MS 185 is an extended version of the Brut Chronicle. The original was an Anglo-Norman chronicle that ended its account in 1272. This Anglo-Norman version was translated into Latin and Middle English during the middle ages, and many manuscripts continued the account beyond 1272. MS 185 is one such extended version, to 1419.

The text begins on f. 1r with Here begynneth a bok which is called Brute, the cronyculis of England. This heading is followed by a brief introductory statement, that begins with This book declare[th] and telli[th] of [th]e kyngis and princepal lordis... On the same folio (f. 1r) the prologue begins: The prolog of [th]is book declarith how [th]is land was callid Albyoun...

Still on f. 1r the text of the chronicle begins, with the line Sumtyme in [th]e noble lond of Surry... The chronicle ends with with the year 1419, on f. 125r with and rested hym in [th]e castell till [th]e cyte wer sette in good rule and governaunce. Deo gracias.

A fair, characteristic English hand with plain red capitals. The first folio is soiled, six leaves are missing, and the edges much mended.