Legal Definitions - Counting House of the King's Household

The term Counting House of the King's Household refers to a historical administrative and judicial body within the British royal court, more commonly and formally known as the Board of Green Cloth.

This body was primarily responsible for managing the financial affairs of the royal household, including budgeting, accounting for expenses, and auditing expenditures related to the monarch's domestic establishment. Beyond its financial duties, it also held significant judicial authority, presiding over minor offenses and disputes that occurred within the "verge" – the defined precincts of the royal court. Its name, "Board of Green Cloth," derived from the green baize cloth that covered the table at which its members, high-ranking officials like the Lord Steward, Treasurer, and Comptroller, conducted their business.

Here are some examples illustrating the functions of the Counting House of the King's Household:

• Financial Oversight Example: Imagine a situation in the 17th century where the royal kitchens needed a large supply of exotic spices for an upcoming state banquet. The head chef would submit a requisition for these items.

  The Counting House of the King's Household (the Board of Green Cloth) would be responsible for reviewing this requisition, approving the expenditure, ensuring the funds were available, and ultimately auditing the purchase to confirm the spices were acquired within budget and properly accounted for. This demonstrates its role in managing the royal household's finances.

• Judicial Authority Example: A scullery maid working within the palace grounds is accused of petty theft, having taken a small silver spoon from the pantry.

  Instead of being tried in a regular civil court, the Counting House of the King's Household would have jurisdiction over this matter. Its officials would hear the case, determine guilt or innocence, and impose a suitable punishment, as it held judicial authority over offenses committed by household staff within the royal precincts.

• Auditing and Administration Example: At the end of a quarter, the Master of the Horse submits detailed accounts for the upkeep of the royal stables, including feed, farrier services, and new tack.

  The Counting House of the King's Household would meticulously examine these accounts. Its officials would scrutinize every entry, cross-reference invoices, and ensure that all expenses were legitimate, properly documented, and conformed to the established budget for the stables. This illustrates its function as the primary auditing and administrative body for the royal household's various departments.