This is one of the large number of erotic books published near the end of the nineteenth century that deal with the practice of erotic chastisement using rod or birch. The narrator is the personal maid of a rich lady who associates with others of her class for the purpose of whipping and being whipped, and relating stories of such activities. Several of the ladies' husbands share their 'love of the rod', but are excluded from their meetings. Other males are allowed supporting roles, including a youthful page, but the eroticism in the work lies in the flagellation itself, rather than any more conventional activity of a copulatory nature. The tale is also known as 'The Merry Order of St Bridget', and as with many books in the genre, the narrative takes the form of (one-sided) correspondence with a confidante. The 1997 edition is a reprint of the 1969 Canova Press/Luxor edition, although many editions are available. Its lack of overt eroticism beyond that inherent in routine chastisement limits its appeal for the enthusiast of erotica, but it certainly has historical interest pertaining to the late nineteenth century. ( )