What is implied in this sentence from Mark Twain's "The £1,000,000 Bank-Note"?

I was puzzled, and wanted to discuss the matter a little further, but they didn't; so I took my leave, feeling hurt and insulted to be made the butt of what was apparently some kind of a practical joke, and yet obliged to put up with it, not being in circumstances to resent affronts from rich and strong folk.

Question

What is implied in this sentence from Mark Twain's "The £1,000,000 Bank-Note"?

I was puzzled, and wanted to discuss the matter a little further, but they didn't; so I took my leave, feeling hurt and insulted to be made the butt of what was apparently some kind of a practical joke, and yet obliged to put up with it, not being in circumstances to resent affronts from rich and strong folk.

anonymous · Answer

Rich Londoners would frequently hand out gifts to poor people.
Rich people often enjoyed testing their wits against poorer folks.
Poor people were expected to tolerate any ridicule made by the rich.
Londoners loved playing practical jokes on their friends.
Americans were more tolerant of ridicule than the English.