esquires

It is to be noted for example that many of the "esquiers" of 1369, practically all of the "esquiers des offices" [Footnote: For indication of their function see p. 14 etc.], and the "esquiers survenantz" of 1368 are not called esquires in the list of 1368, the Patent Rolls, Close

Chaucer's Official Life James Root Hulbert 1926

In most of the great houses of the time the esquires were the especial attendants upon the Lord and Lady of the house, holding such positions as body-squires, cup-bearers, carvers, and sometimes the office of chamberlain.

Men of Iron 1891

In most of the great houses of the time the esquires were the especial attendants upon the Lord and Lady of the house, holding such positions as body-squires, cup-bearers, carvers, and sometimes the office of chamberlain.

Men of Iron Howard Pyle 1882

And now the postal authorities will tell you that the number of the "esquires" not carrying arms, not having so much as a leg to stand on (in the matter of legal claims), is something "awful!"

The Bed-Book of Happiness Harold Begbie 1900

It is to be noted for example that many of the “esquiers "of 1369, practically all of the “esquiers des offices” [Footnote: For indication of their function see p. 14 etc.], and the “esquiers survenantz” of 1368 are not called esquires in the list of 1368, the Patent Rolls, Close Rolls, Issue Rolls or Fine Rolls.

Chaucer's Official Life Hulbert, James Root, 1884- 1912

Within this elite there were gradations which, in ascending order, were gentlemen, esquires and knights and then the hereditary peerage.

'Aristocrats' 2010

Since she has flown as a child, she scoffs at those esquires who do not have a natural talent for flying.

The Road Not Taken · The Dragon Whisperer 2009

More and more dragons are lost in battle, and esquires cannot be trained fast enough to take to the skies.

The Road Not Taken · The Dragon Whisperer 2009

The esquires of the combatants now approached, and delivered to each his shield and lance, assisting to hang the former around his neck, that his two hands might remain free, one for the management of the bridle, the other to direct the lance.

The Talisman 2008

Setting aside assassinations and poisonings, I speak only of massacres in a juridical form, performed with loyalty and ceremony; I commence with kings and queens; England alone furnishes an ample list; but for chancellors, knights, and esquires, volumes are required.

A Philosophical Dictionary 2007