The Verger by W. Somerset Maugham

Summary

In 1924, Albert Foreman, the verger at St. Peter's Neville Square, faces an unexpected challenge when it's revealed he can't read or write, leading to his dismissal. With determination, he and his wife Emma open a tobacco and sweet shop, which flourishes into a chain. Despite his illiteracy, Albert amasses a fortune, demonstrating that perseverance and business acumen can triumph over personal shortcomings.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The story is set in May 1924, focusing on the life of Albert Foreman, the Verger at St. Peter's Neville Square church.
• 👔 Albert Foreman has been serving the church for seventeen years and is known for his meticulous care of the church's ceremonial garments.
• 🗂️ Albert's inability to read or write is revealed, a secret he's kept hidden throughout his tenure, which becomes a point of contention.
• 🏠 Albert's wife, Mrs. Foreman, nags him about clearing out an old drawer filled with his cherished but unused ceremonial garments.
• 👶 A christening ceremony is described, showcasing Albert's role and the social dynamics of the church community.
• 📜 The church officials discover Albert's illiteracy and deem him unsuitable for his position, leading to his dismissal.
• 💼 After losing his job, Albert considers his options and decides to start a new chapter by opening a tobacco and sweet shop with Mrs. Brown.
• 💸 Albert and Emma's business venture is successful, and they expand by opening multiple shops, demonstrating Albert's business acumen despite his illiteracy.
• 🏦 Albert accumulates a significant amount of money, over 30,000 pounds, through his business endeavors.
• 📈 The bank manager suggests investing Albert's money for higher returns, but Albert is hesitant due to his inability to read the investment documents.

Q & A

What significant event was supposed to take place in May 1924 in Peter's Neville Square?

A christening was scheduled to take place at the church in Peter's Neville Square, a location favored by the fashionable for such ceremonies.

What was Albert Foreman's role at the church and how long had he served in that capacity?

Albert Foreman was the Verger at the church, and he had served in that role for seventeen years.

Why was Albert Foreman's wife urging him to clear out a drawer?

Albert's wife wanted him to clear out a drawer that was filled with old guard uniforms that he had kept from previous ceremonies.

What surprising discovery was made about Albert Foreman's abilities?

It was discovered that despite serving as the Verger for seventeen years, Albert Foreman could neither read nor write.

How did the church officials react to the revelation of Albert Foreman's illiteracy?

The church officials, including the vicar and the church wardens, were astonished and felt that it was impossible for the Verger to be illiterate, leading to the decision that Albert Foreman could no longer hold his position.

What was Albert Foreman's initial reaction to losing his job at the church?

Albert Foreman was initially shocked and saddened by the news, as he had never considered the possibility of losing his job due to his illiteracy.

What opportunity did Mrs. Fitzwilliam offer to Albert Foreman after he lost his job?

Mrs. Fitzwilliam offered Albert Foreman the chance to work at her establishment, which he accepted, marking a new beginning for him.

How did Albert Foreman's life change after losing his position at the church?

Albert Foreman's life took a significant turn as he started a new business venture with his wife Emma, opening a tobacco and sweet shop, which eventually led to a chain of successful shops.

What was the bank manager's suggestion to Albert Foreman regarding his large deposit?

The bank manager suggested that Albert Foreman should consider investing his money in safe securities to earn a higher rate of interest instead of just keeping it in the bank.

What was the ironic twist in Albert Foreman's life regarding his literacy?

The ironic twist was that despite being illiterate, Albert Foreman was able to build a successful business and amass a fortune of over 30,000 pounds.