This is one of those extraordinary books from Victorian times in which the characters absolutely refuse to be unhappy. They know nothing of regret, despite their outrageous conduct, but find excitement, joy, and love by resolutely pursuing their desires to the very end. There are two couples: Lady Lovesport, the widowed mistress of a vast estate, and her tireless lover, Mr. Everard; Lady Lovesport's niece, Emily, a delightfully virginal and curious young girl of quality, and her lover, Harry, who is audacious. At first the youngsters find their way to each other, but are soon taken in by the older couple to form a close-knit circle in which flogging is not the least of the excesses.