"The History of Sir Richard Calmady" describes the quest for love and acceptance of its disabled protagonist Sir Richard. In order to dissipate a family curse and to get over a failed engagement, Richard travels far and beyond and leads a life of utter dissipation. However, he quickly gets bored and returns home. His marriage of convenience to his lesbian cousin Honoria St Quentin adds another dimension in his life. What is Richard's destiny? Who is Honoria attracted towards?