How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
And when today one hears talk about his lordship, when one hears the sort of foolish speculations concerning his motives […] I for one will never doubt that a desire to see "justice in this world" lay at the heart of all his actions. (3.180)
Stevens takes on the question of Lord Darlington's guilt here. Was he in fact a Nazi, or were his intentions good? Was he simply misguided, tricked into supporting the German cause?
Quote #2
[…] it may be that you are under the impression I am somehow embarrassed or ashamed of my association with his lordship […] I have chosen to tell white lies in both instances as the simplest means of avoiding unpleasantness. (4.66)
Despite his protests that he is proud of his service to Lord Darlington, Stevens pretends that he never worked for him. Somehow, his excuses ring a little false.
Quote #3
In looking back over my career thus far, my chief satisfaction derives from what I achieved during those years, and I am today nothing but proud and grateful to have been given such a privilege. (4.66)
Stevens rejects the possibility that he may be guilty by association with Darlington. As an employee, Stevens does not feel responsible for his employer's actions.