![]() ![]() A servant was never considered a proper companion – servants could often be bribed to disappear and were therefore not a suitable protector for a lady’s reputation.They were also hired simply to entertain and spend time with them. For unmarried spinsters or widows, the companion was more of a helper, someone to do all the little things the lady did not wish to, or could not, carry out.They were responsible for guarding their charges reputation and ensuring they only socialised with suitable people. For a single female, such as a young debutante with only male relatives, the companion was usually older.In order to venture into society with their employer, they must be well-educated and have good manners. A companion could not be just some trumped up servant.Often, they were a poor relation who relied on the kindness of their extended family, and in return they acted as a companion. Companions were usually members of the gentry who had fallen on hard times and were forced to find employment. A companion was of similar, genteel background to their employer, if a little lower in social standing.What qualifications did a companion need? These women were either young and unmarried, and did not have a close female relative to accompany them when they were out and about needed a chaperone, or older, unmarried or widowed, ladies also needed someone to act as their companion. With such a myriad of choices, who can blame her when she decides to become a lady’s companion? But what did that involve?Ī lady’s companion was hired when a wealthy lady required a guardian for her reputation. In return, he would support her financially, until he decides to find someone else to take on the role.) Her other options are to become a governess/teacher or a lady’s companion. ![]() (Basically, she would allow him access to her body whenever he wished. She could seek the protection of a wealthy gentleman and become his courtesan. Well, there were not many employment options for a woman. So, what does a woman with a first-class, modern education do? In Lydia’s case, marriage is out of the question. With nothing, and as a single woman, she has two options: In my time travel series, my heroine, Lydia Harding, is transported back in time to 1813 and must find a way to support herself. ![]()
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