Hmm... the first thing that came to mind was having the boy act as a sort of manservant for the master. It is a position that is lowly – he would wait on his Master at all hours of the day and night, fetch items, run errands, etc. – but on the other hand, it could be considered a favored position (Master's pet, sort of mentality) and he would be on hand to "show off" to guests.

I hope that helps.
~Jacquelyn