Barriers Burned Away · Chapter
IX: Land at Last explained
Dennis Fleet, seeking work, clears the sidewalk of the Art Building and witnesses the dismissal of the drunken porter Pat.
What happens
Dennis Fleet, seeking work, clears the sidewalk of the Art Building and witnesses the dismissal of the drunken porter Pat. He applies for the position and, after a frank interview, is hired by Mr. Ludolph. Dennis begins his duties, sleeping in the store, and resolves to serve his employer faithfully while maintaining his own integrity.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Doubt
Dennis's quiet faith contrasts with Mr. Ludolph's contempt for religion, yet the employer trusts Dennis's honesty.
Social Class and Barriers
Dennis, though a gentleman in bearing, must accept a menial porter's job; Mr. Ludolph initially mistakes him for a customer.
Materialism vs. Spirituality
Mr. Ludolph's life-study is to get the most out of the world with the least cost, while Dennis's heart swells with gratitude and a purpose to serve God.
Characters to notice
- Dennis Fleet
Hired as porter at Ludolph's store after clearing the sidewalk and applying for the position; demonstrates honesty and dignity.
- Mr. Ludolph
Shrewd employer who dismisses Pat and hires Dennis; shows contempt for religion but values practical honesty.
- Mr. Schwartz
Clerk who shows Dennis the closing duties; mutters 'New broom' as he leaves.
- Pat
Discharged drunken porter who breaks a marble statue and is dismissed by Mr. Ludolph.
Key passages
“I should serve you none the worse if I believed that the duty I owed to you I owed also to God.”
Dennis tells Mr. Ludolph that his faith would not hinder his work, but rather strengthen his sense of duty.
Dennis defends his religious conviction as compatible with loyal service.
“Most people's religion, as far as my experience has gone, is not of this practical kind.”
Mr. Ludolph dismisses most religion as impractical, though he is impressed by Dennis's sincerity.
Mr. Ludolph's skepticism is momentarily challenged by Dennis's integrity.