MASTER of the Ceremonies, is an officer instituted by King James I. for the more solemn and honourable reception of ambassadors, and strangers of quality, whom he introduces into the presence.—The badge of this office is a gold chain and medal, having on one side an emblem of peace, with King James's motto; and on the reverse the emblem of war, with Dieu et mon droit. He is always supposed to be a person of good address, and a master of languages, and has an appointment of 300l. a-year: he is constantly attending at court, and hath under him an assistant master, or deputy, at 6s. 8d. a-day, who holds his place during the king's pleasure.
There is also a third officer, called marshal of the ceremonies, with 100l. a-year, whose business is to receive and distribute the master's orders, or the deputy's, for the service; but without their order he can do nothing. This is the king's gift.