Like a governess, a lady's companion was not regarded as a servant, but neither was she really treated as an equal; however her position in the household of her employer was notably less awkward and solitary than that of a governess. Only women from a class background similar to or only a little below that of their employer would be considered for the position.
A lady's companion held a position within a household that was distinct from a servant, but not equal in status; however, her role was less isolated and more comfortable than that of a governess. Only women from a social class comparable to or slightly lower than their employer would be considered for the position.