While entertaining guests, the Earl of Grantham might perhaps offer a bit of hunting—should the weather permit. Although fowl such as pheasants or wild game like hare might be preferred, should a guest kill a mallard or some other duck, it would not go to waste. Mrs. Patmore could certainly use the duck in a fine recipe such as this one to offer the guests a taste of their own hunting prowess.
Etiquette Lessons
It is out of respect for your guests that you serve them their duck already carved into breasts. When served a half duck or a half chicken, a guest is expected to seamlessly use his knife and fork to cut the wing and leg away from the breast before he begins to eat any of the meal.
