MASTER of the Horse is reckoned the third great officer of the court, and is an office of great honour and antiquity, and always (when not put in commission) filled by noblemen of the highest rank and abilities. He has the management and disposal of all the king's stables and bred horses. He has authority over the equestrians and pages, coachmen, footmen, grooms, riders of the great horse, farriers, and smiths. He appoints all the other tradesmen who work for the king's stables; and by his warrant to the avenor, makes them give an oath to be true and faithful. In short, he is