Prologue, July 1956 Summary

The Remains of the Day is the story of an aging butler named Mr. Stevens who recalls his life of professional service and personal disappointment while employed at Darlington Hall in England for thirty years. As the novel begins, Stevens is debating whether or not to take a road trip while the master of the house, Mr. Farraday, is gone abroad for a few weeks. Mr. Farraday has suggested that Stevens might benefit from a little time away, but Stevens declines, citing his duties at Darlington. The topic has come up because Stevens received a letter from Miss Kenton, a former housekeeper at Darlington. Stevens believes she may want to return to employment at the grand house.

Miss Kenton married and has been away from Darlington for twenty years, but a recent divorce has left Miss Kenton with no future plans...