...I have to wonder about the reasoning behind this system. I can only assume that distance is a wonderful eraser of memory: everyone's money originally came from someone working for it or even worse, obtaining it illegally. I guess that's where 'old' money vs 'new' comes into play. Yet, it all spends the same. I find it all confusing sometimes. I mean, the Bingleys are barely removed from their tradesman-made money and act as if it's already old and get away with it. Everyone in their circles must know and yet the pretense works... Even Darcy is not bothered by it as evidenced by his friendship with Bingley. In EMMA, Mr. Weston's money is new if I remember correctly but he manages to work his way into the upper circle. And people who used to be well off, and are no longer, seem to be able to maintain their status in their circles such as the Bates. I guess it wasn't always a hard and fast rule and sometimes circustances and luck could get you into the elite club or keep you there?.