Master was once a title used in England for men of fairly high rank, such as gentlemen, priests or scholars. It was later extended to all respectable men and was the forerunner of "Mister", which is derived from it.
After its replacement in common speech by "Mister", Master was retained as an address for boys or young men, but is now considered archaic and affected. However, Master is still used as the written form of address for boys under the age of 13 in formal correspondence, particularly invitations to formal affairs.
The heir to a Scottish lordship, barony or viscountcy is given the honoric title "Master of" followed by his father's title. For instance, the heir of Lord Elphinstone is known as the Master of Elphinstone.
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