Who is Vera Ellis / Mrs. Joseph Hanson from Stern Men and what is their importance?

Vera becomes the virtual slave-owner of protagonist Ruth Thomas' grandmother and mother. As a young girl who endures too much time with brothers, Vera demands a sister and on her tenth birthday is presented orphan Jane Smith as a twin sister. Vera keeps Jane busy attending to her extensive wardrobe. Photographs show homely Vera wearing a look of exquisite boredom. Placid Jane accompanies Vera everywhere as a handmaid but, as a legal relative, is paid no salary for her efforts.