Mr. and Mrs. Otis are both robust, all-American figures. We learn that Mrs. Otis has a fine "constitution" and is the picture of health. Neither she nor Mr. Otis initially believe in ghosts and both have a practical, down-to-earth, can-do attitude towards life. Both come to believe in the ghost when they see Sir Simon, but they are not afraid of him. Mrs. Otis offers him medicine when she thinks he looks ill.

Both characters appreciate and represent the American lifestyle. Mrs. Otis organizes a clambake, a decidedly American event. Mr. Otis is pointedly not impressed with British aristocracy or British pageantry. He doesn't want Virginia to accept the jewels the ghost gives her for helping him to his final rest. He believes such luxurious baubles are contrary to the simple spirit of American democracy. Yet we are told he is a proud father when he walks Virginia up the aisle to marry the young duke.