What role does Washington Otis play in the novella The Canterville Ghost?

Washington Otis is the oldest Otis son. His role in the story is not large, but he represents American practicality and know-how. He is the one who uses Pinkerton's Champion Stain Remover and Paragon Detergent to scrub the ghost's bloodstain off the library floor. We're told he is "extremely sensible." We also learn that the ghost holds a special grudge against Washington for being the one who keeps cleaning up his bloodstains.
Washington also helps look for the missing Virginia. He is the person holding the candle after Virginia leads them to the room where they find the dead body of Sir Simon, who has been released through Virginia's efforts from having to be a ghost. In our last encounter with Washington, he participates in Sir Simon's funeral.