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<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><FONT face="Courier New" size=3>Thought that you
would all enjoy this. :-)</FONT></FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><FONT face="Courier New"
size=3></FONT></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT face=Arial size=2><FONT face="Courier New" size=3>Bjorn</DIV>
<DIV><BR><BR>Peer Fear <BR>By Her Excellency, Dame Eleanor Cadfan, Baroness
Skraeling Althing, <BR>Ealdormere <BR><BR>Peer Fear is a terrible affliction in
this club and so unnecessary! <BR>Getting to know Peers in their natural
habitat, like on the list <BR>field, is fine, but there are other ways. Peers
can be anywhere and <BR>everywhere, so when approaching an unfamiliar Peer it is
best to <BR>keep a few general rules in mind. Remember they may be more afraid
<BR>of you than you are of them! Although frightening from a distance, <BR>these
magnificent creatures domesticate easily and can make very <BR>rewarding
companions. <BR><BR>1) When approaching a Peer, do so from the front. Walk
slowly. Peers <BR>startle easily, particularly Roses, and you don't want to set
them <BR>to flight. <BR><BR>2) Distract them. It may help more skittish Peers,
like Laurels, if <BR>you begin by letting them examine a sleeve hem or a work in
<BR>progress. Show a Knight a new weapon or anything shiny. <BR><BR>3) Speak
softly and use encouraging language and flattery. They may <BR>not understand
everything you say, but they will respond to the tone <BR>of your voice. Avoid
excessive bragging or arm waving. Rarer Peers, <BR>like Pelicans, can be easily
intimidated by overt displays of <BR>passion. Laurels or Knights can become
competitive or agitated and <BR>may charge. <BR><BR>4) Offer them food or drink.
Many Peers can become cranky when <BR>sitting through long meetings, Courts or
performing arduous tasks of <BR>A&S or service. Food or alcoholic beverages
will often make them <BR>more placid and with a little work many Peers can
become tame enough <BR>to take food directly from your hand. Remember to keep
the food soft <BR>and easy to chew. Many Peers are old and dependant on Squires
or <BR>Apprentices to cut their meat. <BR><BR>5) Approach them in groups. Peers
tend to travel in clusters and can <BR>become anxious when cut from their herd.
When approaching a flock of <BR>Pelicans or a pride of Knights, be careful to
include all the Peers <BR>generally. Avoid singling out one Peer with direct eye
contact and <BR>never turn your back on the rest of the group. While not meant
<BR>maliciously, many separated and started Peers can accidentally <BR>trample
you in an effort to rejoin their fellows. <BR><BR>6) Wear your Apprentice,
Protégé or Squires belt. Let the Peer <BR>examine the belt or touch it. Many
Peers feel more comfortable <BR>knowing another Peer has been there before them.
<BR><BR>If you follow all these guidelines, anyone can form a lasting and
<BR>meaningful relationship with a Peer. With proper maintenance, a Peer <BR>can
be a faithful and loving companion and friend. <BR><BR>Fight the fear. Hug a
Peer! </FONT><BR></DIV></FONT></BODY></HTML>