Set in the provincial town of Bursley, the novel introduces the Baines family and their drapery business, focusing on the childhood and adolescence of two sisters, Constance and Sophia. Their father’s worsening health forces Mrs. Baines to take on the business leadership, and the sisters grow up immersed in shop work and domestic responsibility. Constance leans toward a stable, dutiful life, while Sophia craves excitement and independence. Sophia falls in love with a travelling salesman, Gerald Scales, and elopes despite her family’s objections. Constance remains at home, eventually becoming engaged to Samuel Povey, anchoring her life in the town.