In The Duchess and the Jeweller, what was Oliver's childhood like? Please explain.

The Duchess and the Jeweller is a
short story by Virginia Woolf. In the story, the duchess is apparently a woman of means
and privilege and Oliver prides himself on having been able to rise above his own lowly
status to a point where he is in a position to consider and either accept or decline
"cards of invitation... from duchesses, countesses, viscountesses and Honorable Ladies."
To Oliver this reveals his importance. However, he soon admits that he "began life in a
filthy little alley." This fact makes Oliver feel insecure and he "dismantled himself
often and became again a little boy in a dark alley..." It is apparent to the reader
that his childhood has left Oliver feeling unbalanced and filled with self-doubt.
Surrounding himself with wealth is the answer for Oliver in attempting to overcome his
vulnerabilities. 

The reader also learns more about
Oliver's poor and seemingly difficult childhood when he recalls an occasion when "he had
been done" or arrested for illegally trying to sell dogs to upper class ladies. Oliver's
mother was apparently a significant role model in his childhood, wanting him to better
himself. After witnessing his mother's dismay at that time, his life begins to change
because Oliver has never been one to miss an opportunity. Knowing where the money is, he
starts working "behind a counter... then he had taken a wallet to Amsterdam..." After
this he is accepted into a more respected profession, as a jeweler. It seems that Oliver
is a fast learner and soon recognizes the advantage of mimicking the older and renowned
jewelers, building a reputation for himself. He feels more successful as he acquires
expensive properties and possessions. 

However, Oliver's
worldly success leaves a gap in his life that cannot be filled with his wealth. His need
to please his deceased mother's memory also indicates something about his childhood. She
may have had high expectations and expected Oliver to acquire wealth rather than foster
meaningful relationships. Perhaps she was a domineering woman who thought her
relationship with her son should be sufficient for him. He craves love but even that
must come at a price which includes overlooking his mother's apparent displeasure.
Perhaps he has realized that relationships with people are more fulfilling that
relationships with possessions and so is prepared to overlook the duchess's deceit. His
mother would not approve but he tries to justify his decision, considering the
opportunity to spend a "long week-end" with Diana.