The House of Mirth: Chapter 4

Continuing with The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton, it seems more obvious that Lily is in it for the money. Although her instincts say she has feelings for Lawrence Selden, she is more interested in Percy Gryce who has the money and dullness that she wants in order to live a life of luxury. Lily's friend, Mrs. Trenor, seems to be in accordance with Lily's choice of Percy. She wants Lily to be able to live a life of luxury like herself. Lily is also a bit uncomfortable with the idea that Selden will be coming to Bellomont, most likely because she has realized she has feelings for a non-wealthy person. Mrs. Trenor mentions Percy's  income and tells Lily not to wear her "scarlet crepe-de-Chine for dinner" and not to "smoke if you can help it, Lily dear!" (Wharton, 36). Mrs. Trenor wanted Lily to be her best in order to attract Percy and her advice was to not smoke or dress sexy. Mrs. Trenor wantes Lily to impress Percy so that she could hit off well with him.