THE NEW ROAD TO RUIN.

VOL. III.

THE

NEW ROAD TO RUIN.

A NOVEL.

BY LADY STEPNEY.

He, truly pitying
My father's loss, like a most royal prince
Restored me to my honours, and out of ruins
Made my name once more noble.

SHAKSPEARE.

IN THREE VOLUMES.

VOL. III.

LONDON:

RICHARD BENTLEY, NEW BURLINGTON STREET.

(SUCCESSOR TO HENRY COLBURN.)

THE NEW ROAD TO RUIN.

CHAPTER 1.

Look round the habitable world ; how few
Know their own good, or, knowing it, pursue.
How void of reason are our hopes and fears !
What in the conduct of our life appears
So well designed, so luckily begun,
But, when we have our wish, we wish undone ?

DRYDEN.

“ I AM so sorry you do not go with me today,” said Ellen, as Lorevaine arranged her music on the harp-stand. “ I feel unprotected without you."

“ Do you ?” he replied delightedly. “I can put off my engagement very easily, and will certainly go with you.

Oh, I am so glad !" Ellen exclaimed ; “ now