The story revolves around Brooksmith, a butler who has been dismissed from his position due to his strict adherence to the rules of etiquette. He is befriended by a young man who recognizes his exceptional character and offers him a place in his household. Brooksmith's rigid sense of propriety often leads to humorous misunderstandings as he struggles to adapt to the more relaxed atmosphere of his new employer's home. Despite this, Brooksmith remains steadfast in his commitment to upholding the highest standards of behavior. As the story unfolds, Brooksmith becomes increasingly disillusioned with the moral laxity of those around him and begins to question the true nature of propriety. His character serves as a commentary on the social conventions of the time, highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity.
By Henry James · First published 1908 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Psychological Fiction