Rupert Tupper is the orphan son, youngest of four boys, of a Navy engineering officer who died heroically in the service of his country (Kanaida). The Grand Duke of Kanaida took the widow in and made her his housekeeper. It was a stroke of luck for him because the widow was efficent and the boys were hardy lads that brought life into the old 153 room house. Unfortunately Rupert soon proved himself to be the least useful member of the clan. Always helpful and obediant Rupert showed a remarkable level of concentration and attention to detail as well a complete lack of common sense.
Examples:
Rupert spent three hours polishing the floor in the formal dining room to such a high gloss it shone. Unfortunately it was also nearly frictionless.
The clock winding and case cleaning is best left undescribed.
It was with some relief that Rupert discovered music ( the violin ) and the Duke generously sent Rupert away to music school in Albion. Although he never mentioned it, the money was less than he needed to get by and rather than complain Rupert played for extra money in some unsavory places. If Mother should ever find out Rupert is sure the shock would break her gentle heart.
In the war fever that swept Kanaida Rupert joined the Navy (he nearly worships the memory of his father). He served on three ships in the fourteen months he was in. Possibly the best example of his service was the time that he was able to remove every trace of corrosion from a secondary gun, and some of the rifling along with it. Another classic tale of Rupert's naval prowess relates to the time he cleaned the signal flags so well the only message his ship could send was one of surrender. The incident with him helping the chef by cleaning and sharpening his knives was the only time Rupert was in mortal peril in the navy.
As tales passed and grew Rupert became as valuable as a corvette - to the other side. With the threat of war winding down Rupert was released (although he volunteered to stay in) and as he has finished his studies he is on his way back to Kanaida to repay his kind patron any way he can.