Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Downton Abbey: Rules for Household Staff with Introduction by Carson



Downton Abbey: Rules for Household Staff with Introduction by Carson - 128 pages

This small book explains the roles, rules, and hierarchy of the household staff. Working below stairs in a grand estate required extreme organization of duties, dedicated staff and long hours. 

The nuances of nonverbal communication between the Butler and Footman during a meal, how to fold napkins and set the table, hold the food tray and serve wine are explained.  Interesting, but archaic ways to clean clothing and fur stoles, cleaning specific items such dinner forks (tines cleaned in a gritty substance) and first aid and medical drinks are detailed.   Just what is the precedence seating upper class guests at the table? I'd be happy to just go for tea. 


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