I don't have a clue as to what this is referring to.

What about the owner, when they inform the guests that there have been no servants in 100 years.

I live on a ~90 hectare island with 4 residents scattered about and spotty signal (especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms).

I might not be the house servant, but it is fun when guests come asking about bad/no signal and you just sit there: "Oh yeah, that happens during bad weather, any problems? :) ".

There's also a running joke among my friends that you need to bring a "companion" if you want to be initialized... For undisclosed reasons. Also, don't feed the islanders, and don't let the campfire burn out if staying in the shelter.