The small market town of Edgewood becomes the centre of attention when the Old Bank House, ancestral home of old Miss Sowerby, changes hands. Its refurbishment by Sam Adams is regarded as the legitimate concern of the countryside up to, and including, an impromptu gathering to supervise the proper cleaning of the well. Adams represents the emerging middle-class, supplementing professionals like the Deans and further diluting the influence of the old gentry; the Pomfrets, Marlings, Leslies, etc. Interestingly enough, the author uses Adams to articulate the old values and negative attitudes toward creeping socialism and the lower orders which would sound mean and self-serving coming from the old gentry. Despite the surface lightness and gentle humour, Thirkell's depiction of returned veteran Tom Grantly's post-war angst over choosing a career is sensitive as well as accurate. Meanwhile, Colin Keith (like David Leslie previously) escapes the fate of perennial uncle by his engagement to Eleanor Grantly and Lucy Marling accepts Sam Adams's marriage proposal.