ould go like a gentleman." People do not dress their servants in rags. (See Livery.) Servants are not democrats. In general, they approve of the social order, just like their masters. And they intend to take advantage of it. A servant in a fine house expects (if he is clever) to rise in the world, improve his fortunes, and create an even better place for his children. A stable groom might aspire to become butler or steward in the same or a greater house. The pot boy might hope one day to be chief cook. Servants take money from anyone. They will accept a vail (tip) for any service rendered. ("Here's a penny to drink my health.") Or a douceur (sweetener) for favors requested. They expect to be vailed for delivering a gift or message. Their masters are aware of this, and do it themselves to other people's servants. It is not considered dishonest unless loyalties become confused and compromised. The good servant, like a good waiter, is attentive. The best servant is a little bit psychic. He is there when you need him but never hovers. He finds some virtuous occupation when you disappear. He is neither lewd nor vain, but maintains a respectable countenance, to the credit of his master. He is modest but never craven, humble but never base, candid but not insolent. The good master is proud but never despotic. He is patient, governing his household with fatherly care. He does not twist your sincere desire to serve into a sincere desire to punch him out. He lets you do your job. He maintains his superior station, as God has given it him, by honorable behavior, not by argument. Ranks and Files The ordinary ranking of the English Court, disregarding various offices, parents, patents, or orders of knighthood is as follows: Men WomenDuke DuchessMarquis (MAR-kwis) Marchioness (MAR-shon-ess)Earl CountessViscount (vEYE-count) Viscountess (vEYE-count-ess)Baron BaronessKnight Knight's ladyRoyalty refers only to the monarch and his/her immediate family. ...
