"For Gentry Only!"

An elevator is sometimes called Aufzug (Uptrain) in Germany, more often Fahrsthl (Travel-chair), but whatever it is called, it is always exclusive. Apartment house elevators are few and far between. Service elevators are unknown. Such lifts as there are are proudly marked "Nur fuer Herrschaften"--"For Gentry Only!" It is always understood, and generally written in the lease, that no messengers, delivery boys, or servants may ride in the lift except when the servant is accompanied by the employer or the employer's dog, cat, etc. That has been the rule, but last week a new day broke for flat-footed menials.

In a test case the Berlin Labor Court held that any clause or agreement barring servants from Aufzuege or Fahrstuele is void, and branded all such prohibitions as "obsolete and anti-social." This ruling may be an opening wedge to compel landlords and employers to provide better living conditions for domestic servants. Even in modern Berlin apartment buildings, backstairs are unlighted, and despite the long German winter, maids' rooms are nearly always without heat.