How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Mrs. Morel came of an old burgher family, famous independents who had fought with Colonel Hutchinson, and who remained stout Congregationalists. Her grandfather had gone bankrupt in the lace-market at a time when so many lace-manufacturers were ruined in Nottingham. (1.62)
This early passage describes Mrs. Morel's family history, and provides some context for her self-pride. It's this pride that gives rise to her frustrated ambitions, which she later forces onto her sons William and Paul. It's all related, see? And everything made sense forever.
Quote #2
While the baby was still tiny, the father's temper had become so irritable that it was not to be trusted. The child had only to give a little trouble when the man began to bully. A little more, and the hard hands of the collier hit the baby. (1.167)
Even this early on in the story, we can already see how Walter's anger and meanness will end up destroying him. Not to mention the rest of his family. The fact that the dude can't keep his patience with a crying baby suggests he's a bit babyish himself—he wants the world to do whatever he wants it to do. The end.
Quote #3
"You don't get as drunk as a lord on nothing," she replied. "And," she cried, flashing into sudden fury, "if you've been sponging on your beloved Jerry, why, let him look after his children, for they need it." (1.242)
For Walter to go out and spend his family's grocery money on booze is one thing. But for him to go out and spend some other family's grocery money on the sauce is another. In this scene, Mrs. Morel harps on Walter to stop sponging off his friend, and let the poor man's family have a little something to eat.