The Three R's - Rackets, Rubbish and Royal requirements
Carmen existed when the City was born. Traditionally, their fellowship dates to the 13th century - in 1272 the City passed a by-law controlling carriers. The Crown could force carmen to handle Royal chattels and the pay was pitiful, so rackets developed, officials took bribes, Carmen were 'excused' and the City stepped in. Carters had to carry Royal and civic goods. The Carmen coped. They subcontracted to the suburbs, whence other carters came to take the City's sewage.
|
