2. the ex-warden.
Before every feast, then, think what people are coming, and settle what their order of precedence is to be.
If in doubt, ask your lord or the chief officer, and then you’ll do wrong to no one, but set all according to their birth and dignity.
Now I have told you of Court Manners, how to manage in Pantry, Buttery, Carving, and as Sewer, and Marshal, as I learnt with a Royal Prince whose Usher and Marshal I was.
All other officers have to obey me.
Our office is the chief, whether the Cook likes it or not.
All these offices may be filled by one man, but a Prince’s dignity requires each office to have its officer, and a servant under him, (all knowing their duties perfectly) to wait on their Lord and please his guests.
Don’t fear to serve a prince; take good heed to your duties, watch, and you need not fear.
Tasting is done only for those of royal blood, as a Pope, King, Duke, and Earl: not below.
Tasting is done for fear of poison; therefore keep your room secure, and close your safe, for fear of tricks.