The aside provides a tiny yet interesting glimpse into Mrs Gould's character.
Punch was, of course, a humorous and satirical magazine, suggesting that
Mrs Gould has more enjoyment of wit than she can express in her public life, or
even in a "room" that her husband shares. It was also a decidedly radical
magazine, which dovetails with her altruism and her opposition to the ruling forces
of politics and finance.