Rich in naturalistic detail, the novel concentrates on the individual problems and hardships which result from the typical shortages experienced by the lower classes—want of money, employment and decent living conditions.

In London he finds his granddaughter, Jane, a weak child whom he rescues from the tyranny of the Peckovers (mother and daughter), in whose house she is employed as a household drudge.

Joseph, pestered by his disappointed wife, also believes that Michael is rich, and tries to win his father's respect by improving relations with Jane.

Clara Hewett is a young attractive woman who left her poor family with an intention of becoming a famous actress and escaping poverty.

Clara's brother Bob, a promising artist, chooses to remain in the same social class: he marries a poor and unfortunate girl, Pennyloaf, whom he does not love.

Disagreeing with Michael's plans, and feeling that his dignity is compromised by Joseph's broaching the question of the old man's money, Sidney reduces his relationship with Jane and instead offers marriage to Clara who accepts it gratefully.

His wife is making plans to kill him, but Joseph escapes abroad with the money, content to leave Jane only a small pension.

Jane rejects her father's pension after discovering his intrigues and declines an offer of marriage from a well-to-do business clerk, thus accepting a life of toil.