle of Navarino in 1827 was awarded a medal. In 1833 he became a student of Lincoln's Inn, but subsequently migrated to the Middle Temple, where he was called to the bar in 1836. He went the Oxford circuit, and practised also at Shropshire and Staffordshire sessions. In 1859 he was appointed recorder of Walsall. He was married in 1846 to Frances Herbert, daughter of Captain Josiah Nisbet, R.N., and eldest grandchild and coheiress of Viscountess Nelson.
His work may also be listed under the pseudonyms William Johnstoun N. Neale or Capt. W. Johnson Neale. His work is not copyright in many countries and is available as a free eBook.