How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"What are they doing?"
"Putting in lines for electric lights," Tom answers, coughing into a white handkerchief with his initials stitched on a corner in a distinguished black script. (3.24-25)
This little detail gives us a clue about the class of Gemma and her brother—they must have some money in the family since Tom has an elegant, decorative nose rag.
Quote #2
The carriage bumps along the cobblestones through grimy, narrow streets. Dozens of dirty children clamber about, staring at us in our fine carriage. (3.58)
Gemma realizes the huge difference between her life and that of the rest of the population, and it makes her feel bad. This difference sets up the story to take place in the rich halls of Spence.
Quote #3
"Now, it is very important that you conduct yourself in a manner befitting to your station while at Spence. It's fine to be kind to the lesser girls, but remember that they are not your equals." (4.19)
Tom is just full of delightful little tidbits of useful information, isn't he? And this little speech clues us in to just how wealthy Gemma's family is—she is even richer than some of the rich girls who go to Spence.