In the excerpt from P.G. Wodehouse's "Plum Pie," the speaker expresses a strong disdain towards the subject, referring to them as a cowardly disgrace to their illustrious family's history. The speaker highlights that the subject's ancestors were valiant figures in the Crusades, contrasting their bravery with the subject's reluctance to take on a jolly role like Santa Claus in front of innocent children. This criticism underscores a perceived failure to uphold the family’s proud legacy.

The metaphor of the subject cringing like a "salted snail" emphasizes their cowardice and regret, provoking a sense of disappointment. The speaker's declaration that it would take more than flowers to change their opinion illustrates a deep-seated animosity. The final remark about an aunt turning her face to the wall conveys the gravity of the situation, suggesting that the subject's behavior is so shameful that it could drive family members to despair.