ABSTRACT
ANTRUSTIONES Close followers of Frankish rulers in the Merovingian period, part of the ruler’s trustis. The term derives from Salian trust meaning helper but the English idea of a trustee, someone who can be relied upon, is not far from explaining their status. They are much the same as early war-bands of chieftains, forming the nucleus of an army, ready for immediate employment. An antrustio had to appear at court in arms and make an oath of fidelity, taking the prince’s hand – an obvious link with the oath of homage.
