In the novel, Jocantha Bessbury finds herself enveloped in a bubble of contentment within her comfortable life in Chelsea. With a charming husband, Gregory, and a beautifully furnished home, she feels serene and satisfied. However, her introspective nature leads her to empathize deeply with the struggles of less fortunate individuals around her, particularly young working women who lead monotonous lives. Determined to spread a little joy, Jocantha embarks on an afternoon of shopping with the intention of gifting theatre tickets to someone in need of a distraction.