Van Bibber's Man-Servant

Name: Van Bibber's Man-Servant
Author: Richard Harding Davis

The narrative revolves around a distinguished English valet named Walters, who serves a wealthy man, Van Bibber. Walters is highly regarded among his peers for his professionalism and demeanor, having been trained in elite households. However, he harbors aspirations beyond his station, yearning to partake in the lavish experiences he facilitates for his employer. One evening, Van Bibber instructs Walters to reserve a table at Delmonico's for an upcoming dinner. The restaurant has strict rules against servants holding tables, but Walters, confident in his appearance and demeanor, manages to secure a table and orders an extravagant meal, secretly wishing to enjoy it himself. As he sits alone, he becomes increasingly envious of the diners around him, feeling the allure of their world. Unexpectedly, Van Bibber sends a note canceling the dinner, prompting Walters to face a dilemma. Instead of adhering to his role, he decides to indulge in the meal he ordered, believing it to be a rare opportunity. He dines with a sense of pride, momentarily imagining himself as an equal among the guests. However, his moment of triumph is short-lived when Van Bibber arrives, inadvertently exposing Walters' deception. Confronted by his master, Walters is dismissed, leading to his resignation. He leaves behind the cost of the dinner, reflecting his internal conflict and the societal constraints of his position. The story explores themes of class, ambition, and the fleeting nature of aspiration, ultimately highlighting the tension between duty and desire.

By Richard Harding Davis · First published 1899 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Comedy, Social Commentary · 1,763 words

First lines

Van Bibber's man Walters was the envy and admiration of his friends. He was English, of course, and he had been trained in the household of the Marquis Bendinot, and had travelled, in his younger days, as the valet of young Lord Upton. He was now rather well on in years, although it would have been impossible to say just how old he was. Walters had a dignified and repellent air about him, and he brushed his hair in such a way as to conceal his baldness.

What this Textopian page supports

Van Bibber's Man-Servant is listed on Textopian as a short story by Richard Harding Davis, dated 1899 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Richard Harding Davis
Date: 1899 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Comedy, Social Commentary, Short Story, Character Study
Length: 1,763 words
Structure: 1 section, 21 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of class, identity, and social status through the character of Walters, making it a work of literary significance.
Comedy — The story employs humor and irony, particularly in the interactions between Walters and Van Bibber, highlighting the absurdities of social class.
Social Commentary — The plot critiques societal norms and the roles of servants versus their employers, reflecting on class dynamics in early 20th-century America.
Short Story — The work is a concise narrative that encapsulates a single event, characteristic of the short story format.