The art of Butling and Valeting has all but gone by the wayside and men like Jeeves are a dying breed. Those of you who recall Wodehouse's satires about the hapless Bertie Wooster and his faithful (and long-suffering) valet, Jeeves may understand the usefulness and elegance that a gentleman's gentleman provides. They were the forerunner to the P.A. and took care of the necessary quotidian tasks to ensure one could go about one's business with ease, comfort and style.
A valet is not to be confused with a butler, who was the chief of staff of a household, corraling herds of footmen, under-butlers, and other sundry staff into timely action.
A valet's duties were many...
Oh for a gentleman's gentleman...
