Mansfield

"She unclasped the necklet quickly; quickly, without looking, laid it inside."

In this excerpt, Miss Brill refers to the fur she describes in the opening paragraph of the story.  This fur represents much more than a luxurious item of clothing.  It is an attempt for the English woman to blend in with the French culture.  Since Miss Brill teaches English, I am assuming she appears different to many of the people in France.  Miss Brill does not want to stand out; however, she is obviously failing miserably.  I think the fur also represents a kind of companion.  Since she enjoys people watching, Miss Brill must be pretty lonely at home.  The prized fur symbolizes something she can be attached to such as a pet.  Even though it is a little creepy, this is also very sad.  Since all the French people ostracize Miss Brill, she must turn to a fur coat in order to feel wanted.  She also does this when she thinks about being a part of the "play" that takes place every Sunday.