Lane's instructions

To whom it may concern,

My name is Lane, the servant of Mr Algernon Moncrieff. I hope you found your way hear safely. I will be away for quite a long period of time, during this time I hope the standards that are in place in this household do not fall. I am aware that you have experience in the serving quarters but I felt that it would be a good idea and frankly quite necessary to tell you a few things about Mr Moncrieff and his... unique personality. Firstly, he has quite the appetite and tends to finish food at a remarkably fast rate, how he doesn’t suffer from indigestion is a miracle! It would be wise if you had a mental list of a few of his favourite foods. He is partial to the odd muffin and can eat a tray of cucumber sandwiches in one sitting.

                As you are the servant and he is the boss I hope you understand that what he says, goes, even if you feel you have been wronged. A mere servant doesn’t hold the authority or right to question the actions of someone of a higher class. Mr Moncrieff has a habit of telling the odd white lie. So if you find yourself in the situation were you have ‘forgotten’ to buy the cucumbers then, well you did ‘forget’ to buy the cucumber sandwiches. On the topic, I think it would be appropriate to bring up the topic of bumburying. You will most probably be oblivious to this concept but as I may be gone for quite some time, you may come across it. To put it simply bumburying refers to the young sir’s second life. From time to time Mr Moncrieff may feel that it is a necessity to pretend to be someone else. If this is the case then don’t be alarmed and let him do as he pleases.

                You may come across a few visitors during your time here. One of Mr Moncrieff’s closest friends is Mr Jack Worthing. He comes to visit Mr Moncrieff from time to time. They may bicker but they are very close, they share a brotherly relationship. Mr Moncrieff’s Aunt: Lady Bracknell also comes to visit. You will, I am sure of, have heard of her. She is quite well known in the area and is treated with the up most respect by everyone. You must NOT treat Lady Bracknell in any way that may make her feel affronted. If this is the case then it may cost you your job.

                Finally, if the situation calls for it, if you are asked to give your opinion on a subject keep it short. If this is to happen then you speak only when asked to. Mr Moncrieff doesn’t care about your personal life and wants to maintain the balance of servant and boss. He has quite the odd personality but you will soon learn to adjust, he is not your normal boss. He often acts childish but I believe this may be due to losing his parents at a young age. Treat him well and you will find your time in this household to be quite enjoyable.

All the best,

Lane