The Lark

Jane and Lucilla are two young women whose futures look bright at first, since Jane's guardian has encouraged them to expect a great deal. That expectation collapses when the fortune Jane was meant to inherit disappears through poor investments. Left to support themselves, the friends must find their own way in the world.

Their new independence brings a run of misfortunes and sudden reversals, shifting their circumstances again and again. The story follows them through these hardships as they make their way.

In the end, the two girls encounter the men they hope will secure their happiness and financial stability. The novel is by Edith Nesbit, the author of several other well-known novels.