Peg Pennyworth. by Sabine Baring-Gould

Name: Peg Pennyworth.
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould

The narrative centers on Margaret Wharton, a wealthy and eccentric woman from Yorkshire, known for her peculiar habits and strong sense of independence. She hails from an ancient family and possesses a significant fortune, which she generously shares with her nephew, though she maintains a strict policy against public acknowledgment of her charitable acts. Her aversion to tradesmen's bills leads her to make small purchases, earning her the nickname "Peg Pennyworth." Margaret's eccentricities are highlighted through various anecdotes, such as her unique approach to charity, where she deliberately selects the lightest guinea to donate, showcasing her disdain for public displays of generosity. Her character is further illustrated by humorous incidents, including a memorable episode where she inadvertently causes panic by carrying live eels in her pocket, which escape during a carriage ride. Her interactions with servants and acquaintances reveal her assertive nature. When her footman and coachman refuse to carry a large meat pie, she takes matters into her own hands, insisting on transporting it herself in her carriage, demonstrating her determination and disregard for social norms. Margaret's relationship with a clergyman's widow in York adds depth to her character. After the widow's husband passes away, Margaret visits and stays for an extended period, leading to financial strain on the widow. In response, her nephew offers to provide an annuity to alleviate the burden, ensuring Margaret's continued presence in the widow's home until her death at the age of 103. The work paints a vivid picture of a woman who defies societal expectations, embraces her wealth with a mix of pride and quirkiness, and leaves a lasting impact on those around her through her unconventional lifestyle and charitable choices.

By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1890 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Biography, Comedy · 1,059 words

First lines

Margaret Wharton, an unmarried lady of great wealth and ancient family, was one of the Yorkshire oddities of last century.

She belonged to the family of the Whartons of Skelton Castle, in Cleveland, and possessed a fortune of £200,000, of which, with rare liberality, she made her nephew a present of £100,000. Her charities were liberal, but always private, and if she heard that a recipient of her bounty had disclosed the good deed, that person never received another penny from her.

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Peg Pennyworth. is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1890 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
Date: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Biography, Comedy, Social Commentary, Character Study
Length: 1,059 words
Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Historical Fiction — The story is set in a specific historical context, focusing on the life of a wealthy woman in 18th century England.
Biography — The narrative centers around the life and eccentricities of a real historical figure, Margaret Wharton.
Comedy — The humorous incidents and character quirks provide a comedic tone throughout the narrative.
Social Commentary — The book critiques social norms and behaviors of the wealthy class during the time period.