[MR] Inter-Kingdom Retainer Program

[Ailoua De Lissi]

I would just like to say that, though I am not myself a retainer and never 
have been, I think this is a wonderful idea. It is somewhat distressing to 
find when one is planning for an event that their Majesties or any number of 
Excellencies are arriving sans retainers, and that several must be found for 
them. If we had people already trained and willing, it would make things so 
much easier on everyone, and they would never be provided with people 
uncertain of how to serve them.

Ailoua de Lissi
Deputy Chatelaine
Barony of Black Diamond

----Original Message Follows----
From: Mel <mweymark at carolina.rr.com>
To: Atlantia <atlantia at atlantia.sca.org>
Subject: [MR] Inter-Kingdom Retainer Program
Date: Mon, 17 Apr 2006 20:12:15 -0400

Greetings unto the list sends Lady Caterine St. Loe, Head retainer to
Their Excellencies of Sacred STone Marc & Alianor.

I am not sure if this has ever been proposed or if it is even a
viable possibility, but here goes.  During Sacred Stone's Baronial
Novice/Investiture I was surprised to find not only most the
attending Baronages, but also Their Majesties to be without retainers.

I would like to begin this by saying to all of you that retainer on
ANY level that you have my complete respect.

I understand that not all retainers can travel at the level of those
for which they serve.

This is why I bring this up.  Perhaps a support group of retainers
spread throughout the Kingdom could ensure that at the very least
when a Coronet or Crown is traveling and their local staff can not,
for whatever reason , attend them, the retainers in that local group
could step up.

Once set up this group could easily share ideas and solutions to
universal problems.  Or even lean on an understanding shoulder.

Now  I don't know of a Coronet that won't say "oh we don't ALWAYS
need retainers".  Since starting this job I have had dozens of people
advise me of why Coronets and Crowns need retainers and why they
should not be with out.  Ensuring each Crown and Coronet are attended
will allow not only a smoother trip for that Baronage or Crown but
also allow a retainer the honor of serving many parties.  It will
further give the visiting royalty's head retainer a contact person
for thank you notes and the like.

As I said I have the utmost respect for retainers, even more since
I've become a full time retainer myself. I believe if we worked
together we could ensure that no matter where or leaders travel they
are attended and able to do their jobs without the worry of a lack of
aid.

If anyone is interested in this prospect please let me know and I
will happily start an e-group so we can get this ball rolling.

In service
Lady Caterine St. Loe
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