What is a yeoman in 'The Hound of the Baskervilles'?

Answer 1

The term yeoman has had several meanings throughout history (particularly in the military); however, in the context below, it means a land-owner or farmer. The same word occurs in 'The Adventure of the Sussex Vampire' with a similar definition yet the term 'yeomanry' is used by Holmes in 'The Adventure of the Blanched Soldier' with the military designation.

"It chanced that this Hugo came to love (if, indeed, so dark a passion may be known under so bright a name) the daughter of a yeoman who held lands near the Baskerville estate." -- from the Baskerville family document entrusted to Dr. Mortimer