Cornet

Cornet (Ital. cornetta, 'a small flag') was, until 1871, the lowest grade of commissioned officer in the cavalry, equivalent to ensign in the infantry, one of his duties being to bear the standard, which, however, is only carried by heavy cavalry regiments in the British army. With the lieutenant he assisted the captain in the daily duties connected with the troop to which he belonged. Before the abolition of purchase in 1871 a cornet's commission used to cost £450; but much larger sums were habitually paid in celebrated or fashionable corps. The pay was 8s. per day, with 1s. or 1s. 6d. extra for field allowance. In 1871 cornets were abolished, sub-lieutenants (who are merely probationary lieutenants) being substituted.