The Parachute

The parachute that saves Hugo’s life when he jumps from his burning bomber plane is a symbol of a commodity. When Sofia sees Hugo’s parachute, she is envious of the silk because she could use it to make underwear or petticoats. She suggests to Hugo that she could trade the silk for things her family needs but Hugo discourages her because it would signal that Sofia something about the missing pilot.

Portrait of Joanna Langley

This portrait of Joanna Langley is a symbol of the family’s former wealth. Joanna Langley was an ancestor of Joanna and Hugo when the family was still rich and aristocratic. The Joanna who lived in 1973 profited from the portrait because it had been painted by Thomas Gainsborough. Her lawyer estimated it would sell at auction for several thousand pounds.

The Letter

The letter to Sofia that Joanna...