Class and Social Mobility

The book explores the rigid class structure of early 20th-century England, contrasting the wealthy Mallathorpes with the struggling clerk Pratt, who seeks to transform himself from a 'mulberry leaf' into 'satin' through cunning.

Pratt, a clerk, envies the Mallathorpes' wealth and sees the will as a chance to rise above his station.

The Mallathorpes' sudden wealth contrasts with their previous lives; Nesta and Harper struggle with their new idle status.

Collingwood's inheritance of £25,000 and Eldrick's advice to marry into wealth highlight the role of money in social advancement.