Mr. Salteenas Plan explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Aspiration

  Mr. Salteena's earnest desire to become a 'real thing' gentleman drives the chapter, highlighting the social climbing and class anxieties of the era.

• Friendship and Loyalty

  Bernard kindly offers advice, a letter of introduction, and agrees to care for Ethel, demonstrating loyalty to Mr. Salteena.

Characters to notice

• Mr. Salteena

  Wakes early, enjoys tea in bed and a luxurious bath, then confides in Bernard about his desire to become a gentleman.

• Horace

  The footman brings Mr. Salteena tea and prepares the bath.

• Ethel Monticue

  Responds faintly from her room, sulks at being excluded from the private conversation, but is later promised a chat by Bernard.

• Bernard Clark

  Hosts Mr. Salteena in his study, listens to his plan, suggests the Crystal Palace and offers a letter to the Earl of Clincham, and agrees to look after Ethel.

Key passages

• “You can help me perhaps to be more like a gentleman said Mr. Salteena getting rarther hot I am quite alright as they say but I would like to be the real thing can it be done he added slapping his knees.”

  Mr. Salteena asks Bernard if he can help him become a true gentleman, admitting he is acceptable as he is but longs to be the genuine article.

  This moment encapsulates Mr. Salteena's aspiration and insecurity about his social standing.

• “Why dont you try the Crystal Pallace he asked several peaple Earls and even dukes have privite compartments there.”

  Bernard suggests the Crystal Palace as a place where even earls and dukes have private rooms, implying it is a suitable venue for social improvement.

  Bernard's advice sets the stage for Mr. Salteena's upcoming journey and the introduction of the Earl of Clincham.