]would they really hire such inept but needy servants?

You might want to take a look at some of the threads on servants in a previous group read we did on "The Gentleman's Daughter," or read the book if you can. I was amazed -- the shortage of servants, the turnover of staff, and just the shenanigans in general were very eye-opening! (Hmmm, sounds like my office...) I think the author might be making a realistic point here.