Thanks for the review, Bonnie, of an interesting set.
I agree about the colours - they are a bit garish.
The woman and the man with the top hat look like they could have come from a Charles Dickens novel, so they would fit in with the Victorian theme to add a bit of the underbelly of the times.
I'm glad to see the wooden crate back - could I have part numbers, please, Bonnie? - it makes good luggage for the steam train. The printing can always be removed or painted over.
BTW, they these sets limited to the US? - I can't see them in the UK 2012 catalogue.
EDIT: the hanging plant appeared in the 3664 beach lifeguard set as seaweed.