The Ordeal of Elizabeth

** "The Ordeal of Elizabeth" by Anonymous is a story about Elizabeth Van Vorst, a young woman facing tough choices about love, family, and her place in the world. Set in the early 1900s, Elizabeth deals with strict rules and expectations while trying to figure out who she really is. The story starts with the Van Vorst family, showing the sadness of Madam Van Vorst and her kids, Cornelia, Joanna, and Peter, who are dealing with not having much money and losing their social status. After their mom dies, the daughters feel both sad and free, realizing they want more out of life. Peter's marriage and Elizabeth's seemingly dull life are shown alongside the hope for something better, especially for young Elizabeth, who will soon have to face her own goals and the limits put on her by her family and the world around her. **