She had made good her footing at Rich's theatre and could she only tide over the summer months she would be on the stepping stones of success.

But meanwhile?
She took Rich's advice and went to the Little Theatre.

She found she had not the ghost of a chance of an engagement.

Drury Lane and the Duke's Theatres were closed (Covent Garden Theatre was not then built), and actors and actresses of established reputation were clamorous for something to do.

Lavinia retired discomfited.
She had to go back to Huddy's, to the mumming booth and the innyard.
There was no help for it.