Emily Gould will be an allegory of altruism in the novel, and her presence in the towed cargo lighter suggests that altruism is also a "cargo" of the material interests, i.e., not crucial to its advance, though it is accorded a ceremonial "place of honour." The other "notabilities" being drawn along are presumably the native Spanish aristocrats.

To complete the picture one must imagine the windless day (since the lighter is being towed) and the smoke of the steam launch (industry) floating low over the passive dignitaries' heads.