Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South- Thornton's changing relationship with Higgins?

Mr. Thornton started to really see Mr. Higgins not just as an employee (and a rabble rouser at that as he was a union man), but as a person and even as a friend. Although Thornton always cared about his employees, prior to this it was mostly from a business standpoint; happier, healthier workers will do a better job. The reason why he had wheels in his mill for years and why he didn't have "unparliamentary smoke" fuming from his chimneys was because it saved him money. After he befriends Higgins he still keeps this business mentality, but really takes into consideration the well being of his workers as he tries to bridge the gap between master and worker. This is particularly evident when he sets up a mess hall for the workers, and when he chooses to eat there on occasion amongst his workers. Also, when he loses the mill, he expresses more regret in his loss of connection with his workers than as loss of income or the accompanying shame that might come from it. (Chapter LI- the quotes are too long to put in here.) Higgins, in turn, respects Thornton more as well and considers him to be a friend. This is demonstrated most in the round-robin started by Higgins collecting names of people who would work for Thornton again, but also in little things like inviting him to eat at the mess hall and in Higgins telling Thornton about Frederick.

Margaret's lingering presence helps to tie them together as Thornton needs to have some connection to Margaret. Higgins knows that Thornton cares for Margaret and he approves of this match as he respects both of them and wants to help them overcome their differences.

And you should really try reading the book, or at least watching the BBC miniseries. It's quite good and let's face it, Mr Darcy has nothing on Mr. Thornton. (And Richard Armitage..., well, need I say more)