A wrong choice
Harley’s father – “the good man” – wanted the best for his son, so he “named him a variety of guardians”. He was sure that all of them would do everything possible to help his son. The irony of it was that “their opinions were so opposite, that the only possible method of conciliation was the mediatory power of a dinner and a bottle”. Every time they met, they ended up eating and drinking as if they hadn’t any cares in the world.
Inappropriate behavior
Harley had a chance to improve his position in the society. Fortunately for him, he had an old aunt, who had enough money and not so many heirs. Everything could be alright, but once he had “the rudeness to fall asleep while she was describing the composition and virtues of her favorite cholic-water”. The irony is that to get a help from a relative one should behave like a devoted servant.
Prejudices
Before Mr. Harley leaves for London, he bids farewell to his aunt who gives him some advice. The woman could never forget to deliver her instructions to her nephew! They “consisted mostly of negatives”, for London – according to her – was “replete with temptations” and one should be beware of them. The irony was hidden in his aunt’s prejudices against London, for they were typical prejudices of a villager against a city.
