Andrew Manson

Andrew Manson, the protagonist, works diligently to become a physician. Although he grew up poor, Manson finishes college and medical school. In his first post, working with Edward Page, a physician in Blaenelly, Wales, the idealistic new doctor finds his position exploitative and questions his effectiveness. The novel chronicles the challenges Andrew faces in a poor, coal-mining town. Although lured to London by the prospect of a higher income working with Dr. Hampton, ultimately he decides to specialize in pulmonary complaints. Manson meets, courts, and marries Christine, but they later grow apart. He becomes friends with, but often has trouble respecting, another local doctor, Philip Denny. Later, however, they becomes partners in a new clinic. Manson also must learn to carry on after his wife’s death.

Christine Barlow

Christine Barlow, a teacher, eventually marries Manson. The book traces their relationship from their initial meeting in her classroom through their courtship, marriage, and temporary separation, to her tragic death in an accident. From their initial conflict stemming from Manson's concerns about health issues in her classroom, they grow close and later marry. Christine provides moral and intellectual support as he pursues additional education. Her idealism is a close match for his own, and she often must bolster his flagging morale. When he turns toward more lucrative ends, they grow apart. Christine is killed in an accident.

Philip Denny

Philip Denny is another Blaenelly doctor. An idealist striving not to become jaded, he quickly befriends Manson. Essentially a competent physician who assists Dr. Lewis, Philip’s abilities and personal life are marred by his problems with alcohol abuse. After Christine’s death, Philip's friendship buoys Manson, and eventually the two men open a clinic in Blaenelly.

Edward Page

Edward Page, Blaenelly’s senior physician, is Manson's first employer. He is affable but ineffective because he had a debilitating stroke. Although the older man actually can perform almost none of his duties, his wife pushes him to keeps his practice open.

Blodwen Page

Blodwen Page is several decades younger than her husband, Edward, whose failing practice she manages. To make ends meet and keep the business going, she encourages him to hire and exploit young assistants.

Freddy Hampton

Freddy Hampton was Manson’s classmate, but Hampton takes a different direction after becoming a physician. In London, Hampton sets up a private practice for wealthy patients. His success temporarily dazzles Manson into joining him, but Manson balks at the rampant overcharging and unnecessary treatments. Hampton represents the negative aspects of a poorly regulated medical establishment.