Kelly began writing the story in 1766 and it was published in London by William Griffin on 31 March 1767.

[3] In 1767 a play The Widowed Wife by William Kenrick appeared at Drury Lane Theatre which bore close resemblance to the plot of Kelly's novel.

After fighting a duel with Louisa's brother, Colonel Mildmay, Sir Robert flees to the Continent.

She eventually manages to escape and takes shelter in the London Magdelan House for reformed prostitutes.

After hearing of Louisa's fate, Sir Robert returns from Europe and fights Hastings in a duel, badly wounding him.