In the novel The Sittaford Mystery, Mr Curtis lives with his wife Amelia in cottage No. 5 in Sittaford. Curtis used to be the gardener at Sittaford House. He was given the cottage by Captain Trevelyan (whether rent-free or for-rent is not stated). Captain Trevelyan also gave permission for his wife to let out rooms to guests, which she does for summer visitors.
Curtis's wife Amelia hosted Emily Trefusis and Charles Enderby when they came to Sittaford. Unlike his wife, Curtis is not talkative nor particularly keen on conversation about the latest news and gossip. Even to his own wife, his usual response to her would be in the form of grunts. Curtis is described as a rather gruff looking grey haired man.