The Man Who Wins

"The Man Who Wins" by Robert Herrick is a compelling tale of a New England family's descent from respectability to disgrace in the late 1800s. The story follows the Ellwell family, particularly John, whose poor decisions set off a chain of events leading to scandal and addiction, while his sister Leonora struggles to cope with their family's shattered reputation. Set against the backdrop of their ancestral estate, Four Corners, the narrative traces the family's history, showcasing generational changes and the impact of John's questionable behavior on his father's efforts to uphold the family name. The story hints at how intertwined lives, like that of young Roper Thornton, could either challenge or perpetuate the Ellwell family's legacy.