Family and Loyalty

Cotherstone's primary fear is the impact of exposure on his daughter Lettie's happiness and marriage prospects, while Avice Harborough's devotion to her father and Brereton's eventual romantic attachment to her highlight familial and romantic bonds.

Cotherstone's desire to see Lettie settled before he retires reflects his paternal concern, though it is intertwined with his own fears and secrets.

Wraythwaite's loyalty to his foster-brother Harborough and the revelation of family ties drive the plot.

Brereton's loyalty to Avice and his desire to build a future with her, despite the painful past.