Day 2, Afternoon Summary

Stevens again resumes his thoughts on the qualities that make a great butler. He arrives at the conclusion that serving in a great household is one identifying characteristic. In Stevens' father's time, a great and worthy household was determined by its position on a social ladder of nobility. Now, Stevens believes, the rungs of the social ladder have been replaced by a wheel. Each great household is at the hub of the wheel, and the ancillary spokes are made up of everyone associated with the house. It is the duty of a great butler to get as close to the hub as possible.

Stevens adds that a great household is also judged by its moral fiber and contributions to society. Stevens feels fortunate and proficient in having served at Darlington Hall for so many years, which has exhibited high moral fiber...