Fairies, imaginary supernatural beings conceived of as of diminutive size but in human shape, who play a conspicuous part in the traditions of Europe during the Middle Ages, and are animated more or less by a spirit of mischief out of a certain loving regard for, or humorous interest in, the affairs of mankind, whether in the way of thwarting or helping.
Definition taken from The Nuttall Encyclopædia, edited by the Reverend James Wood (1907)
Fairfax, Thomas, Lord * Fairservice, Andrew