Lawrence started to write 200 pages of this novel in 1913 and abandoned it, before completing the novel in 1920. The Lost Girl is often regarded as Lawrence’s forgotten novel and is a passionate tale of longing and sexual defiance. The story introduces Alvina Houghton, the daughter of a widowed Midlands draper, who comes of age just as her father’s business is failing. In a desperate attempt to regain his fortune and secure his daughter s proper upbringing, James Houghton buys a theatre. Among the traveling performers he employs is Ciccio, a sensual Italian, who immediately captures Alvina’s attention. Fleeing with him to Naples, she leaves her safe world behind and enters one of sexual awakening, desire and fleeting freedom.