My recollection were that George and Nell were being mocked by their portrayal.

In particular, their narcissism and entitlement was underscored by several decisions to make them as vulgar in their flirting as possible. I remember -- I will never forget, seared as deeply on my soul as it is -- the business with the hand gestures aka Little Bunny Froo-Froo and your explanation of the significance of the concept "coney".

Which, I have to say, deeply enriched my understanding of the period.