There is mild mention of poverty, familial discordance and the death of the main characters father. In one instance there is a woman who is attempting to defraud and lay claim to another's fortune, but she is quickly found out. This character has a short appearance but she is prone to anger and throwing things, one such instance leaves her son with a scar on his chin. The Earl is a grumpy curmudgeon who cares not for the poor, but sees the error of his way and makes efforts to correct these faults. There is mention of adults drinking/toasting, but no references of drunkenness or inappropriate behavior.