My role in the house is that of housekeeper who is repsonsible for the smooth running of the house and all of the female staff. When researching a house keeper’s role I came across the wonderful Hannah Wolley and her 3 publications of sage wisdom and advice for gentle women who aspire to run a smooth a and efficient household. She advices that I should carry myself as grave, solid and serious and I should be competent in preserving, conserving and candy making and of course all manner of waters. I should be careful when looking after the rest of the servants ensuring they perform their duties correctly and that no goods be spoilt or embezelled!
I just have to share this recipe for Plague Water:
One pound of Rue, Sage, Rosemary, Sorel, Celandine, Mugwort, the tops of Red Brambles, Pimpernel, Wild Dragons, Agrimony, Balm, Angelica.
Put together in a pot and cover with white wine, let stand for 4 dasy then distill it for your use.
Might not have cured plague but it probably smelled better than the inhabitants of the city.