THE SERVANT

A short novel which is a highly skilled portrait in parasitism and one which, in its economy, its concentration, succeeds as a horror story of considerable brightness and sharpness. As told by a friend, this concerns Tony, returned from the wars, and his insidious corruption by Barrett, his servant. It is Barrett, with his solicitous vigilance and provision of creature comfort who leads to Tony's physical and moral ruin, separates him from his friends, isolates him in a world of sensual indulgence and depravity. Tony, making one effort to regain his integrity, is last seen in a maudlin, macabre interchange with Barrett and a young girl off the streets... Not without decadence, but also with considerable fascination, this may find a special audience.