The shop is crowded and most goods can only be reached from behind the counter - allowing the smooth-talking Arkwright a chance to hawk more of his goods. The till is very old and has a vicious spring on its draw, which terrifies Granville.
Across the road from the shop lives Nurse Gladys Emmanuel (Lynda Baron), Arkwright's long-standing fiancée and much of the old skinflint's time is dedicated to trying to convince her to make good on her promise to marry him, or at least sleep with him. Unfortunately Nurse Gladys has both her rounds and taking care of her elderly mother to occupy her. She is protective of Granville and tries to use her influence with Arkwright to get him a better lot in life.
Episodes generally involve some plan by Arkwright to try to wed Nurse Gladys, save money or flog more stuff to the locals (who are mostly wise to his schemes) and end with Arkwright shutting up shop and praying as he walks round - mostly a matter-of-fact reflection on the day, addressed to God.