"His lordship may compel us to be equal upstairs, but there will never be equality in the servants' hall"

This quote by J. M. Barrie talks to the power characteristics between the upper class and the lower class. The speaker is likely a servant, and they are acknowledging that the upper class may have the ability to force them to be equal in the existence of the lord, but that there will never hold true equality in between the 2 classes. This quote talks to the power imbalance in between the upper and lower classes, and how the upper class has the power to dictate the terms of the relationship. The speaker is most likely revealing their aggravation at the unfairness of the scenario, and how they are powerless to change it. This quote also speaks with the idea of classism, and how it can be difficult to break down the barriers in between the two classes. The speaker is likely revealing their desire for true equality, however comprehending that it is not likely to occur.