] How was the sale and purchase of next presentations perceived by members of the upper classes less mercenary than RD? Was this a respectable way to acquire patronage on behalf of a younger son or a nephew?

One of the livings Jane Austen's father held had been bought on his behalf by an uncle of his, Francis Austen. It was a living adjacent to the Steventon rectory JA's father already held. Later Francis sold another nearby living to someone else, who gave it to his nephew.

If you wish the full background on all this, the best source I have seen is Peter Virgin, "The Church in an Age of Negligence."