--The word is derived from the Low Latin
"_gromettus_", the original of our "groom" (see Ducange's, _Gromes_
and _Gromus_), and answers to the old French _gourmete_, i.e.
_garcon_. In old books he is sometimes called a "novice" or "page,"
and may be compared with the "apprentice" of our marine. He was
employed in waiting on the sailors, cooking their victuals, working
the pumps, scouring the decks, and, in short, was expected to lend
a hand wherever he was wanted, except taking the helm (Clairac,
_Commentaire du premier Article des Rooles d'Oleron_); and,
consequently, is always distinguished from, and rated below, the
mariner or able-bodied seaman.
The information here given is taken from Jal, _Archeologie navale_,
vol. ii. p. 238.
A. RICH, Jun.
* * * * *
MISCELLANIES.
_The Duke of Monmouth_.--I made the following note many years ago,
and am now reminded of its existence by your admirable periodical,
which must rouse many an idler besides myself to a rummage amongst
long-neglected old papers.
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