"A Civil Contract" by Georgette Heyer explores themes of duty, social standing, and the complexities of love and arranged marriages in Regency England. The story revolves around a young man, who reluctantly marries a woman of lesser social rank to resolve his family’s financial difficulties. This arrangement leads him to reconsider his values and the nature of true happiness, as he learns that love can develop in unexpected ways.

The quote, "I'll say no more about that, or I'll be falling into the dismals," reflects the characters' struggles with their circumstances and the weight of societal expectations. It emphasizes the inner conflict that arises from balancing personal desires with external pressures. Heyer skillfully illustrates how characters navigate their feelings while adhering to social norms, providing an engaging portrayal of the human experience within the constraints of their era.