I wish I could say positively that Claude Beuchotte is the butler in
the film. But thus far, it is only a possibility. Same goes for the
photos of men helping transport Clemens from the boat returning from
Bermuda. I have traced Beuchotte's career through historical records
and newspaper ads he published for various hotel establishments.
After 1941 he seems to disappear from pubic records. At one time I
was in contact with a Beuchotte family member -- but no pictures
available from that source. Claude worked for the Henry Rogers family
after Twain's death. But so far, nothing from that angle either.
Claude Beuchotte appears to have been the perfect butler -- strict
confidentiality and leaving no written records (or personal family
correspondence) to be found. So, if there is one thing to put at the
top of Cindy's wish list -- how about the butler's personal tell-all
diary.
Barb