From Mr N. R. Frith, MRPharmS
SIR,—Something occurred to me as we approach the 21st century. I was thinking of the 15th century terms "apprentice", "journeyman" and "master". Most readers will recognise "apprentice" as corresponding to our current preregistration graduate. "Journeyman" would apply to the bulk of the profession as Chambers dictionary describes it as "a craftsman qualified in a particular trade and working for an employer". However, what is more interesting is the derivation of the term. Apparently "journeyman" comes from "a day's work" in the absolute sense (presumably from the French). In this latter sense it would apply specifically to locum pharmacists.
As one of these latter 15th century individuals myself I was wondering what proportion of the profession are so employed. Perhaps somebody can illuminate me.
Bob Frith Chatham, Kent