Earl

An Earl (male) or Countess (female) is the fourth highest ranking hereditary title of nobility in the Kingdom of Pyrus. A Earl thus ranks above many other holders of a title of nobility (Count, Viscount, Baron and Lord), but below those of Grand Duke, Duke and Marquess.
The wife of an Earl is known as a Countess. This is also the title of a woman who holds a Earldom in her own right, however her husband does not receive any title. In the order of precedence in the Kingdom of Pyrus, Earls without state offices or positions generally take precedence after Marquesses and before Counts, in order of date of creation.
== Forms of Address ==
Begin: My Lord
Address: The Right Honourable The Earl [Name of Earldom]
Speak to as: My Lord (formal and employees), Your Lordship or Lord [Name of Earldom] (social)
Ceremonial, formal, or legal title: The Right Honourable [Forename] [Surname], [Number] Earl [Name of Earldom]
== Coronet ==
A Pyrusian Earl is entitled to a coronet (a silver-gilt circlet, chased as jewelled but not actually gemmed) bearing eight conventional strawberry leaves and eight silver balls (pearls) on the rim of the circlet. The physical coronet is worn only at coronations. Any peer can bear his coronet of rank on his coat of arms above the shield.
== History ==
The first creation of an Earl was on 9th September 1566 when King Molthrod created the title Earl of Pyrus for his grandson, Prince Kranere.
There have been six Earls created, but all Earl titles have been forfeit. There are currently no extant Earldoms.
== See Also ==
Peerage of Pyrus
List of Earls in the Kingdom of Pyrus
List of Earldoms in the Kingdom of Pyrus
Category:Peerage of Pyrus