Edith Adelon functions in a thematic framework that sustains characters who are largely types of manners and morals, rather than fully developed individuals.

The majority exist primarily to lend atmosphere, define other characters, or drive the plot. Among these are bubbly, seventeen-year-old Amy, whose delights are excursions, parties, and Edith's presence. Brother Arthur is frank, warmhearted and generous, but so far as the reader knows, also idle and boring. Arthur functions as the heir to be displaced.

As for Lady Hamilton, she is the dowager of convention, haughty but tender toward her children. In the final scenes of confrontation it seems that Lady Hamilton might emerge into sharper focus, but the moment passes. She returns to her convenient role of Edith-worshiper.

Lord Arlington, as Edith's unwanted suitor, might have developed as a figure of conflict, but he is scantily sketched.

"Selfish, passionate, discontented," he seems created to be...