The story in one page
Lola, a girl of humble upbringing in Bayswater, catches a glimpse of a distinguished cabinet minister, Fallaray, and develops a singular, all-consuming infatuation. Rejecting the local life and the advances of a decent watchmaker's son, she maneuvers her way into the service of the wealthy Feo to infiltrate the world where Fallaray operates. Despite her aspirations and attempts to rise above her station, her pursuit remains rooted in fantasy. Eventually, the reality of class divides and the minister's own detachment force a return to her origins. The story concludes with Lola choosing a quiet, literary life alongside the devoted Ernest, leaving her obsession as a private, locked-away memory.
Who's who
- Lola
A young shopkeeping-class girl who fixes her sights on a minister.
- Fallaray
A politician who opposes government reprisals and lives in high circles.
- Feo
A wealthy woman who employs Lola and offers cynical relationship advice.
- Ernest Treadwell
A local boy with the soul of a poet who adores Lola.
- Simpkins
A cautious, well-mannered valet who considers marrying into the Breezy family.
What it's really about
- Social mobility
- Attempting to climb the class ladder via proximity.
- Unrequited obsession
- Constructing an identity around a distant stranger.
Why it's memorable
- A girl bowing to imaginary friends in the park before checking the news.
- A valet in a spotted tie sweating through a dinner proposal.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
Lola hides her photo of the minister, finds peace in her modest surroundings, and reads poetry to the boy who has truly loved her all along.
For your book club
- Is the minister ever actually aware of her presence?
- How does the setting shift from the grand to the mundane?