Every year the meaning of the word "valet" is gradually erased from our memory. If older people still remember him, then the younger generation only blinks in surprise when they hear him in a fleeting conversation or stumble upon him in a historical book. But in the past, some people were even ready to make a deal with the devil, just to get a job as a valet.
Meaning of the word
A valet is a room servant with a we althy master. Often, such servants were brought in by nobles and monarchs, so that they were always at hand and helped them with routine matters. For example, the valet had to take care of his master's clothes, his bed, luggage, parcels, and so on.
Sometimes it even got to the point that this servant took on most of the financial transactions. He paid bills, settled accounts with workers, carried out secret missions and bribed the right people.
A valet is more than a servant
Of course, the nobles did not take just anyone. After all, a valet is more than a servant. This is a person who is always next to his master, which means he knows all his secrets. Therefore, the nobles hired only proven people, in whose ability to keep their mouths shut they did not doubt.
But especially carefully selected candidates for the position of valet serving with the royal family. At the same time, young monarchs received such a servant at the age of seven, so that by their coming of age they could say exactly whether such a servant suits them or not.
Privileges and disadvantages
A valet is a forced person. Having assumed this position, he pledged to serve his master until his death, which limited his freedom. In addition, the well-being of the valet directly depended on the temper of the nobleman. So, there are cases in history when angry aristocrats beat their servants even for minor errors.
However, many were happy to take the risk anyway. After all, such a service allowed them to live in luxury. In addition, the salary of the valet was quite enough to start a family and provide her with everything necessary.
