beadsman

noun

1. (historical)A petitioner; someone who seeks some type of favour from another, usually from a superior.
2. A man employed in praying; especially one who prays for another.

   “Good Lord Cromwell, stand my friend: exert yourself for Thomas Howard, who is your daily beadsman, your debtor for life.”

3. (England, historical)A poor man, supported in a beadhouse, and required to pray for the soul of its founder; an almsman.

   “Whereby ye shall bind me to be […]your poor beadsman for ever unto Almighty God.”

4. (Scotland, historical)A public almsman; one who received alms from the king, and was expected in return to pray for the royal welfare and that of the state; a licensed beggar.