The term "constable" was originally unconnected with the "chief pledge", and referred to officers in charge of the cavalry; it originates from the Latin "comes stabuli", meaning "count of the stable". By extension, "constable" referred to the officer in command of the army – one of the Great Officers of State. In times of relative peace, this officer was sometimes given a role in keeping order, on account of his command of military resources. Additional "constables" were sometimes appointed, if order needed to be kept in multiple places, or the main constable was busy in his main role.