How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
[…] there must surely come a time when [a butler] ceases his searching; a time when he must say to himself: "This employer embodies all that I find noble and admirable. I will hereafter devote myself to serving him." This is loyalty intelligently bestowed. (6.346)
For Stevens, loyalty ranks right up there with professionalism as the quality of a good butler—and a good friend.
Quote #8
"[…] He's a gentleman, and he fought a war with the Germans, and it's his instinct to offer generosity and friendship to a defeated foe. It's his instinct. Because he's a gentleman, a true old English gentleman. […] they've used it, manipulated it, turned something fine and noble into something else—something they can use for their own foul ends? […]" (7.174)
Friendship isn't just a personal issue but a political one as well. Mr. Cardinal's comments here suggest that Lord Darlington's notion of friendship has no place in contemporary international affairs. This contrasts with Lord Darlington's firm belief that friendship is the basis for peace.
Quote #9
"Indeed, as you say, we are old friends […]. I simply wondered if you were being ill-treated in some way. Forgive me, but as I say, it is something that has worried me for some time." (8.41)
Aw, Stevens … finally gotten around to expressing feelings, have you? There is certainly some sexual tension between Stevens and Miss Kenton, but as old friends, he can sincerely care for her well-being, even if she is married to someone else.