Much of the middle-class literature of the Victorian era was concerned with the moral improvement of its readers, and Stockton holds up for admiration the practical and moral virtues of his characters. In his fiction, Stockton created many portraits of strong women who, like Mrs. Leeks and Mrs. Aleshine, are able to cope with the problems of life with assurance, common sense, and humor.

Writing at a time of optimism about the future of America and the glories of technological progress, Stockton reflected the genteel tradition with its emphasis on self-confidence, hard work, good manners, and a good heart. These middle-class values sometimes made him insensitive to both the upper and lower classes, and to minorities. The most extreme example of this occurs after the ship has sunk and the widows are treading water. Mrs. Lecks comments that at least they do not have to worry...