This is a Victorian Cautionary Tale concerning two young people married to each other by order of their fathers, and for business reasons. Their wedding night, and subsequent events prove difficult for the uninformed youngsters, but they are helped by an older lady's maid.
A Story in the Disappointment, Betrayal, and Revenge Universe
One man learns that self-deception is the easiest kind, and that trust is sometimes rewarded with disloyalty. He survives, though, and life goes on. This is not a story with a happy or satisfying ending! If you can't handle that, don't read it.