"Susan Proudleigh" by Herbert George De Lisser is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the struggles and aspirations of Susan Proudleigh, a young woman navigating the complexities of social class and personal relationships in a marginalized community. As she contends with envy from her neighbors, complex family dynamics, and her engagement to a man named Tom, the narrative explores themes of pride, competition, and the pursuit of social standing. The beginning of "Susan Proudleigh" introduces readers to Susan, who feels the sting of social rivalry in her neighborhood, particularly from a woman named Mother Smith and her daughter Maria. The narrative captures Susan's bitterness over being the target of scorn, despite her belief in her superiority. Tensions escalate as she confronts Maria, leading to a physical altercation that becomes a matter for the local court. This opening portion sets the stage for the ensuing family drama, societal pressures, and Susan’s determination to assert her self-worth while facing the consequences of her actions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)