# Clarissa — Chapters explained > Chapter companions for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson. - [Clarissa](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/clarissa.md): The opening of the novel introduces Clarissa Harlowe, a young woman of virtue and sensibility, whose family pressures her to marry the wealthy but repulsive Mr. Solmes. Despite her refusal, her family intensifies their c - [Letter 1: Miss Anna Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-1-miss-anna-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing concern over the public disturbances in the Harlowe family following the duel between Clarissa's brother James and Mr. Lovelace. She relays reports that James was the aggressor and - [Letter 2: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-2-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, responding to her praise with humility and confessing that she often borrows Anna's ideas. She describes the family turmoil following the 'unhappy transaction' and her own distress at being - [Letter 3: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-3-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts to Anna Howe how Lovelace, after being rejected by her sister Arabella, turned his attentions to her. She describes the family's divided opinions on his suit, her own initial indifference, and the circu - [Letter 4: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-4-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts the arrival of her brother James from Scotland and his vehement opposition to Mr. Lovelace, detailing the family's escalating hostility, the duel between James and Lovelace, and the subsequent pressure - [Letter 5: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-5-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe explaining her delay in correspondence due to her mother's illness. She reflects on the family tensions caused by the conflict over Mr. Lovelace, her brother and sister's caballing against he - [Letter 6: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-6-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa updates Anna on family tensions following her brother's injury. Her parents grant permission for her to visit Anna, but her brother James insists she must not see Lovelace. Clarissa accepts the condition but not - [Letter 7: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-7-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe describing her abrupt return home and the hostile reception she received from her family. She reveals that her brother and sister have orchestrated a new suitor, the odious Mr. Solmes, whom e - [Letter 8: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-8-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about the escalating pressure from her family to marry Mr. Solmes. She describes how her brother and sister manipulate her parents, her father's stern command for obedience, and the prohibiti - [Letter 9: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-9-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her family's pressure to marry Mr. Solmes, revealing that her brother James has manipulated their father against her. She describes her aunt's visit and advice to comply, but Clarissa r - [Letter 10: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-10-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing astonishment and outrage at the proposal that Clarissa marry Mr. Solmes. She criticizes Clarissa's family for their avarice and envy, and urges Clarissa to be more assertive. Anna - [Letter 11: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-11-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa responds to Miss Howe's playful accusation that she harbors romantic feelings for Lovelace. She defends herself, insisting she does not love him, and enumerates her objections to his character—his questionable m - [Letter 12: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-12-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, playfully teasing her about not being in love with Lovelace while also sharing intelligence from Mrs. Fortescue about Lovelace's character. She describes him as industrious, secretive, and v - [Letter 13: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-13-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa explains to Anna Howe the family dynamics behind the push for Mr. Solmes's suit, revealing that her brother James and sister Arabella fear losing their inheritance if she marries Mr. Lovelace, as her uncles favo - [Letter 14: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-14-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe in increasing distress, revealing that her family is pressuring her to accept Mr. Solmes and may fix a day for her compliance. She notes that her sister Arabella has joined her brother James - [Letter 15: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-15-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing her dismay at the suitors proposed by the Harlowe family, particularly Solmes, and analyzes the motivations behind Arabella's hostility, revealing that Arabella still loves Lovelac - [Letter 16: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-16-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a painful day of family pressure to accept Mr. Solmes as a suitor. She describes a tense breakfast where Solmes's advances offend her, followed by a series of confrontations with her mother, who insists - [Letter 17: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-17-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a tense conversation with her mother, who pressures her to accept Mr. Solmes as a suitor. Clarissa protests her lack of inclination to marry and offers to break off correspondence with Lovelace if allow - [Letter 18: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-18-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a painful morning interview with her mother, who coldly rebukes her for sullenness and disobedience. Despite Clarissa's tearful pleas and embrace, Mrs. Harlowe remains distant, leaving Clarissa distraug - [Letter 19: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-19-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa responds to Anna's letter, defending her decision to relinquish control of her estate and reflecting on her family's pressures. She firmly rejects the prospect of marrying Mr. Solmes, asserting her moral duty to - [Letter 20: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-20-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a tense conference with her mother, who delivers an ultimatum: she must comply with the family's plan to marry Mr. Solmes or face disinheritance and estrangement. Despite her mother's pleas and threats, - [Letter 21: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-21-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a disastrous encounter with her mother and sister, where she is forced to remain in Mr. Solmes's presence and pleads for her mother's favorable report to her father. Her defiance leads to her mother's a - [Letter 22: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-22-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about a letter from Lovelace, co-signed by Lord M., in which he boasts of Solmes's claims to marry her and offers an asylum if she is tyrannized. She feels trapped between her family's pressu - [Letter 23: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-23-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about the dismissal of her faithful servant Hannah Burton, who is replaced by the impertinent Betty Barnes. Clarissa is devastated by this indignity, which she sees as another attempt by her - [Letter 24: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-24-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives a letter from her brother James, written by command of her parents, imposing strict confinement and forbidding correspondence with Lovelace, Miss Howe, or anyone else without leave. She is restricted to - [Letter 25: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-25-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe detailing her continued imprisonment and the family's pressure to marry Solmes. She describes her mother's refusal to intervene, her father's angry rejection of her plea for mercy, and her br - [Letter 26: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-26-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about receiving another letter from Lovelace, who seems to know everything happening in her family, including Hannah's dismissal and her family's resentments. She considers promising him she - [Letter 27: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-27-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with the Harlowe family's treatment of her and urging her to reclaim her inheritance. She criticizes Solmes and contrasts him unfavorably with Lovelace, while also dis - [Letter 28: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-28-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa rebukes Anna for her harsh criticisms of the Harlowe family, especially her mother, and defends her father's behavior as stemming from illness and love. She rejects Anna's advice to litigate for her estate, insi - [Letter 29: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-29-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe explaining her decision to change her tone with her family. She decides to let them believe she prefers Lovelace, hoping to alarm them into reconsidering their pressure to marry Solmes. She i - [Letter 30: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-30-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe expressing her unease and displeasure at Lovelace's bold appearance at church, which caused a commotion in her family. She criticizes his pride and haughty behavior, fears it may lead to furt - [Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-31-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from the countryside, expressing his frustration and obsession with Clarissa Harlowe. He describes the Harlowes' introduction of Solmes as a suitor, Clarissa's resistance and confinement, and h - [Letter 32: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-32-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, enclosing copies of her letters to her uncles and their replies. She passionately argues against being forced to marry Mr. Solmes, detailing the miseries of a forced marriage and pleading fo - [Letter 33: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-33-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Miss Howe detailing her failed attempt to discourage Mr. Solmes from pursuing her. She encloses her letter to Solmes, his reply, and a harsh letter from her brother James. Clarissa appeals to Solmes's - [Letter 34: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-34-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from a humble inn near Harlowe-place, describing his concealment and his fascination with a simple, innocent local girl he calls 'Rosebud.' He extols her purity and warns Belford not to corrupt - [Letter 35: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-35-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, boasting of his manipulation of the Harlowe family through his spy Joseph Leman. He describes how Leman has been planted to monitor Clarissa's movements and has falsely reported that she attem - [Letter 36: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-36-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about a terrifying encounter with Lovelace, who secretly meets her behind a wood-stack near her family's estate. She expresses her shock and displeasure at his bold intrusion, but he argues t - [Letter 37: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-37-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, urging her to be honest about her feelings for Lovelace. She criticizes Clarissa's family for their persecution and advises her to choose between Lovelace and Solmes. Anna playfully teases C - [Letter 38: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-38-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa responds to Anna's critical observations about her feelings for Lovelace, defending her openness and explaining that she writes her heart without reserve. She insists she has written more in dispraise than favor - [Letter 39: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-39-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts how her family enlisted Mrs. Norton to pressure her into marrying Mr. Solmes. Despite Mrs. Norton's gentle advocacy and Clarissa's offer to remain single, the family insists on absolute obedience, with - [Letter 40: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-40-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): In this midnight letter, Clarissa continues her defense against charges of reserve, analyzing Mr. Lovelace's character in both favorable and unfavorable lights. She weighs his sobriety, generosity, birth, and occasional - [Letter 41: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-41-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives a letter from her mother urging her to comply with the marriage to Mr. Solmes, offering rich silks, jewels, and financial independence as inducements. Clarissa rejects the offer, leading to a harsh ulti - [Letter 42: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-42-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a heated argument with her sister Arabella, who confronts her on behalf of the family for refusing Mr. Solmes. Arabella mocks Clarissa's piety and her supposed affection for Lovelace, while Clarissa def - [Letter 43: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-43-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa describes her anxious anticipation of the family conference, only to be confronted by her sister Arabella, who delivers the family's demand for unconditional obedience. Arabella mocks and insults Clarissa, who s - [Letter 44: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-44-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a visit from her aunt Hervey, accompanied by her sister Arabella, who attempts to persuade her to accept Mr. Solmes. Clarissa remains resolute, arguing for her right to remain single rather than marry a - [Letter 45: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-45-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a visit from her aunt Hervey and sister Arabella, who pressure her to accept Mr. Solmes. Despite her aunt's kneeling entreaties and Arabella's mocking insults, Clarissa remains steadfast in her refusal, - [Letter 46: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-46-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Howe responds to Clarissa's letter with a mix of playful banter and serious concern. She discusses her mother's visit to Mrs. Larking, humorously critiques Mr. Hickman's character and appearance, and reflects on Cla - [Letter 47: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-47-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, criticizing her resolution not to litigate for her rights and urging her to assert herself against her family's tyranny. She reflects on the dynamics of power, pride, and submission within t - [Letter 48: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-48-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Howe relays to Clarissa the results of Mr. Hickman's inquiries into Lovelace's reputation in London. Hickman encountered Lovelace's associates Belton and Mowbray, who praised Lovelace's qualities but said nothing of - [Letter 49: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-49-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa about an unexpected visit from Lovelace, who seeks her help to win Clarissa's favor. Lovelace proposes schemes for Clarissa to escape her family's persecution, including resuming her estate w - [Letter 50: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-50-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives a letter from her brother James, conveying the family's unanimous resolution that she must go to her uncle Antony's house to receive Mr. Solmes's visits. The letter threatens confinement and isolation, - [Letter 51: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-51-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa reports that her family is in an uproar over her refusal to comply with their demands. Her brother James writes a more moderate letter, endorsed by her mother, insisting she visit her uncle Antony's estate to en - [Letter 52: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-52-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa forwards to Anna Howe a harsh letter from her brother James, which accuses her of manipulation and defiance, demands her submission to the family's will, and threatens her removal to Uncle Antony's estate. In he - [Letter 53: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-53-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa reports that she is to be sent to her uncle Antony's house, and recounts overhearing her brother James, sister Arabella, and Mr. Solmes laughing and triumphing over her. She writes a defiant letter to her brothe - [Letter 54: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-54-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa shares a cruel letter from her sister Arabella, who mocks her defiance and announces that she is to be sent to her uncle Antony's house. Clarissa's mother responds with a tear-stained note, reaffirming the famil - [Letter 55: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-55-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): In a calmer midnight moment, Clarissa reflects on Anna's letters, defending Mr. Hickman's character and gently chiding Anna for her harsh portrayal of him. She then addresses the proposal to assume her estate, explaining - [Letter 56: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-56-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing her admiration and sympathy for Clarissa's plight. She condemns the Harlowe family's persecution and Solmes's crude views on marriage, and offers conflicted advice, urging Clariss - [Letter 57: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-57-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her deep aversion to Mr. Solmes and her refusal to marry him, while also discussing her conflicted feelings about Mr. Lovelace and her determination not to leave her father's hous - [Letter 58: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-58-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Howe relays a conversation with her mother about the nature of love versus duty in marriage, using Clarissa's situation as a case study. Mrs. Howe argues that marriages based on love often fail, while those based on - [Letter 59: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-59-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing apprehension after receiving a letter from Mr. Solmes requesting a private meeting under the pretense of revealing information about Lovelace. She refuses to see him, writing a sh - [Letter 60: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-60-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives a tender letter from her uncle John Harlowe, urging her to comply with the family's wishes and marry Mr. Solmes. She responds with a proposal to renounce her grandfather's estate in favor of her sister - [Letter 61: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-61-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe in a state of deep distress, having proposed to renounce her inheritance and live single to avoid marrying Mr. Solmes. Her family rejects the proposal, accusing her of artfulness and rebellio - [Letter 62: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-62-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives a harsh letter from her uncle John Harlowe, who condemns her defiance and informs her that she is to be sent to her uncle Antony's moated house on Thursday, where she will be pressured to marry Solmes. - [Letter 63: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-63-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, recounting a sharp dialogue with the impertinent servant Betty Barnes, who delivers a letter from Uncle John Harlowe demanding Clarissa's compliance with the family's plan to marry her to So - [Letter 64: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-64-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe recounting her distress after receiving an angry, impassioned letter from Lovelace, who accuses her of breaking a promise to meet him. She defends her decision to change her mind, rebukes his - [Letter 65: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-65-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe explains her recent silence due to being forced by her mother to accompany her to visit a dying cousin, Mrs. Larkin. She describes the tedious journey, her disdain for Mr. Hickman's foppish behavior, and her mo - [Letter 66: Mr. Hickman, to Mrs. Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-66-mr-hickman-to-mrs-howe.md): Mr. Hickman writes to Mrs. Howe expressing his despair over Miss Howe's apparent scorn and his decision to discontinue his addresses, despite his deep love and Mrs. Howe's approval. He reflects on the impossibility of fo - [Letter 67: Mrs. Howe, to Charles Hickman, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-67-mrs-howe-to-charles-hickman-esq.md): Mrs. Howe writes to Mr. Hickman, defending her daughter Nancy's skittish behavior and advising him to be patient. She argues that Nancy's free treatment of him indicates her favorable regard, and warns against comparing - [Letter 68: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-68-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Howe responds to Clarissa's recent letters, offering a mix of reproof and advice. She warns against Lovelace's manipulative 'ingenuity' and cautions Clarissa about the dangers of forgiving his faults. She also advis - [Letter 69: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-69-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, acknowledging her silence and expressing anxiety over their friendship. She defends Anna's satirical style as instructive and good-natured, contrasting it with the harsh satire of modern wri - [Letter 70: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-70-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe reports on her investigation into Lovelace's behavior at an inn, where he has been pursuing a young innocent girl named Rosebud. She details his rakish activities, his deception of the locals, and expresses her - [Letter 71: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-71-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna in a state of alarm after hearing rumors about Lovelace's involvement with a young, innocent girl in disguise. She condemns his behavior and expresses her determination to avoid him, refusing to o - [Letter 72: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-72-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Howe writes to Clarissa to correct her earlier accusation against Lovelace, revealing that after further inquiry she finds him innocent of the charge. She describes how Lovelace has helped a young country girl and h - [Letter 73: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-73-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, reflecting on her hasty censure of Lovelace regarding the 'pretty rustic' incident, which has been cleared up. She acknowledges Lovelace's faults but appreciates his generosity, though she r - [Letter 74: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-74-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe acknowledges receipt of Clarissa's parcel and discusses the traitor Joseph Leman's vigilance. She recounts reading Clarissa's letters to her mother, who is charmed by Clarissa's sentiments. Anna's conversation - [Letter 75: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-75-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa describes a day of puzzling behavior from her family, who treat her with unexpected kindness and avoid discussing the forced marriage to Solmes. She recounts visits from Dr. Lewen and her uncle Harlowe, both of - [Letter 76: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-76-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her distress over the impending meeting with Mr. Solmes and sharing Lovelace's urgent warnings and proposals for her escape. She reiterates her determination to never marry Solmes - [Letter 77: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-77-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe on the morning of her dreaded interview with Mr. Solmes. She describes a sleepless night and a tense visit from her aunt Hervey, who pressures her to comply with her family's wishes and recei - [Letter 78: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-78-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa describes a tense confrontation with her family and Mr. Solmes, who is presented as a suitor. She resists their pressure, defends her principles, and argues against Solmes's character while hinting at her prefer - [Letter 79: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-79-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe detailing the escalating pressures from her family to marry Mr. Solmes. She describes her aunt's attempt to persuade her to hear Solmes's accusations against Lovelace, a violent confrontation - [Letter 80: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-80-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, describing her growing desperation as her family tightens control over her. She has deposited a long letter and Lovelace's letters, and finds another from Lovelace urging her to escape befor - [Letter 81: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-81-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's letters detailing the interview with Solmes. She expresses outrage at the Harlowe family's treatment of Clarissa, praises her spirit, and offers advice on possible courses of action, incl - [Letter 82: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-82-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa reflects on her dire situation, acknowledging her family's hostility and her own hidden pride. She rejects Anna's proposals to elope with Lovelace or seek protection from his family, and instead considers escapi - [Letter 83: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-83-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa reveals that her family, having received intelligence of Lovelace's violent intentions, has changed their plan: instead of sending her to her uncle's, they intend to force her to marry Solmes on Wednesday. Her a - [Letter 84: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-84-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe recounting a disturbing dream and her aunt Hervey's visit. She has sent a letter to Lovelace and now regrets it. Her aunt pressures her to comply with her family's demand to marry Solmes, but - [Letter 85: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-85-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about a letter from Lovelace full of vows and promises, proposing she escape to Lady Betty Lawrance's protection. She is torn between the pressure from her family to marry Solmes and her fear - [Letter 86: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-86-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe detailing her decision to leave her family home with Lovelace's assistance on Monday next. She outlines the terms of her departure, including her insistence on privacy, her refusal to litigat - [Letter 87: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-87-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration over her mother's interference and the family's pressure on Clarissa to marry Solmes. She urges Clarissa to consider eloping with her instead of Lovelace, and if she m - [Letter 88: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-88-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives an ecstatic reply from Lovelace, who promises to comply with all her wishes regarding a private lodging and future plans. He assures her of his family's support, financial security, and willingness to r - [Letter 89: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-89-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa responds to Anna's critical letter, defending her own conduct and explaining her decision to revoke her appointment with Lovelace. She resolves to face her family's pressure to marry Solmes, hoping to sway them - [Letter 90: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-90-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe on Sunday, April 9, describing her family's mistrust and surveillance. She has written to Lovelace to suspend their planned elopement, hoping for a peaceful resolution. She fears being forced - [Letter 91: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-91-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe from the Ivy Summerhouse, detailing a visit from her aunt who conducts a search of her belongings under family orders. Clarissa cleverly complies to avoid suspicion while secretly preparing f - [Letter 92: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-92-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe in deep distress after eloping with Lovelace. She confesses her rashness and seeks forgiveness, asking Anna to suspend judgment until she can explain fully. She requests her linen parcel and - [Letter 93: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-93-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa in shock after learning of her elopement with Lovelace. She expresses astonishment that Clarissa changed her mind, blames her family for pushing her to it, and urgently advises her to marry L - [Letter 94: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-94-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Miss Howe, expressing deep self-reproach and fear of social condemnation. She recounts her internal debate about whether to elope with Lovelace, her attempts to rationalize staying, and the tense confr - [Letter 95: Mr. Lovelace, to Joseph Leman](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-95-mr-lovelace-to-joseph-leman.md): Lovelace writes to Joseph Leman, detailing his plan for Clarissa's escape from her family's garden. He instructs Joseph to create a disturbance to frighten Clarissa into fleeing with him, and provides elaborate signals a - [Letter 96: To Robert Lovelace, Esquier, His Honner](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-96-to-robert-lovelace-esquier-his-honner.md): Joseph Leman writes to Lovelace, expressing his gratitude for Lovelace's bounty but also his anxiety about the intricate and risky commands he has been given. He reassures Lovelace of his loyalty and honesty, while also - [Letter 97: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-97-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from St. Alban's, exulting in his successful elopement with Clarissa. He revels in his triumph over her family, yet is troubled by her evident grief and lack of affection. He resolves to test h - [Letter 98: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-98-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts her forced elopement with Lovelace, describing the frantic journey to St. Alban's and her subsequent distress. She details her arrival at an inn, where Lovelace pretends to be her brother to explain her - [Letter 99: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-99-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, boasting of his successful elopement with Clarissa. He describes her beauty and dress in detail, revels in his power over her, and debates whether to marry her or seduce her. He acknowledges h - [Letter 100: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-100-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing unwavering support and admiration for her friend's integrity despite the family's harsh treatment. She recounts a visit from Uncle Antony, who attempted to turn Mrs. Howe against - [Letter 101: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-101-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing deep concern over the discord between Anna and her mother caused by their correspondence. She reflects on her own loss of character and the painful doubts she endures. Clarissa ad - [Letter 102: To Miss Arabella Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-102-to-miss-arabella-harlowe.md): Clarissa writes to her sister Arabella, confessing that her elopement with Lovelace was a rash and undutiful act, but one driven by her family's severity and the threat of being forced to marry Solmes. She expresses a de - [Letter 103: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-103-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts to Belford the journey and arrival at St. Albans with Clarissa, detailing his manipulation of perceptions (posing as a brother), his arguments with Clarissa, his internal conflict between desire for mar - [Letter 104: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-104-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his efforts to maintain Clarissa's trust by introducing Mrs. Greme as a respectable companion and allowing her to choose lodgings. He reflects on his rakish reputation, his manipulation o - [Letter 105: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-105-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his ongoing correspondence with Clarissa, his schemes to control her communications, and his plans to prevent a reconciliation with her family. He discusses his alias 'Robert Huntingford, - [Letter 106: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-106-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace exults over Clarissa's escape from marrying Solmes, comparing the Harlowe family to timid spiders and himself to a bold adventurer above the law. He muses on his past misdeeds, blaming women for his moral failin - [Letter 107: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-107-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a heated debate with Lovelace, who demands more of her time and company. She rebukes his impertinence and insists on her independence. Lovelace apologizes and proposes a speedy marriage, but Clarissa, t - [Letter 108: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-108-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, reflecting on his pursuit of Clarissa and his frustration at her rejection. He boasts of his restraint and plans to feign reformation to win her over, while expressing anger at her criticisms - [Letter 109: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-109-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, boasting of his psychological victory over Clarissa. He interprets her distress and silent tears as a sign of her hidden desire for marriage, and he resolves to continue his manipulative games - [Letter 110: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-110-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace engages in a self-justifying argument with Belford, questioning the foundations of Clarissa's virtue. He speculates that her virtue may be rooted in pride rather than principle, and rationalizes his plan to test - [Letter 111: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-111-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's letters, defending her own quarrels with her mother and urging Clarissa not to be overly self-accusatory. She reports that Clarissa's family has refused to send her money and clothes, and - [Letter 112: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-112-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing hope that her family will eventually reconcile with her and send her clothes and money. She reflects on her relationship with Lovelace, denying that she ever encouraged him or pro - [Letter 113: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-113-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa confronts Lovelace about the garden-door incident and his manipulation of Joseph Leman. Lovelace confesses to bribing Leman to spy on her family and to orchestrating the alarm that forced her to flee with him. H - [Letter 114: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-114-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her confrontation with Lovelace, expressing her disgust at his manners, contrivances, and threats against her brother and Solmes. Lovelace dismisses his menaces as mere pleasantry and c - [Letter 115: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-115-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace exults in his schemes against the Harlowes, mocking their foolishness and predicting Clarissa's fall. He recounts his conversation with her about the garden-door noise, boasts of his stratagems, and reflects on - [Letter 116: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-116-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a conversation with Lovelace in which he reports that her family has ceased pursuing her, proposes a move to Windsor, and offers to send for her servant Hannah. Lovelace confesses his rakish past and ex - [Letter 117: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-117-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, defending his vanity and boasting of his inventive schemes. He recounts his interactions with Clarissa, his efforts to regain her favor after alarming her with threats, and his strategic propo - [Letter 118: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-118-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing frustration that he cannot oblige Clarissa to accept money or gifts from him, as he believes financial dependence would humble her pride. He recounts his manipulative proposal to ha - [Letter 119: Miss Howe, to Mis Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-119-miss-howe-to-mis-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing her mixed feelings about Lovelace's apparent candor and self-accusations. She advises Clarissa to marry the canon as soon as possible, while also criticizing her for meeting Lovel - [Letter 120: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-120-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her doubts about Lovelace's sincerity and reformation. She reflects on her precarious situation, considers seeking Lady Betty's protection, and shares a letter from Mrs. Greme pra - [Letter 121: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-121-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe recounting Lovelace's return from Windsor, where he found no suitable apartments. She describes their heated argument about her staying at Mrs. Sorlings's, his proposal to put herself under L - [Letter 122: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-122-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, describing Lovelace's sudden humility and his apparent acceptance of her terms for reconciliation with her family. He shows her parts of letters from Lady Betty Lawrance and Miss Montague, w - [Letter 123: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-123-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her conversation with Lovelace, in which she resists his urgings to go to Lady Betty's, expresses her desire for independence and reconciliation with her family, and criticizes his libe - [Letter 124: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-124-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a conversation with Lovelace in which she attempts to reprove him for his faults, but he deflects with flattery and shifts the discussion to practical proposals for her future. He offers to arrange her - [Letter 125: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-125-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa and Lovelace discuss possible living arrangements and servants. Lovelace offers to fetch her maid Hannah or Mrs. Norton, but Clarissa hesitates, fearing to embroil others with her family. She considers London bu - [Letter 126: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-126-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her restless night and a morning conversation with Lovelace regarding suitable London lodgings. They discuss the difficulty of finding accommodations that are independent of Lovelace's - [Letter 127: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-127-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, recounting his return to find Clarissa in a solemn mood after receiving letters from Anna Howe. He describes his frustration at being kept at a distance, his schemes to intercept their corresp - [Letter 128: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-128-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, discussing the pressures from Clarissa's family and society for her to marry Lovelace, the dangers of delay, and her own mother's interference. She analyzes Lovelace's character, advises Cla - [Letter 129: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-129-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing relief that Anna approves of her move to London, but is deeply troubled by the disagreement between Anna and her mother. She insists on knowing the full details, and offers to acc - [Letter 130: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-130-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa shares Mr. Doleman's letter detailing potential London lodgings, including a widow's house in Dover Street. She chooses those lodgings, discusses her travel plans, and notes Lovelace's considerate gestures, such - [Letter 131: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-131-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace shares with Belford his scheme to secure lodgings in London for Clarissa, revealing his manipulation of the correspondence with Mr. Doleman and his delight in outwitting her. He boasts of his plot, including the - [Letter 132: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-132-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe warns Clarissa that her brother James plans to find her, waylay her, and have her taken by ship to a remote house, while also pursuing a prosecution against Lovelace. Anna advises Clarissa to inform Lovelace of - [Letter 133: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-133-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing deep concern over Anna's disobedience to her mother. She argues that filial duty is paramount and that Anna's rebellious actions, though motivated by friendship, are unjustifiable - [Letter 134: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-134-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, gently reproaching her for her critical and supercilious treatment of Mr. Hickman, defending his modest and worthy character, and reflecting on the nature of modesty versus confidence. She a - [Letter 135: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-135-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna about the prohibition on their correspondence, expressing her need to write and her desire to continue under certain conditions. She discusses the possibility of reconciling with her family and th - [Letter 136: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-136-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, explaining that her mother refuses to comply with Clarissa's condition to cease their correspondence. Anna defends her decision to continue writing, arguing that the prohibition stems from t - [Letter 137: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-137-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about Lovelace's report of her brother James's scheme to have her kidnapped by Captain Singleton. She discusses her fears and Lovelace's reaction, which she finds both reassuring and troublin - [Letter 138: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-138-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts to Belford a moment of vulnerability where he nearly proposed marriage to Clarissa, overcome by her beauty and confusion. He describes his impulsive offer, her tearful refusal, and his realization that - [Letter 139: To Robert Lovelace, Esq. His Honner](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-139-to-robert-lovelace-esq-his-honner.md): Joseph Leman writes to Lovelace about gathering evidence from his cousin Titus regarding Lovelace's past seduction and rape of Miss Batirton of Nottingham, which Solmes planned to use against Lovelace. Leman expresses fe - [Letter 140: Mr. Lovelace, to Joseph Leman](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-140-mr-lovelace-to-joseph-leman.md): Lovelace writes to Joseph Leman, reassuring him of his abilities and addressing Joseph's qualms about his past with Miss Betterton. He defends his character, claiming he is reformed and strictly virtuous now, and outline - [Letter 141: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Hervey](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-141-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-hervey.md): Clarissa writes to her aunt Mrs. Hervey, expressing distress over not receiving a reply to her previous letter. She encloses a copy of that letter and pleads for her aunt's intercession in achieving a reconciliation with - [Letter 142: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-142-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with Lovelace's teasing behavior and doubting his sincerity. She advises Clarissa to either despise and hate Lovelace or commit to him fully by seeking protection from - [Letter 143: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-143-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, urging him to reconsider his schemes against Clarissa. He argues that her virtue is unparalleled and that the trials he plans are unfair given her isolation and his manipulative resources. Bel - [Letter 144: Mrs. Hervey, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-144-mrs-hervey-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Hervey writes to Clarissa, expressing her sorrow and disappointment over Clarissa's elopement with Lovelace. She reveals that Clarissa's family had been prepared to show leniency if Clarissa had stood her ground, bu - [Letter 145: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-145-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe after receiving a letter from her aunt Hervey, which reveals that her father had intended to kneel to her in reconciliation before her flight. She laments being forced into Lovelace's power, - [Letter 146: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-146-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe in deep despair, revealing that she has received a letter from her sister Arabella that includes a father's curse. She feels her heart is broken and believes the curse extends beyond this lif - [Letter 147: To Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-147-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa receives a harsh letter from her sister Arabella, who informs her that the family has disowned her, her father has cursed her, and she will not receive her clothes, books, money, or jewels. The family renounces - [Letter 148: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-148-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to comfort Clarissa after receiving a cruel letter from Arabella Harlowe containing a parental curse. She reassures Clarissa that God does not sanction such curses and urges her not to despair. Anna crit - [Letter 149: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-149-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe on the morning of her departure for London, expressing comfort from Anna's letter but deep distress after receiving a violent letter from her sister. She has accepted Lovelace's declarations - [Letter 150: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-150-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing joy that her prospects have improved after Lovelace's vile letter and treatment. She urges Clarissa to marry Lovelace immediately, arguing that she should not let punctilio stand i - [Letter 151: From Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-151-from-miss-howe.md): Miss Howe reports her investigation into the Harlowe family's intentions before Clarissa's departure, revealing that Clarissa's mother had planned to intervene and change the family's harsh measures, but Clarissa's elope - [Letter 152: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-152-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, describing how a violent letter from Clarissa's family, including a father's curse, has driven her into his arms. He recounts how he found her in fits and brought her back to life, leading her - [Letter 153: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-153-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his conflicted feelings as preparations for London proceed. He struggles with his own villainous impulses, observing Clarissa's dejection and vulnerability. He contemplates the possibilit - [Letter 154: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-154-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes triumphantly to Belford about having successfully brought Clarissa to Mrs. Sinclair's London brothel, disguised as a respectable lodging. He details his plans to manipulate Clarissa, including introducing - [Letter 155: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-155-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe from her new lodgings in London, describing her arrival and the uncomfortable situation created by Lovelace's deception. He has told the landlady, Mrs. Sinclair, and her household that they a - [Letter 156: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-156-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe acknowledges receipt of Clarissa's letters and describes a new arrangement with an honest higler named Simon Collins to facilitate daily correspondence. She congratulates Clarissa on her improved spirits and ar - [Letter 157: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-157-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe expressing her displeasure with Lovelace for his boldness and untruths. She describes her interactions with the widow and her nieces, noting her discomfort and suspicion that they are more fa - [Letter 158: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-158-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about Lovelace's return and his evasion of his promise to leave for Berkshire. He pressures her to marry immediately, proposing to find a house and set up an establishment. Clarissa, though u - [Letter 159: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-159-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his Sunday with Clarissa, including attending church together and his schemes to manipulate her. He describes his good behavior at church, his reflections on the sermon about David and Ba - [Letter 160: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-160-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe describing a relatively pleasant Sunday spent with Mr. Lovelace, including attending church and dining with the widow and her nieces. She praises Lovelace's good behavior and serious discours - [Letter 161: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-161-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa describes a painful evening spent in the company of Mr. Lovelace's libertine friends—Belton, Mowbray, Tourville, and Belford—along with Mrs. Sinclair and Miss Partington. She provides detailed character sketches - [Letter 162: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-162-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about an unsettling incident where Mrs. Sinclair pressures her to share a bed with Miss Partington, a request Clarissa refuses due to suspicions about the household and its inhabitants. She r - [Letter 163: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-163-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe with deep regret, informing her that she can no longer correspond due to a direct prohibition from Mrs. Howe. She encloses Mrs. Howe's letter, which forbids further writing without permission - [Letter 164: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-164-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe expresses astonishment at her mother's prohibition of their correspondence but resolves to continue writing to Clarissa in secret. She offers to flee to London to aid Clarissa if necessary, discusses the silenc - [Letter 165: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-165-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, pleading with her not to follow her example by defying her mother and eloping. She argues that Anna's situation is different and that such a rash act would bring maternal malediction and pub - [Letter 166: Mr. Hickman, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-166-mr-hickman-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mr. Hickman writes to Clarissa at Miss Howe's command, expressing her concern over the distress caused by her last letter and assuring Clarissa that she will not pursue the matter that alarmed her. He offers his own fait - [Letter 167: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-167-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, recounting Clarissa's disapproval of his companions and the house, particularly her refusal to share a bed with Miss Partington. He interprets her caution as dishonourable fears of him and vow - [Letter 168: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-168-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Mrs. Howe to Clarissa, which causes Clarissa great distress. He suspects it forbids further correspondence with Miss Howe. Lovelace expresses mixed feelings—some sympathy fo - [Letter 169: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-169-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace expressing the unanimous admiration of their circle for Clarissa's intellect and beauty. He pleads with Lovelace to spare her from his schemes, arguing that her virtue and excellence deserve pr - [Letter 170: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-170-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace defends his predatory designs on Clarissa to Belford, using extended metaphors of bird-catching and hunting to argue that resistance can be overcome and that women, like birds, eventually adapt to captivity. He - [Letter 171: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-171-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace defends his plotting and intentions to Belford, arguing that Clarissa's virtue and rank make her a worthy conquest. He fantasizes about subduing her and claims he can marry her at will, justifying his schemes as - [Letter 172: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-172-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, pleading with him to spare Clarissa from his malicious designs. He condemns Lovelace's cruelty and warns him of the moral consequences, while also revealing that his uncle is dying and he must - [Letter 173: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-173-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her discontent with Lovelace's vanity and pride, and detailing her grim outlook. She mentions receiving her clothes but not her money or books, only a Drexelius on Eternity, Pract - [Letter 174: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-174-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her deep distress and the indignities she suffers under Lovelace's protection. She reveals that Lovelace now pressures her to go out in public with him but avoids any mention of m - [Letter 175: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-175-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his frustrations with Clarissa's resistance and his schemes to control her. He recounts an incident where he attempted to steal a letter from her, leading to a confrontation. He also plot - [Letter 176: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-176-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about her deteriorating relationship with Lovelace after he nearly intercepted one of Anna's letters. She describes his aggressive behavior and her growing realization that she is too much in - [Letter 177: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-177-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing her determination to continue their correspondence despite her mother's objections. She strongly advises Clarissa to leave Lovelace, revealing she has learned from a new informant - [Letter 178: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-178-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing gratitude for her friendship and discussing her strained relationship with Lovelace. She describes a confrontation with Lovelace when she attempts to go to church alone, and her r - [Letter 179: Miss Howe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-179-miss-howe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Anna Howe writes to Mrs. Norton, urging her to secretly inform Mrs. Harlowe that Clarissa desires reconciliation with her family, prefers a single life, and may be forced to marry Lovelace if no hope is given. Anna revea - [Letter 180: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-180-mrs-norton-to-miss-howe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Miss Howe expressing her heartbreak over the situation in the Harlowe family, noting that no application in Clarissa's favor can succeed. She mentions a confidential letter from Mrs. Harlowe and ple - [Letter 181: Miss Howe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-181-miss-howe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Anna Howe writes to Mrs. Norton defending Clarissa's honor and condemning the Harlowe family's tyranny. She asserts that Clarissa is blameless and that her elopement with Lovelace was driven by her family's harsh treatme - [Letter 182: Mrs. Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-182-mrs-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Mrs. Harlowe writes privately to Mrs. Norton, pouring out her grief over Clarissa's elopement. She recalls Clarissa's former virtues and the pride the family took in her, but insists that her premeditated fault is unforg - [Letter 183: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-183-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa with mixed feelings about Lovelace, acknowledging his past wickedness but noting recent good behavior and urging Clarissa to consider marrying him. She advises Clarissa to assert her independ - [Letter 184: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-184-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her despair at being forced to consider marriage to Lovelace after her family's complete rejection. She struggles with the indignity of having to humble herself before him, feelin - [Letter 185: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-185-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a tense morning conversation with Lovelace, in which they debate pride, merit, and the nature of their relationship. She defends her decision to seek reconciliation with her family and refuses to be rus - [Letter 186: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-186-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa receives Lovelace's formal marriage proposals, which include generous financial settlements and jointure terms, but she is dissatisfied with the cold and conditional conclusion that implies the next move is enti - [Letter 187: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-187-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts a tense morning meeting with Lovelace, who is disappointed by her lack of enthusiasm for his marriage proposals. She insists on consulting Miss Howe before discussing terms, and her poignant reflection - [Letter 188: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-188-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing her impatience and anger at Lovelace's proposals, which she finds lacking in warmth and earnestness. She criticizes Lovelace's character and suggests that Clarissa should either ma - [Letter 189: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-189-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford implores Lovelace to reconsider his intentions toward Clarissa, urging him to marry her honorably rather than ruin her. He appeals to Lovelace's family's wishes, Clarissa's virtue, and the moral consequences of h - [Letter 190: Lord M. to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-190-lord-m-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lord M. writes to John Belford, urging him to intervene with his nephew Lovelace to ensure he marries Clarissa Harlowe. He expresses concern over Lovelace's delays, fearing he may have bad designs, and emphasizes the imp - [Letter 191: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-191-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace defends his scheme to test Clarissa's virtue, dismissing Belford's moralizing and asserting his intention to overcome her resistance. He discusses his plan to use his family's influence to secure Clarissa's trus - [Letter 192: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-192-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford refuses to engage with Lovelace's depraved letter and instead recounts the story of their mutual friend Belton, who is dying and has been betrayed by his kept mistress Thomasine. Belford uses Belton's case to ref - [Letter 193: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-193-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's letter, expressing pleasure at Belford's apparent approval of his pursuit of Clarissa. He reflects on the risks of keeping lowbred women, contrasting them with Clarissa's high station, and - [Letter 194: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-194-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, boasting of the current happy situation at Mrs. Sinclair's. He describes how Clarissa has been manipulated into a false sense of security through an overheard conversation about Mrs. Fretchvil - [Letter 195: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-195-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, describing a more hopeful turn in her spirits after overhearing a conversation between Lovelace, Mrs. Sinclair, and Miss Martin. She reflects on the conversation's positive implications, inc - [Letter 196: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-196-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's delay in answering Lovelace's proposals, offering a scheme for Clarissa to find refuge with Mrs. Townsend, a contraband trader in Deptford, should she need to escape Lovelace. She also re - [Letter 197: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-197-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa about her mother's courtship by Antony Harlowe, enclosing the original letter from Antony and Mrs. Howe's reply. Anna provides a satirical dialogue between herself and her mother regarding th - [Letter 198: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-198-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, enraged after secretly obtaining extracts of Miss Howe's letters to Clarissa, vows revenge against both women. He describes how Dorcas copied the letters, revealing Miss Howe's harsh criticisms and her encourag - [Letter 199: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-199-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, having intercepted a letter from Anna Howe to Clarissa, is enraged by Miss Howe's contemptuous remarks about his character and intentions. He transcribes parts of the letter that reveal a plan for Clarissa to e - [Letter 200: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-200-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about attending a play with Lovelace and Miss Horton, noting Lovelace's emotional response to the tragedy but still deeming him hard-hearted. She describes her efforts to maintain independenc - [Letter 201: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-201-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a heated confrontation with Clarissa, who rebukes him for his ill humor and lack of merit. He attempts to justify his behavior, but she remains resolute, declaring her soul above him. After she retreats - [Letter 202: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-202-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, wrestling with his conflicting desires for Clarissa. He admires her virtue and purity, which often subdues his malicious intentions, yet he feels goaded by his companions and his own pride to - [Letter 203: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-203-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about the collapse of the Mrs. Fretchville house scheme, as Mennell refuses to continue the deception. He receives a letter from his cousin Charlotte Montague, which he uses to manipulate Clari - [Letter 204: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-204-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford describing a morning interview with Clarissa, buoyed by a favorable letter from his cousin Miss Montague. He notes that Clarissa's reserves are not entirely gone, but he attributes this to femi - [Letter 205: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-205-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a foolish letter from his uncle, Lord M., which he shows to Clarissa. She refuses a bill enclosed in it and returns the letter without Lovelace's intended reward. Lovelace reflects on mod - [Letter 206: Lord M. to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-206-lord-m-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Lord M. writes to Lovelace expressing his hope that Lovelace will soon marry Clarissa and reform his rakish ways. He offers generous settlements, including a choice of estates and a thousand pounds a year, and advises Lo - [Letter 207: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-207-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, boasting of his progress with Clarissa as she becomes more compliant. He describes presenting her with marriage proposals, including settlements and a private ceremony at his Lord's chapel, th - [Letter 208: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-208-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford detailing a new scheme to abduct and assault Mrs. Howe, Miss Howe, and Mr. Hickman by luring them onto a ship under false pretenses, with plans to dispose of Hickman and ravish the women. He fa - [Letter 209: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-209-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his multiple plots concerning Clarissa, including a scheme to feign illness to test her compassion and love. He recounts a past seduction of a French marquise and dismisses Sally Martin's - [Letter 210: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-210-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a pleasant airing with Clarissa, attended by the two nymphs (Sally and Polly). He describes their conversation, his attempts to gain access to her correspondence with Miss Howe, and his p - [Letter 211: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-211-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace feigns illness by taking ipecacuanha to manipulate Clarissa's sympathy and confirm her love for him. He orchestrates a scene where Dorcas reveals his 'dangerous' condition, prompting Clarissa to visit and show c - [Letter 212: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-212-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe about Mr. Lovelace's sudden illness, a vomiting of blood, which deeply affects her despite their recent contentions. She reflects on her own feelings, confessing that she may have loved him m - [Letter 213: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-213-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace returns from an airing to find Clarissa alarmed by a suspicious inquiry from a servant in blue livery trimmed with yellow. The servant returns, claiming to be from Captain Tomlinson, a friend of Mr. John Harlowe - [Letter 214: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-214-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a visit from Captain Tomlinson, who claims to be sent by Mr. John Harlowe to negotiate a reconciliation if Clarissa and Lovelace are married. Lovelace manipulates the situation, hoping to trick Clarissa - [Letter 215: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-215-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his conference with Clarissa following Captain Tomlinson's visit. He describes how Clarissa refuses to pretend they are married to please her uncle, insisting on truth and honesty. Lovela - [Letter 216: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-216-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reports to Belford on his successful meeting with Captain Tomlinson, whom he has deceived into believing that he and Clarissa are as good as married. Lovelace confesses the truth to Tomlinson—that they are not y - [Letter 217: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-217-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reveals to Belford that 'Captain Tomlinson' is actually a forger named Patrick McDonald, hired to deceive Clarissa into believing her uncle Harlowe seeks reconciliation. He outlines his scheme to intercept any l - [Letter 218: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-218-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Lord M. consenting to his marriage and offering financial support, which he hides from Clarissa. He describes a pleasant carriage ride with her where they discuss their futu - [Letter 219: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-219-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his ongoing manipulation of Clarissa, describing his attempts to break down her reserve and his frustration with her insistence on 'marriage-purity.' He recounts a dispute where Clarissa - [Letter 220: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-220-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford of his frustration with Clarissa's unyielding modesty, despite his elaborate schemes including a false license and settlements. He describes an attempted seduction where he kisses her breast, c - [Letter 221: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-221-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Captain Tomlinson, which reports that Mr. John Harlowe is surprised and grieved that Lovelace and Clarissa are not yet married. Mr. John Harlowe proposes that they marry pri - [Letter 222: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-222-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, pleading with him to spare Clarissa from further harm. He argues that Lovelace's actions will lead to tragedy, possibly Clarissa's suicide or death from grief, and warns against handing her ov - [Letter 223: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-223-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace defends his stratagems to Belford, arguing that his contrivances are simple and natural, and that Clarissa's virtue and resistance only stimulate him. He outlines a hypothetical future where he seduces her witho - [Letter 224: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-224-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford on Wednesday night, eleven o'clock, describing his internal turmoil and the imminent execution of his plot against Clarissa. He vacillates between resolve and cowardice, reflecting on his plans - [Letter 225: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-225-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a false fire alarm at Mrs. Sinclair's brothel, orchestrated to frighten Clarissa out of her room. He describes her desperate pleas for honor and mercy as she kneels before him, and his own internal conf - [Letter 226: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-226-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford the morning after the fire scene, reflecting on Clarissa's extreme distress and refusal to see him. He attempts to justify his actions as a 'romping bout' and expresses impatience at her contin - [Letter 227: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-227-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a series of billets exchanged with Clarissa after the fire scene. He attempts to reconcile with her, insisting on seeing her to discuss the license and other matters, but she refuses, exp - [Letter 228: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-228-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, in a frenzy of rage and despair, writes to Belford that Clarissa has escaped from the brothel. He curses her 'art' and 'hypocrisy,' recounts his frantic search, and learns from Mrs. Sinclair how Clarissa feigne - [Letter 229: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-229-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace intercepts a letter from Anna Howe to Clarissa, in which Anna warns Clarissa that she is in a vile house and that Lovelace is a villain. Lovelace reads the letter with rage, considers revenge against Anna Howe, - [Letter 230: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-230-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe in a state of terror and despair after narrowly escaping Lovelace's attempt to rape her during a staged fire at the brothel. She recounts her flight to Hampstead, her resolve to avoid Lovelac - [Letter 231: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-231-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace exults in discovering Clarissa's location at Hampstead after her escape. He receives a report from his servant Will, who has tracked her to Mrs. Moore's lodgings. Lovelace intercepts Clarissa's letters, includin - [Letter 232: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-232-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts his pursuit of Clarissa to Hampstead, where he has arrived disguised as a gouty gentleman. He details how his servant Will gathered information from the locals, spinning a false tale that Clarissa is hi - [Letter 233: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-233-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace shares a letter from the false Captain Tomlinson, detailing Mr. John Harlowe's desire for reconciliation with Clarissa and his impatience for the marriage, while warning of James Harlowe's opposition. Lovelace t - [Letter 234: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-234-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reflects on his strategy to re-engage Clarissa after leaving letters with her. He observes her innocent trust and lack of worldly experience, which he plans to exploit. Despite his admiration for her, his desire - [Letter 235: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-235-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a dialogue between Clarissa and the women of the house (Mrs. Moore and Miss Rawlins), where Clarissa refuses to acknowledge him as her husband and condemns his deceitful behavior. He attempts to reconci - [Letter 236: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-236-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace dines with Mrs. Moore, Miss Rawlins, and the newly arrived widow Mrs. Bevis. He manipulates the conversation to discredit Miss Howe, suggesting she is jealous and in love with him, while also praising Clarissa. - [Letter 237: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-237-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace entertains Captain Tomlinson and the women at Mrs. Moore's, weaving a web of deception about his marriage to Clarissa. He hints at non-consummation, blames Miss Howe for Clarissa's behavior, and manipulates the - [Letter 238: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-238-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace recounts his scheme to intercept Clarissa's correspondence and manipulate her through the fabricated Captain Tomlinson. He intercepts a letter from Anna Howe, learning of her plan to send another important lette - [Letter 239: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-239-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace recounts his failed attempt to lodge in the same house as Clarissa, being forced to accept nearby lodgings. He intercepts a letter from Anna Howe to Clarissa, which he reads and then re-seals, noting its content - [Letter 240: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-240-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace intercepts a letter from Clarissa to Anna Howe and forges a reply to prevent Miss Howe from learning of Clarissa's distress. He boasts of his deception and hints at further designs, possibly including Anna Howe - [Letter 241: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-241-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reports his return from Mrs. Moore's, where he was denied access to Clarissa. He reviews his current situation and precautions, including securing all rooms at Mrs. Moore's, cultivating allies like Mrs. Bevis an - [Letter 242: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-242-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from Mrs. Moore's, frustrated by the delay of Captain Tomlinson's arrival. He learns from Mrs. Bevis that Clarissa considered leaving but was dissuaded by Miss Rawlins and Mrs. Moore. Tomlinson - [Letter 243: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-243-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a tense meeting at Hampstead with Clarissa, Captain Tomlinson, and the ladies of the house. Clarissa confronts Lovelace about his disguises and insults, declaring her resolve to break with him despite t - [Letter 244: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-244-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace continues his correspondence, detailing a tense meeting with Clarissa and the disguised Captain Tomlinson. Clarissa expresses suspicion of Lovelace's contrivances and the rapid sequence of events, while Lovelace - [Letter 245: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-245-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts his manipulative efforts to pressure Clarissa into marriage, including a staged debate with the disguised Captain Tomlinson and a feigned display of remorse. He devises a false expedient to satisfy her - [Letter 246: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-246-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of turmoil, debating whether to marry Clarissa or pursue his original scheme. He imagines a violent internal struggle with his conscience, personified as a thief who stole his pen, a - [Letter 247: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-247-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford early Sunday morning, first commenting on Belford's recent attendance on his dying uncle, then turning to his own plans to persuade Clarissa to walk out with him on the Heath. He reflects on th - [Letter 248: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-248-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a two-hour garden meeting with Clarissa at Mrs. Moore's, where she remains resolute in her refusal to reconcile, citing his vile conduct and the house's corruption. She plans to live independently on he - [Letter 249: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-249-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford while Clarissa is at church with Mrs. Moore and Mrs. Bevis, having refused his company. He debates internally whether his hesitation to harm her stems from a young conscience, love, or Belford' - [Letter 250: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-250-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation, recounting a narrow escape and his successful interception of a letter from Miss Howe to Clarissa, which he considers a critical gain in his manipulative campaign. - [Letter 251: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-251-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace intercepts a letter from Miss Howe to Clarissa by orchestrating a deception with Mrs. Bevis and the maid Margaret. He instructs Mrs. Bevis to impersonate Clarissa, claiming she is ill and dropsical, to receive t - [Letter 252: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-252-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, enclosing a letter from Miss Howe to Clarissa that reveals Miss Howe's fierce indignation against Lovelace and her plans to help Clarissa escape. Lovelace reacts with vengeful fury, mocking Mi - [Letter 253: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-253-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from Hampstead, detailing his latest conference with Clarissa. He feigns politeness and presses his suit, but she remains resolute, preferring a single life and rejecting his proposals. Lovelac - [Letter 254: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-254-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, enclosing a marriage license he has obtained for himself and Clarissa. He mocks the license's formal language and heraldic symbols, then launches into a satirical proposal for annual marriages - [Letter 255: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-255-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace details his plot to deceive Clarissa by having two women impersonate Lady Betty Lawrance and Miss Charlotte Montague, using a hired coach and jewels to stage a rescue that will lead her back to Mrs. Sinclair's b - [Letter 256: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-256-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace exults in having lured Clarissa back to Mrs. Sinclair's lodgings under the pretense of a reconciliation with Lady Betty and Miss Montague. He describes her reluctance and fear, his own wavering pity, and the ins - [Letter 257: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-257-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford that the affair is over, Clarissa lives, and he signs off as his humble servant. The full account of this dark event is later given by Clarissa to Miss Howe in letters dated July 6. - [Letter 258: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-258-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace in horror and condemnation after learning of the rape of Clarissa. He urges Lovelace to make amends by marrying her, offering to give him his inheritance if he does so. Belford reflects on his - [Letter 259: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-259-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace defends his actions to Belford, rationalizing his rape of Clarissa by arguing that her virtue was an experiment and that many women would have yielded. He admits she is stupified and insensible, yet he still hop - [Letter 260: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-260-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, confessing that he has used a drug (proposed by Mrs. Sinclair) to render Clarissa insensible, in order to have his way with her. He describes her reaction upon waking, her holding up the licen - [Letter 261: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-261-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford detailing his plan to invite Mrs. Moore, Miss Rawlins, and Mrs. Bevis to visit, intending to seduce them with the help of his libertine friends. He describes each woman's character and his mani - [Letter 262: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-262-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reports that Clarissa attempted to escape while he was out, but was intercepted by Mrs. Sinclair. He anticipates a confrontation with her, confident that his boldness will overpower her modesty now that she has - [Letter 263: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-263-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford describing a confrontation with Clarissa, who accuses him of rape and betrayal with dignified composure. She demands her liberty and questions his schemes, while Lovelace struggles with guilt a - [Letter 264: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-264-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes in the early morning, tormented by remorse after Clarissa's failed escape attempt. He describes watching her sleep, her attempt to flee the brothel, and his interception of her. He reflects on her invinci - [Letter 265: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-265-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace receives news that Lord M. is gravely ill, prompting him to consider the advantages of inheriting his estate and title. He prepares for a confrontation with Clarissa, who has finally agreed to see him after repe - [Letter 266: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-266-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation after a heated confrontation with Clarissa. She vehemently rejects his proposals of marriage, accuses him of deceit, and demands to know the truth about the women he pre - [Letter 267: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-267-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace reflects on the difficulty of his wicked schemes and recounts a tense confrontation with Clarissa, who insists on leaving the brothel. She rebukes him for his dishonor, and after a feigned calm, attempts to esca - [Letter 268: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-268-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, vacillating between marriage and cohabitation with Clarissa. He rationalizes that Clarissa's will remains unviolated and that her distress is excessive, hoping she will eventually consent to m - [Letter 269: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-269-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, justifying his resumption of manipulative schemes against Clarissa after discovering she has secretly promised to provide for Dorcas in exchange for help escaping what she calls an 'illegal co - [Letter 270: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-270-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about his plot to manipulate Clarissa through her maid Dorcas, whom Clarissa has come to trust. He describes how Dorcas feigns sympathy and gains Clarissa's confidence by pretending to be a fel - [Letter 271: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-271-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a detailed dream in which he imagines a scheme to trick Clarissa into escaping with the help of a supposed dowager (mother H.), only to be betrayed into his hands. He reflects on the pleasures of plotti - [Letter 272: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-272-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about Clarissa's feigned illness and his plans to deceive her. He recounts a dream that he believes foretells her escape attempt, and shares a forged letter from Captain Tomlinson that falsely - [Letter 273: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-273-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts his failed plot to trick Clarissa into leaving the brothel under the pretense of being rescued by a dowager lady. He had arranged for Dorcas to persuade Clarissa to escape in a waiting chariot, but Clar - [Letter 274: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-274-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace confronts Clarissa after her feigned illness and attempted escape. He tries to persuade her to marry him, showing her a letter from Captain Tomlinson, but she refuses, accusing him of deceit and expressing her d - [Letter 275: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-275-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing concern over Lord M.'s dangerous illness from gout and his own dilemma regarding Clarissa, who has scorned his advances. He encloses a letter from Anna Howe, who is distressed and c - [Letter 276: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-276-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation after a tense early-morning meeting with Clarissa. He describes her refusal to marry him, her desire to leave the house, and her accusation that he is merely an 'impleme - [Letter 277: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-277-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts a tense confrontation with Clarissa, who refuses to promise to stay at the brothel while he visits Lord M. She insists on going to Mrs. Moore's at Hampstead and rejects his attempts to extract a promise - [Letter 278: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-278-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace receives a summons from his dying uncle Lord M. and prepares to travel to Berkshire. He attempts to negotiate with Clarissa, proposing marriage and then a conditional release to Hampstead if she will promise to - [Letter 279: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-279-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, justifying his continued manipulation of Clarissa. He recounts the women's reasoning that Clarissa's tears and eloquence are no defense, and that she was insensible during her trial. He plots - [Letter 280: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-280-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, frustrated that Clarissa refuses to listen to his tender speeches and insists on returning to Hampstead. He renews his promise to let her go but presses her for a marriage commitment, which sh - [Letter 281: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-281-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a furious and disordered state after his scheme to provoke Clarissa backfires. He describes his failed attempt to use a planted bribe note to justify revoking his promise to let her go to Ha - [Letter 282: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-282-mr-lovelace-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Lovelace writes to Clarissa, apologizing for his behavior the previous night and explaining his low and artful contrivance involving Dorcas's dropped paper. He asks her to forgive him and to agree to marry him on Thursda - [Letter 283: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-283-mr-lovelace-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Lovelace writes to Clarissa, expressing deep mortification at her silence and proposing that they meet directly at a church on Thursday to be married, sparing both the pain of recrimination. - [Letter 284: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-284-mr-lovelace-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Lovelace writes to Clarissa, urgently requesting her to send the four words that would confirm their marriage. He warns that Thursday is a deadline, after which their private affairs will become public. He mentions Lord - [Letter 285: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-285-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation, enclosing copies of three unanswered letters to Clarissa. He fears she will not respond to his latest ultimatum, which would end her 'day of grace' (Thursday). He admit - [Letter 286: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-286-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford refuses to act as Lovelace's intermediary with Clarissa until he is convinced of Lovelace's sincere intention to marry her honorably. He criticizes Lovelace's past deceptions and insists on explicit assurances be - [Letter 287: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-287-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing frustration and defiance after Belford threatens to act as a guarantee for his promises to Clarissa. He insists he is in earnest about marrying her, but blames her for not accepting - [Letter 288: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-288-mr-lovelace-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Lovelace writes to Clarissa, expressing distress at her silence after three letters. He informs her that Captain Tomlinson will visit her instead of Belford, and that Tomlinson will convey news of her mother's possible s - [Letter 289: To Mr. Patrick McDonald](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-289-to-mr-patrick-mcdonald.md): Lovelace writes to his accomplice McDonald, instructing him on how to impersonate Captain Tomlinson and deceive Clarissa. He outlines a plan to manipulate her by hinting at her mother's secret engagement, while maintaini - [Letter 290: To Captain Tomlinson](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-290-to-captain-tomlinson.md): Lovelace writes to Captain Tomlinson, explaining a misunderstanding with Clarissa and requesting his help to persuade her to proceed with their planned marriage. He mentions Lord M.'s illness and desire to see Clarissa a - [Letter 291: To Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-291-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Patrick McDonald writes to Lovelace informing him that Clarissa has escaped from Mrs. Sinclair's brothel. He describes the chaos and consternation at the house, with the waiting-maid missing and the household in disarray - [Letter 292: Mr. Mowbray, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-292-mr-mowbray-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Mowbray writes to Lovelace with urgent news that Clarissa Harlowe has escaped. He describes the chaotic scene among the women, who are weeping and accusing each other, while Belford calmly documents the events. Mowbr - [Letter 293: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-293-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace detailing Clarissa's attempted escape from the brothel, her confinement, and her eventual successful flight. He reflects on the gravity of Lovelace's crimes and urges him to consider marriage a - [Letter 294: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-294-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, confessing his guilt over Clarissa's escape and his failure to seduce her, while also lamenting Lord M.'s unexpected recovery from gout, which dashes his hopes of inheriting the estate. He exp - [Letter 295: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-295-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes a distraught letter to Anna Howe after her escape, expressing her shattered peace and sense of lost self, while inquiring after Anna's health and providing a new address for correspondence. - [Letter 296: Mrs. Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-296-mrs-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing pity for her distress but condemning her disobedience to her parents. She forbids further correspondence with her daughter Nancy, blaming Clarissa's influence for Nancy's grief an - [Letter 297: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-297-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Howe, thanking her for her reproofs but expressing her deep distress. She explains that her story is dismal and that she seeks only to repent, not to extenuate her faults. She inquires after Miss - [Letter 298: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Hannah Burton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-298-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-hannah-burton.md): Clarissa writes to her former servant Hannah Burton, expressing her desire for Hannah to come and stay with her in her current distressed state. She recounts the strange events that have befallen her since Hannah was dis - [Letter 299: Hannah Burton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-299-hannah-burton.md): Hannah Burton responds to Clarissa, expressing her sorrow over Clarissa's misfortunes and her desire to help, but explaining that she is confined to her room at her mother's house due to a rheumatism that has left her he - [Letter 300: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-300-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Clarissa writes to her former nurse, Mrs. Norton, after a long silence, asking for news of her family and whether her father might lift his curse. She reveals that Lovelace has proved barbarous and ungrateful, that she h - [Letter 301: Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-301-mrs-norton.md): Mrs. Norton responds to Clarissa's distressing letter, expressing her deep sorrow and concern. She updates Clarissa on her family's continued grief and unforgiveness, reports that Hannah is ill, and offers her own modest - [Letter 302: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Lady Betty Lawrance](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-302-miss-cl-harlowe-to-lady-betty-lawrance.md): Clarissa writes to Lady Betty Lawrance, whom she does not know personally, to ask for verification of several details regarding Lady Betty's supposed involvement in a scheme with Lovelace. She inquires about a letter con - [Letter 303: Lady Betty Lawrance, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-303-lady-betty-lawrance-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Lady Betty Lawrance writes to Clarissa expressing concern over the apparent discord between her and Lovelace. She reveals that Lovelace has given conflicting accounts of their relationship, sometimes claiming they are ma - [Letter 304: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Hodges Enfield](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-304-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-hodges-enfield.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Hodges, a former servant, asking for information about Captain Tomlinson and his relationship with her uncle Harlowe. She describes Tomlinson's appearance and requests that Mrs. Hodges keep the in - [Letter 305: Mrs. Hodges](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-305-mrs-hodges.md): Mrs. Hodges responds to Clarissa's inquiry about Captain Tomlinson, confirming that her master knows no such man and that no such person has ever visited the house. She describes the master's sorrowful state and warns Cl - [Letter 306: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Lady Betty Lawrance](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-306-miss-cl-harlowe-to-lady-betty-lawrance.md): Clarissa writes to Lady Betty Lawrance, thanking her for her kind letter but firmly declining her offered mediation. She explains that she was initially drawn to Lovelace by the honor of being related to such virtuous la - [Letter 307: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-307-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing deep anguish and gratitude for her comforting letter. She reflects on her fall from grace, insists she was not complicit in Lovelace's schemes, and reveals she was drugged and r - [Letter 308: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-308-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton expresses horror at Lovelace's violence and urges Clarissa not to despair. She recounts a visit from Arabella Harlowe, who questioned her about correspondence with Clarissa and criticized Miss Howe's public a - [Letter 309: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-309-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing her distress over a new trouble: her only other friend, Miss Howe, is now displeased with her, accusing her of a flaw in her character. Clarissa laments the weight of multiple a - [Letter 310: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-310-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing shock and disappointment that Clarissa returned to Lovelace after escaping from Hampstead. Anna reveals that her mother intercepted a letter from Clarissa, leading to a confrontat - [Letter 311: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-311-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa responds to Miss Howe's harsh letter, expressing her distress at being reproached by her only remaining friend. She defends herself by explaining that she was tricked back to the brothel, that she never received - [Letter 312: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-312-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts the visit of two women impersonating Lady Betty Lawrance and Miss Montague, who, along with Lovelace and Captain Tomlinson, pressure her to forgive Lovelace's premeditated outrage. Despite her suspicion - [Letter 313: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-313-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa, still ill, continues her letter describing the visit of the pretended Lady Betty and Miss Montague. They flatter her, discuss staying at Mrs. Moore's, and propose a trip to town to fetch belongings. Lovelace fe - [Letter 314: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-314-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa recounts being tricked by Lovelace and two women pretending to be Lady Betty and her niece into visiting Mrs. Sinclair's brothel. She is drugged, her suspicions are dismissed, and she is left trapped as the impo - [Letter 315: Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-315-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Clarissa recounts her recovery from delirium, her attempts to escape, and her confrontations with Lovelace. She describes her successful escape and the difficulties of finding lodging. She reflects on the impostures of T - [Letter 316: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-316-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, revealing that a letter she previously sent was a forgery by Lovelace. She details how Lovelace manipulated events, including having a woman impersonate Clarissa at Hampstead, and expresses - [Letter 317: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-317-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, conveying her mother's opinion that Clarissa's misfortunes stem from her initial elopement and urging her to prosecute Lovelace for his crimes. Mrs. Howe insists that public justice is neces - [Letter 318: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-318-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa forgives Anna for her earlier harsh letter and thanks her for the opportunity to explain herself. She agrees to provide a full account of her sufferings, though she doubts Anna will see it until after her death. - [Letter 319: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-319-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, urging her not to succumb to dejection and to take comfort in her unsullied virtue. She assures Clarissa that her cousin Morden will soon arrive to see justice done. Anna criticizes Clarissa - [Letter 320: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-320-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing concern that her troubles may bring danger to Anna and Mr. Hickman. She describes her current lodgings with the Smiths, her cautious attendance at early morning prayers, and her a - [Letter 321: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-321-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, lamenting the loss of Clarissa and expressing his despair at not being able to find her. He describes his confinement with his ailing uncle Lord M., who enjoys hearing Lovelace's roguish stori - [Letter 322: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-322-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing his obsession with Clarissa and his inability to find any other woman comparable to her. He describes his impatience with his cousins and his brief visit to Colonel Ambrose's, where - [Letter 323: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-323-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a family intervention led by Lady Sarah Sadleir and Lady Betty Lawrance, who confront him with letters from Clarissa detailing his crimes. They urge him to do justice by marrying her, but - [Letter 324: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-324-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace recounts a family conference with Lord M., Lady Sarah, and Lady Betty, where they press him to marry Clarissa and make reparation. He defends himself with extenuating arguments, praises Clarissa's virtue, and re - [Letter 325: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-325-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace recounts to Belford his appearance before his family, where he defends his actions toward Clarissa, admits to restraining her, and ultimately pledges to marry her. His relatives, including Lord M., Lady Sarah, a - [Letter 326: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-326-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, reflecting on the possibility of marrying Clarissa. He muses on love, marriage as the 'grave of love,' and the social advantages a husband gains. He boasts of reconciling with his relations an - [Letter 327: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-327-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, reporting a visit from Miss Montague and her sister, who come on behalf of Lord M. and his sisters to propose that Clarissa place herself under Lady Betty's protection and marry Lovelace. An - [Letter 328: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-328-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa expressing impatience and concern over not receiving a reply to her previous letter. She urges Clarissa to accept Lady Betty's protection and marry Lovelace for the sake of her honor, family, - [Letter 329: Miss Howe, to Miss Charlotte Montague](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-329-miss-howe-to-miss-charlotte-montague.md): In a frantic letter, Anna Howe demands news of Clarissa, who has disappeared from her lodgings after going to morning prayers. Anna suspects Lovelace has spirited her away and appeals to Charlotte Montague for informatio - [Letter 330: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-330-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, in a panic, writes to Belford after learning that Mrs. Sinclair and Sally Martin have had Clarissa arrested for debt. He insists he had no part in the scheme and begs Belford to free her immediately, clear his - [Letter 331: Miss Charlotte Montague, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-331-miss-charlotte-montague-to-miss-howe-m-hall.md): Miss Charlotte Montague writes to Miss Howe to reassure her that Clarissa is safe after a distressing arrest caused by a misunderstanding of Lovelace's orders. She describes Lovelace as being half-distracted since Saturd - [Letter 332: Miss Montague, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-332-miss-montague-to-miss-howe.md): Miss Montague writes to Miss Howe detailing the family's shock and Lovelace's distress upon learning of Clarissa's restraint by the Sinclair household. She explains that Lovelace had left general instructions to find Cla - [Letter 333: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-333-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace detailing the horrid arrest of Clarissa by sheriff's officers, instigated by Lovelace's servant, and her subsequent imprisonment. He recounts her brave and sorrowful behavior, the vile conduct - [Letter 334: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-334-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford visits Clarissa at Rowland's squalid prison, describing the deplorable conditions and her pitiable state. He attempts to persuade her to leave, but she refuses any obligation to Lovelace's friend, offering her ri - [Letter 335: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-335-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes a furious and tormented letter to Belford, expressing extreme anguish and rage over Belford's abrupt and torturous communication. He compares his suffering to Clarissa's, curses Belford with violent fanta - [Letter 336: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-336-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace about his efforts to assist Clarissa after her arrest. He describes visiting her in a miserable lodging, bringing her letters, and arranging for her removal to Mrs. Smith's. Belford assures - [Letter 337: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-337-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes early in the morning after receiving a messenger from Lovelace. He mocks Lovelace's imagined torments and insists that Clarissa must be free from Lovelace's visits, threatening to end their correspondence - [Letter 338: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-338-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford updates Lovelace on Clarissa's declining health, describing her weak state, the care she receives from Mrs. Lovick and the apothecary Mr. Goddard, and her letter to Miss Howe explaining her arrest and release - [Letter 339: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-339-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford visits Clarissa, who is weak but dignified. He attempts to defend Lovelace's character and intentions, but Clarissa rebuffs him, expressing her horror at Lovelace's deceit and cruelty. She refuses any further con - [Letter 340: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-340-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford arranges for a physician, Dr. H., to visit Clarissa, who is in very poor health. She insists on paying the doctor's fee despite her poverty, displaying her pride and independence. The doctor advises that her - [Letter 341: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-341-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, defending his actions and criticizing Belford's decision to share his letter with Clarissa. He expresses his disdain for Hickman, discusses his plans to travel to France and Italy to forget Cl - [Letter 342: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-342-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe expresses shock and concern over Clarissa's recent public humiliation and poor health. She urges Clarissa not to despair and discusses the possibility of marriage to Lovelace, noting that his family supports th - [Letter 343: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-343-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing gratitude for her friendship but firmly refusing any further inquiries about Lovelace. She describes her improved circumstances—no longer imprisoned, her effects restored, and und - [Letter 344: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-344-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace about the deteriorating condition of their mutual friend Belton, who is physically ill and emotionally broken by his unfaithful mistress Thomasine. Belford reflects on the moral decay of their - [Letter 345: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-345-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace about Clarissa's suspicion that he advanced money for her clothes, leading her to refuse the sale. Mrs. Lovick sells some of Clarissa's lace to repay debts, including doctor's fees incurred - [Letter 346: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-346-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace recounts his interview with Mr. Hickman, who visits at Miss Howe's request to inquire about Lovelace's intentions toward Clarissa. Lovelace toys with Hickman, evading direct answers, and eventually reveals that - [Letter 347: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-347-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's letters, dismissing Belford's reformation and expressing disturbance at Clarissa's ill health, which he blames on the arrest. He rationalizes her selling her clothes as female perversity an - [Letter 348: Mr. Belford, to Mr. Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-348-mr-belford-to-mr-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford visits Clarissa, who is weak but resolute. She has written to her sister seeking revocation of her father's curse, expresses dutiful forgiveness toward her parents, and firmly rejects Lovelace, though she str - [Letter 349: Mr. Belford](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-349-mr-belford.md): Clarissa reveals her true identity to Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Lovick, declaring she was never married and is Clarissa Harlowe. She recounts her formerly happy life, her family's wealth and love, and her current state of humi - [Letter 350: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-350-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing frustration at Belford's hatred and defending his own actions. He reflects on Clarissa's refusal to marry him despite his willingness, criticizes her 'unforgiving forgiveness,' and - [Letter 351: Miss Howe, to Miss Arabella Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-351-miss-howe-to-miss-arabella-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Arabella Harlowe to inform her that Clarissa is dangerously ill at a glover's and perfume shop in Covent Garden. She notes that Clarissa is unaware of the letter and that harsh words from her father h - [Letter 352: Miss Arabella Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-352-miss-arabella-harlowe.md): Arabella Harlowe responds to Anna Howe's letter regarding Clarissa's illness, expressing the family's lack of sympathy and blaming Clarissa for her own misfortunes. She rebukes Anna for criticizing the Harlowe family's s - [Letter 353: Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-353-miss-howe.md): Anna Howe writes a scathing reply to Arabella Harlowe, defending her own intentions and condemning the Harlowe family's treatment of Clarissa. She warns that if Clarissa dies, she will speak her full mind. - [Letter 354: Miss Arabella Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-354-miss-arabella-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Arabella Harlowe writes a sharp reply to Anna Howe, defending the Harlowe family's actions and blaming Clarissa entirely for her own disgrace. She dismisses Anna's criticisms and implies that Anna's advice may have contr - [Letter 355: Miss Howe, to Miss Arabella Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-355-miss-howe-to-miss-arabella-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes a scathing letter to Arabella Harlowe, defending Clarissa's superior character and condemning Arabella's malice and envy. She credits Clarissa's advice for saving her from difficulties and criticizes the - [Letter 356: Mrs. Harlowe, to Mrs. Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-356-mrs-harlowe-to-mrs-howe.md): Mrs. Harlowe writes to Mrs. Howe, enclosing copies of letters between Miss Howe and Arabella, complaining of the freedoms Miss Howe has taken in criticizing the Harlowe family. She appeals to Mrs. Howe as a mother to und - [Letter 357: Mrs. Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-357-mrs-howe.md): Mrs. Howe writes to Mrs. Harlowe, expressing her displeasure with her daughter Anna's correspondence with Clarissa. She describes Anna as headstrong and romantic, and reveals that she has forbidden further letters and is - [Letter 358: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-358-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing concern over her health and urging her to reconsider marrying Lovelace despite her aversion. She reports that Mr. Hickman has met with Lovelace and believes he is sincere in his d - [Letter 359: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-359-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing her unwavering refusal to marry Lovelace despite the arguments and proposals from his family. She justifies her decision by citing his premeditated barbarity, her own pride, and t - [Letter 360: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-360-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, gently chiding her for speaking harshly to the Harlowe family on her behalf. She defends her parents' actions, acknowledges her own fault in eloping with Lovelace, and expresses a desire for - [Letter 361: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-361-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa after a long silence, explaining that she has been extremely ill and her son is dangerously ill. She reports that angry letters have passed between Arabella and Anna Howe, and that the Harl - [Letter 362: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-362-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing concern for her health and that of her son, and explaining her silence due to fresh troubles. She regrets Miss Howe's unsolicited letter to her family, fearing it will harm her - [Letter 363: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Arabella Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-363-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-arabella-harlowe.md): Clarissa, in precarious health, writes to her sister Arabella begging her to intercede with their father to revoke the part of his curse that concerns the afterlife. She acknowledges her punishment from Lovelace and expr - [Letter 364: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-364-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford rebukes Lovelace for blaming Clarissa's ill health on the arrest and her family's implacability, insisting the fault lies with Lovelace. He describes Clarissa's birthday fast and her noble disposition, contrasts - [Letter 365: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-365-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford reports on Clarissa's declining health, her sale of clothes to a benefactress, and her delivery of a sealed packet of Lovelace's letters. He pleads for Lovelace but is rebuffed. Mr. Hickman visits with a letter f - [Letter 366: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-366-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford reports visiting Clarissa with Mr. Hickman, who presses her to accept Miss Howe's offer of a farmhouse retreat. Clarissa remains determined not to marry Lovelace and refuses money. Mr. Goddard prescribes a regime - [Letter 367: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-367-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's letters, expressing deep concern over her health and urging her to consider reconciliation with Lovelace despite his past wrongs. She recounts a tense encounter with Lovelace at Colonel A - [Letter 368: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-368-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, thanking her for sending Mr. Hickman but chiding her for not giving a decisive negative to Lovelace's relations. She reaffirms her refusal to marry Lovelace, discusses her loss of reputation - [Letter 369: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-369-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, reiterating her firm refusal to marry Lovelace despite the entreaties of his noble relations. She insists her decision is based on principle, not passion, and offers to forgive Lovelace only - [Letter 370: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-370-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, oscillating between anger and gratitude for Belford's letters. He defends his treatment of Clarissa by comparing himself to Aeneas (who abandoned Dido) and Queen Elizabeth I (who executed Mary - [Letter 371: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-371-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing hope that Clarissa may be pregnant, which he believes would compel her to live and legitimate the child. He dismisses her desire for death as mere rhetoric, citing Job and Shakespea - [Letter 372: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-372-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's letters, fully supporting her resolution not to marry Lovelace. She urges Clarissa to recover her health and spirits, discusses the possibility of Clarissa living near her after marriage, - [Letter 373: Miss Howe, to the Two Misses Montague](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-373-miss-howe-to-the-two-misses-montague.md): Miss Howe writes to the Misses Montague, explaining that she has repeatedly urged Clarissa to forgive and reconcile with Lovelace, but Clarissa remains immovable in her refusal. She encloses Clarissa's letter and transcr - [Letter 374: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-374-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, reporting that her son is recovering and that Clarissa's letter to her sister has been received and answered, though the family remains divided and unwilling to believe Clarissa is truly i - [Letter 375: Mrs. Norton, to Mrs. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-375-mrs-norton-to-mrs-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Mrs. Harlowe, seeking permission to share a letter from Clarissa. She reports that Clarissa has refused offers of marriage and forgiveness from Lord M., his sisters, nieces, and Lovelace himself, pa - [Letter 376: Mrs. Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-376-mrs-harlowe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Mrs. Harlowe writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing the family's continued refusal to forgive Clarissa, fearing that leniency would encourage further rebellion. She admits her own maternal anguish but feels compelled to side - [Letter 377: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-377-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, congratulating her on her son's recovery and expressing concern about Mrs. Norton's plan to intercede with her family. She reveals she has received a severe letter from her sister Arabella - [Letter 378: Miss Ar. Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-378-miss-ar-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Arabella Harlowe responds to Clarissa's letter with a mixture of pity and reproach, informing her that their father has withdrawn his curse but will never forgive her, and that the family is deeply shamed by her elopemen - [Letter 379: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-379-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing pleasure at Anna's approval of her resolution never to marry Lovelace. She reflects on her escape from a miserable marriage, defends her family's harshness by imagining her mother - [Letter 380: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-380-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-harlowe.md): Clarissa writes to her sister Arabella, expressing that she does not repine at the severity of Arabella's letter because her own heart reproaches her more strongly, though she maintains she is not as culpable as believed - [Letter 381: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-381-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, explaining that she had offered to send Clarissa's letter to her mother but was forbidden by Clarissa. She reassures Clarissa that her mother is inclined toward reconciliation and hints at - [Letter 382: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-382-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton expressing pleasure at her recovery, but lamenting the rejection of her mother's offer to intercede. She clarifies that she seeks only a blessing to die with, not to live with, and fears he - [Letter 383: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-383-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing his chagrin and disappointment after a letter from Miss Howe to his cousins reveals Clarissa's final rejection of him. His family, including Lady Sarah, Lady Betty, Lord M., and his - [Letter 384: Miss Montague, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-384-miss-montague-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Charlotte Montague writes to Clarissa on behalf of the entire family, expressing deep remorse for the injuries she has suffered at the hands of Mr. Lovelace. She pleads with Clarissa to forgive him and accept the fa - [Letter 385: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-385-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, explaining his delay in coming to town due to his own and Belton's affairs. He reports that he visited Clarissa and found her visibly worsened, partly due to distressing letters from her famil - [Letter 386: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Montague](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-386-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-montague.md): Clarissa responds to Miss Montague's kind letter, expressing regret for the lost opportunity of a reputable alliance with the Lovelace family, but firmly rejecting any possibility of marrying Lovelace due to his premedit - [Letter 387: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-387-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford receives a letter from Clarissa requesting extracts from Lovelace's correspondence to clear her conduct. She specifies passages from the fire scene and subsequent days. Belford decides to comply, noting Lovelace' - [Letter 388: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-388-mr-belford-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mr. Belford writes to Clarissa, agreeing to share extracts from Lovelace's letters covering the period before and after her escape to Hampstead, as she wishes to see if she must address painful subjects to defend her cha - [Letter 389: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-389-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-john-belford-esq.md): Clarissa writes to John Belford, thanking him for his communications and acknowledging Lovelace's premeditated baseness. She declares she has weighed all possibilities and finds more satisfaction in the prospect of death - [Letter 390: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-390-mr-belford-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mr. Belford gratefully accepts Clarissa's offer to make him her executor, pledging his fidelity and promising to fulfill her instructions literally. He expresses hope that she will live many years and that his frequent a - [Letter 391: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-391-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace about delivering extracts of Lovelace's letters to Clarissa, softening the content to protect Lovelace. Clarissa is distressed by a harsh letter from her sister and has written on her knees to - [Letter 392: Miss Ar. Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-392-miss-ar-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Arabella Harlowe responds harshly to Clarissa's letter of July 29, refusing further correspondence and condemning her sister's actions. She expresses the family's disgrace and shame, stating that Clarissa's penitence is - [Letter 393: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Her Mother](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-393-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-her-mother.md): Clarissa writes a desperate, penitent letter to her mother, begging for her forgiveness and blessing. She insists her repentance is genuine, claims she never intended to elope with Lovelace, and pleads for a written pard - [Letter 394: Miss Montague, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-394-miss-montague-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Miss Montague, writing on behalf of Lord M., Lady Sarah Sadleir, Lady Betty Lawrance, and herself, responds to Clarissa's letter. They express their condemnation of Lovelace's behavior and their unwavering admiration for - [Letter 395: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-395-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, enraged by Clarissa's refusal as conveyed in her letter to his cousin Charlotte, vents his fury to Belford. He accuses Clarissa of being a true Harlowe, criticizes Belford's reformist talk and his plan to share - [Letter 396: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-396-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace angrily responds to Belford's delivery of his private letters to Clarissa, vowing to have her despite her resistance. He threatens to burn down the brothel if she rejects his next letter, and insists he will be - [Letter 397: Mr. Lovelace to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-397-mr-lovelace-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Lovelace writes a desperate letter to Clarissa, begging for her forgiveness and offering to marry her on her own terms. He acknowledges his baseness and her purity, expresses remorse, and pleads for a chance to atone thr - [Letter 398: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Lord M. and to the Ladies of His House](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-398-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-lord-m-and-to-the-ladies-of-his-house.md): Clarissa writes to Lord M. and the ladies of his house, declining their offered quarterly bounty and expressing gratitude for their generosity. She urges them to forgive their kinsman (Lovelace) for his offenses against - [Letter 399: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-399-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford updates Lovelace on Belton's illness and the eviction of his rapacious mistress, then reports on Clarissa's declining health, her distress from a cruel letter from her uncle Harlowe, and her recourse to Scripture - [Letter 400: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-400-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace, informing him of the generous offers made by Lord M. and the ladies of his family to Clarissa, and her grateful but declining response. He notes Clarissa's intention to answer Lovelace's l - [Letter 401: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-401-miss-cl-harlowe-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Clarissa writes to Lovelace under compulsion, stating that even if she lived many more years and there were no other man, she could never be his. She forgives him and wishes him well, expecting the promised relief from h - [Letter 402: Mr. John Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-402-mr-john-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Mr. John Harlowe writes to Clarissa on behalf of her mother, expressing the family's grief and anger over her elopement with Lovelace. He demands to know if she is pregnant and insists on true penitence before any reconc - [Letter 403: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to John Harlowe, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-403-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-john-harlowe-esq.md): Clarissa writes to her uncle John Harlowe, pleading for a last blessing to die in peace, but is rebuffed with harsh words from her sister and uncle. She expresses deep contrition and insists she does not seek to be recei - [Letter 404: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-404-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes a brief, hurried letter to Clarissa, expressing her distress over Clarissa's choice of Mr. Belford as executor, though she agrees that none of Clarissa's relations should be named. She mentions that Mr. - [Letter 405: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-405-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, enclosing a large packet of letters and papers for her perusal, but not all that she has received, as she finds her family's letters too severe. She defends her choice of executor, insisting - [Letter 406: Mr. Antony Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-406-mr-antony-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Mr. Antony Harlowe writes a harsh reply to Clarissa's letter, accusing her of feigning illness and penitence, demanding she answer a shameful question about her conduct with Lovelace, and quoting Ecclesiasticus to justif - [Letter 407: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Antony Harlowe, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-407-miss-cl-harlowe-to-antony-harlowe-esq.md): Clarissa writes a remorseful letter to her uncle Antony Harlowe, apologizing for her previous pert letter and defending her sincerity. She expresses sorrow for her fall but insists on her innocence except for the involun - [Letter 408: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-408-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, informing her that her family is now proposing she go to the plantations, influenced by misrepresentations from Mr. Brand. She advises Clarissa to consider accepting Mr. Lovelace's family' - [Letter 409: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-409-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing confusion over negative reports about her and mentioning a harsh letter from her uncle Antony. She reassures Mrs. Norton of her innocence since April 10, offers to share her pap - [Letter 410: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-410-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from Lord M.'s estate, describing his severe illness and low spirits. He recounts a visit from the parish priest and Lord M., during which he produces Clarissa's meditation and gains praise for - [Letter 411: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-411-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to the ailing Lovelace, expressing concern for his illness but also regret that he did not die before his crime against Clarissa. He reports that Clarissa, upon hearing of Lovelace's dangerous illness, - [Letter 412: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-412-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace expresses his determination not to lose Clarissa, praising her forgiving and generous nature. He requests updates on her health and activities, declaring his love and resolve to make her his own, despite her cur - [Letter 413: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-413-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, rejoicing in his apparent moral improvement and health. He recounts reading Lovelace's letter to Clarissa, who responds with pity and forgiveness, though she remains ill due to harsh letters f - [Letter 414: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-414-mr-belford-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mr. Belford writes to Clarissa to warn her that Mr. Lovelace intends to seek an interview with her, despite her illness. He urges her to consider receiving the visit, describing Lovelace as penitent and respectful. Belfo - [Letter 415: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-415-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's letter, expressing frustration that Clarissa forgives his sin and accepts his repentance but refuses to let him repair the damage. He defends his intentions to visit her with decency and re - [Letter 416: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-416-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace arrives in London, determined to see Clarissa despite her escape. He visits Smith's, where he is told she has gone into the country. Frustrated, he returns to his lodgings, curses the brothel crew for the arrest - [Letter 417: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-417-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford about a disturbing dream in which Clarissa forgives him, but is then taken up to heaven, leaving him only her robe. He then learns that Clarissa has returned to her lodgings very ill and rushes - [Letter 418: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-418-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace arrives at Mrs. Smith's house seeking Clarissa, but she has fled to avoid him. He searches the premises, speaks with Mrs. Lovick and Mrs. Smith, and learns of Clarissa's declining health and her fear of him. Mrs - [Letter 419: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-419-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, expressing indignation at Lovelace's breach of honor and cruel treatment of Clarissa. He describes the deathbed scene of their mutual friend Belton, who is tormented by guilt and despair over - [Letter 420: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-420-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace about his servant's delay in delivering Lovelace's letter, describing how he and Mowbray berated the servant. He urges Lovelace to abandon thoughts of seeing Clarissa and to instead join him in - [Letter 421: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-421-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in ecstasy after receiving a letter from Clarissa, who claims she is setting out for her father's house in hopes of reconciliation. He interprets her letter as a sign of forgiveness and plans t - [Letter 422: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-422-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's account of Belton's death, dismissing Belford's moralizing and defending Belton's honor in the duel with Metcalfe. He expresses his own attachment to life and worldly pleasures, while looki - [Letter 423: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-423-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, defending his style of governing servants and criticizing Belford's 'humanity' as mere constitutional phlegm. He theorizes that Clarissa's change in temper may be due to pregnancy, and he anti - [Letter 424: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-424-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford describes the agonizing death of their mutual friend Belton, who suffers intense physical pain and spiritual terror, unable to find peace or forgiveness. Belford reflects on the futility of earthly pursuits and r - [Letter 425: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-425-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's letter about Belton's death, expressing concern and a hint of his own potential reformation, while also revealing his continued obsession with Clarissa and his plans to visit Lord M.'s esta - [Letter 426: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-426-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace about attending the opening of Belton's will and visiting Clarissa, who is gravely ill. He describes her piety, her preparations for death, and her gratitude to her doctors and Belford. Cla - [Letter 427: The Rev. Dr. Lewen, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-427-the-rev-dr-lewen-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): The Rev. Dr. Lewen writes to Clarissa from his sickbed, urging her to prosecute Lovelace for his crimes. He argues that her religion, duty to family, honour, and charity to her sex demand public evidence against Lovelace - [Letter 428: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to the Rev. Dr. Lewen](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-428-miss-cl-harlowe-to-the-rev-dr-lewen.md): Clarissa responds to Dr. Lewen's letter, explaining why she did not pursue legal action against Lovelace. She argues that public shame, the risk of a pardon, and the danger of escalating family feuds would have made pros - [Letter 429: Miss Arab. Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-429-miss-arab-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Arabella Harlowe writes to Clarissa, responding to her letters to their uncles. She proposes two options: either Clarissa prosecutes Lovelace for his crimes, or she agrees to exile in Pennsylvania for several years. Arab - [Letter 430: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Miss Arab. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-430-miss-cl-harlowe-to-miss-arab-harlowe.md): Clarissa responds to her sister Arabella's harsh letter, refusing to meet with Mr. Ackland and the counselor on the proposed business, but agreeing to go to Pennsylvania if no other event intervenes within a month. She e - [Letter 431: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-431-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton returns Clarissa's letters and warns her of an upcoming harsh letter from her sister, Arabella, instigated by Mr. Brand's report of a man visiting Clarissa. She advises Clarissa to drop the acquaintance and n - [Letter 432: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-432-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton relays a private visit from Mrs. Hervey, who shares that Clarissa's family is internally conflicted and that her mother is forced to act against her will. Mrs. Hervey suggests that Clarissa's brother James ha - [Letter 433: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-433-miss-cl-harlowe-to-mrs-judith-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, reflecting on her aunt's conversation and the rigour she has suffered from her family. She acknowledges her mother and aunt's admission that they were forced to act against their inclinati - [Letter 434: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-434-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe responds to Clarissa's letters, expressing concern for her health and approving her choice of Mr. Belford as executor. She criticizes Clarissa's family for their harshness and shares her own romantic dynamics w - [Letter 435: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-435-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, gently reproving her for her 'sprightly airs' and teasing treatment of Mr. Hickman. She argues that a woman should treat her suitor with dignity and respect, not with whimsical penances that - [Letter 436: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-436-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, detailing Mr. Brand's report, her sister's proposals for her to go abroad or prosecute Lovelace, and the harsh letters from her uncle Antony and sister. She mentions Dr. Lewen's letter and h - [Letter 437: Mr. Wyerley, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-437-mr-wyerley-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mr. Wyerley renews his marriage proposal to Clarissa, praising her virtue and resolution in rejecting Lovelace, and offering his fortune and protection despite her current destitution and persecution. - [Letter 438: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Alex. Wyerley, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-438-miss-cl-harlowe-to-alex-wyerley-esq.md): Clarissa responds to Mr. Wyerley's letter of proposal, thanking him for his generosity but reiterating her preference for the single life. She reflects on the family pressures and fatal circumstances that led to her curr - [Letter 439: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-439-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford expressing confusion and suspicion regarding Clarissa's letter inviting him to a reconciliation. He questions whether the letter was a stratagem to get him out of town, noting reports that Clar - [Letter 440: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-440-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace about Belton's funeral and his efforts to provide for Belton's sister. He then recounts visiting Clarissa, who is gravely ill and near death. She reveals that a letter from her sister was cruel - [Letter 441: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-441-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford recounts a conversation between Clarissa and Dr. H. in which Clarissa calmly discusses her impending death, refuses to move to the country for air, and declines Dr. H.'s offer to contact her family. She expre - [Letter 442: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-442-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Colonel Morden visits Lord M. and Mr. Lovelace to discuss Clarissa's situation. Lovelace admits his unworthy behavior and expresses repentance, while Morden presses for justice and honorable treatment of Clarissa. Lord M - [Letter 443: Mr. Lovelace](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-443-mr-lovelace.md): Lovelace recounts his conversation with Colonel Morden, showing him letters and copies to present himself in a favorable light. He discusses his attempts at reconciliation with Clarissa, including letters from his family - [Letter 444: Mr. Brand, to John Harlowe, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-444-mr-brand-to-john-harlowe-esq.md): Mr. Brand reports to John Harlowe on his investigation into Clarissa's conduct in London. He describes his inquiries through a neighbor rather than her landlady, Mrs. Smith, whom he finds too favorably disposed. Brand re - [Letter 445: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-445-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, reflecting on the latter's boastful letter and the conversation with Colonel Morden. He condemns Lovelace's manipulative and violent behavior, and recounts his visit to Mrs. Smith's, where he - [Letter 446: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-446-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford visits Clarissa, who is calm and serene. He reads parts of Lovelace's letters to her, finding much of it unworthy of her refined mind. Clarissa explains her allegorical letter was meant to convey warning and hope - [Letter 447: Colonel Morden, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-447-colonel-morden-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Colonel Morden writes to Clarissa after a fortnight in England, explaining he has been busy trying to arrange matters in her favor. He reveals he met with Lovelace and Lord M., noting the entire family's desire for an al - [Letter 448: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Wm. Morden, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-448-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-wm-morden-esq.md): Clarissa writes to her cousin Colonel Morden, congratulating him on his return and expressing gratitude that he has not been swayed by the false reports against her. She defends her refusal to marry Lovelace, stating tha - [Letter 449: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-449-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds angrily to Belford's letters, accusing Clarissa of deceit in her final letter and interpreting her pious intentions as a trick. He mocks Belford's spiritual aspirations with a satirical comparison to a - [Letter 450: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-450-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford recounts his visit to Clarissa, who has received a welcome letter from her cousin Morden. She is in a petulant mood, reflecting on her family's harshness. Unexpectedly, a coffin she ordered is delivered early, sh - [Letter 451: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-451-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford describes Clarissa's serene and resolute preparation for her own death, including the design of her coffin with symbolic devices and her calm acceptance of mortality, contrasting her heroism with Lovelace's guilt - [Letter 452: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-452-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, expressing astonishment at his levity amidst Clarissa's suffering. He reports that Clarissa has suffered two severe fits and is near death, and that the doctor has advised against her going ab - [Letter 453: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-453-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, expressing his anguish over Clarissa's declining health and his desperate wish for her recovery. He reflects on his guilt, his admiration for her virtues, and his struggle to cope with remorse - [Letter 454: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-454-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, reporting that Clarissa is alive but gravely ill, serene and clear-minded, though unlikely to survive. She has completed and sealed her last will, and is writing to Miss Howe. Belford warns th - [Letter 455: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-455-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing deep concern for both her mother's sudden illness and Clarissa's declining health. She reports on a visit from Colonel Morden, who has met with Lovelace and is furious with both h - [Letter 456: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-456-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, recounting a conversation with Colonel Morden in which he praised Lovelace's supposed generosity. Anna vehemently defends Clarissa's innocence, arguing that Lovelace is the villain and Clari - [Letter 457: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-457-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace about Clarissa's declining health. She is so ill she had to pause a letter to Anna Howe, finishing it early the next morning. Mr. Goddard and the doctor are alarmed by the coffin she keeps - [Letter 458: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-458-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe.md): Clarissa, gravely ill, writes to Anna Howe responding to news of Mrs. Howe's illness and urging reconciliation with Mr. Hickman. She reflects on her own suffering, the meanness of Lovelace's penitence, and her fear of po - [Letter 459: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-459-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton reports on a family meeting at Harlowe-place, convened by Colonel Morden to plead for Clarissa. Despite Morden's efforts, the family remains divided, with James Jr. and Arabella hardening their stance, while - [Letter 460: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-460-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford describes Clarissa's serene state after receiving Communion, her reading of a letter from Mrs. Norton, and her preparations for death. She gives Belford her will and sealed letters, and discusses a letter from Co - [Letter 461: Dr. H. to James Harlowe, Senior, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-461-dr-h-to-james-harlowe-senior-esq.md): Dr. H. writes to James Harlowe Sr., urging him to send a family member with a blessing to Clarissa before she dies. He attests to her irreproachable conduct, patience, and resignation, and warns that she has little time - [Letter 462: Mr. Belford, to William Morden, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-462-mr-belford-to-william-morden-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Colonel Morden to inform him that Clarissa Harlowe is near death and urges him to come to London immediately if he wishes to see her alive. Belford explains that he writes without Clarissa's knowled - [Letter 463: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-463-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, in a state of extreme agitation and remorse, writes to Belford from Uxbridge, expressing his torment over Clarissa's impending death. He describes his restless rides toward London, his dread of receiving fatal - [Letter 464: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-464-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace about Clarissa's declining health, describing her progressive weakness and her moving discourse on the vanity and brevity of life. He reports that she has finished a letter to Mrs. Norton a - [Letter 465: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-465-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-mrs-norton.md): Clarissa writes to Mrs. Norton, expressing her resignation to death and her spiritual readiness. She reflects on her family's suffering, declines visits from loved ones to avoid worldly distractions, and describes her we - [Letter 466: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-466-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of extreme anguish, expressing his torment over Clarissa's suffering and his own guilt. He curses her family for their cruelty, struggles with his own violent impulses, and anxiously - [Letter 467: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-467-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford reports Clarissa's declining health and her steadfast refusal to see Lovelace, despite forgiving him. She expresses a wish for his reformation but insists on dying in peace, free from his presence. Belford urges - [Letter 468: Mr. Brand, to Mr. John Walton](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-468-mr-brand-to-mr-john-walton.md): Mr. Brand writes to Mr. Walton, expressing regret for having misjudged Clarissa Harlowe's character based on appearances. He has prepared an apologetic letter to Mr. John Harlowe to set matters right and hopes to visit C - [Letter 469: Mr. Brand, to John Harlowe, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-469-mr-brand-to-john-harlowe-esq.md): Mr. Brand writes to John Harlowe to retract his earlier negative reports about Clarissa, acknowledging that he was misled by others. He now praises Clarissa's penitence and virtue, and proposes himself as a peacemaker to - [Letter 470: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-470-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's news of Clarissa's slight improvement with a mixture of desperate hope, self-reproach, and remorse. He expresses his anguish over her forgiveness and her confession of having loved him, and - [Letter 471: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-471-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford reports to Lovelace on Clarissa's serene state despite her declining health. She expresses peace with her impending death, forgiveness, and a desire for her family to be comforted. Belford is deeply affected by h - [Letter 472: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-472-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes a frantic and contradictory letter to Belford, oscillating between hope and despair over Clarissa's health. He blames her 'female wilfulness' for her decline, expresses remorse, and demands reassuring new - [Letter 473: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-473-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford describes Clarissa's final hours, her inability to read Anna Howe's letter, and her dictated farewell reply. He contrasts her peaceful death with the tormented end of Belton, and notes Colonel Morden's arriva - [Letter 474: Mr. Belford](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-474-mr-belford.md): Colonel Morden arrives to visit the dying Clarissa. Belford and Morden discuss her dire condition and the blame shared by Lovelace and her family. Clarissa, weak and near death, agrees to see her cousin, though she is ba - [Letter 475: Mr. Belford](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-475-mr-belford.md): Mr. Belford reports on Clarissa's final hours. She is in a slumber, but upon waking shows signs of approaching death. She delivers a pious and comforting lecture to Belford and Colonel Morden, expressing her readiness to - [Letter 476: Mr. Belford](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-476-mr-belford.md): Mr. Belford continues his letter, describing Colonel Morden's grief and anger at Clarissa's condition and her family's implacability. Clarissa gives final orders about her body and entrusts a miniature of Miss Howe to be - [Letter 477: Mr. Belford, to Richard Mowbray, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-477-mr-belford-to-richard-mowbray-esq.md): Belford urgently summons Mowbray and Tourville to intercept Lovelace, who is in a frantic state, riding between Piccadilly and Kensington, awaiting news that may drive him to despair. Belford warns of the dire consequenc - [Letter 478: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-478-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace, in a state of extreme anguish, writes to Belford expressing his fury at Colonel Morden and his possessiveness over Clarissa. He insists she is his alone, despite her impending death, and grapples with the terro - [Letter 479: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-479-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford urgently advises Lovelace to flee to Paris or elsewhere, implying that the consequences of his actions are closing in. - [Letter 480: Mr. Mowbray, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-480-mr-mowbray-to-john-belford-esq.md): Mr. Mowbray writes to John Belford describing Lovelace's violent and distraught reaction upon receiving news of Clarissa's death. Mowbray recounts how Lovelace tore the letter, raged, and struck him, and how he and Tourv - [Letter 481: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-481-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford describes the death of Clarissa Harlowe, detailing her final moments, her forgiveness of Lovelace, and her peaceful, pious end. He reflects on her virtues and the sorrow of those present. - [Letter 482: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-482-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace informing him of Clarissa's death and her will, which forbids Lovelace from seeing her. He notes Lovelace's distressed state and mentions that three letters arrived too late for Clarissa, w - [Letter 483: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-483-mrs-norton-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa with joyful news that her family is now unanimously reconciled to her, thanks to letters from her physician, Colonel Morden, and Mr. Brand. She reports that Clarissa's father has authorized - [Letter 484: Miss Arab. Harlowe, to Miss Cl. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-484-miss-arab-harlowe-to-miss-cl-harlowe.md): Arabella Harlowe writes to her sister Clarissa, expressing the family's distress upon hearing of her severe illness. She conveys that despite Clarissa's past transgressions, the family still loves her and is willing to f - [Letter 485: To His Dear Niece, Miss Clarissa Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-485-to-his-dear-niece-miss-clarissa-harlowe.md): Uncle John Harlowe writes to Clarissa expressing the family's grief over her illness and their regret for their harsh treatment. He assures her of their love and desire for reconciliation, inviting her to visit or offeri - [Letter 486: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-486-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford describes the aftermath of Clarissa's death, including the viewing of her corpse, the opening of her sealed papers containing eleven letters, and the reading of her will. He and Colonel Morden arrange for the del - [Letter 487: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-487-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace describing the arrival of Mrs. Norton, who is overcome with grief upon learning of Clarissa's death. She views the corpse, bathes it with tears, and laments the loss. Belford informs her of - [Letter 488: To the Ever-Honoured Jas. Harlowe, Sen. Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-488-to-the-ever-honoured-jas-harlowe-sen-esq.md): Clarissa writes a final letter to her father, asking for forgiveness and blessing him for his past kindness. She expresses repentance for her errors, hopes for a happy end through divine grace, and suggests that her deat - [Letter 489: To the Ever-Honoured Mrs. Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-489-to-the-ever-honoured-mrs-harlowe.md): In her final letter, Clarissa writes to her mother with deep reverence and gratitude, seeking forgiveness for her past rashness. She expresses sincere penitence, acknowledges the distress she caused her family, and hopes - [Letter 490: To James Harlowe, Jun. Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-490-to-james-harlowe-jun-esq.md): In this solemn letter, Clarissa writes to her brother James, begging his forgiveness for the offense her elopement caused the family. She urges him to forgo revenge against Lovelace, warning that vengeance belongs to God - [Letter 491: To Miss Harlowe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-491-to-miss-harlowe.md): In her final letter to her sister Arabella, Clarissa writes from a state of spiritual transcendence, forgiving past slights and expressing hope for her own redemption through suffering. She acknowledges her error without - [Letter 492: To John and Antony Harlowe, Esqrs](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-492-to-john-and-antony-harlowe-esqrs.md): Clarissa writes a posthumous letter to her uncles, seeking to comfort them and beg forgiveness for her error. She reflects on her pride, her fall, and her purification through suffering, expressing hope for a happy meeti - [Letter 493: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-493-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, informing him that the infamous Mrs. Sinclair has fallen down a flight of stairs while intoxicated, breaking her leg and now lies in a burning fever. Sally Martin visits Belford to seek the la - [Letter 494: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-494-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace describing the aftermath of Clarissa's death. He recounts how the posthumous letters were delivered to the Harlowe family, Miss Howe, and Mrs. Norton, causing profound grief and chaos. The lett - [Letter 495: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-495-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Mr. Belford describes the final arrangements for Clarissa's funeral, including the cutting of her hair for memorial rings, the preparation of her corpse with flowers and herbs, and the departure of the hearse. Mrs. Norto - [Letter 496: Mr. Mowbray, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-496-mr-mowbray-to-john-belford-esq.md): Mr. Mowbray writes to John Belford about Lovelace's distraught state following Clarissa's death. Lovelace had intended to have her body opened and embalmed, but was prevented. Mowbray defends Lovelace's actions, blaming - [Letter 497: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-497-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): In a distraught and vengeful letter, Lovelace insists on having Clarissa's body opened and embalmed, claiming her heart and papers as his own. He declares himself her husband, rejects any interference from Belford or Mor - [Letter 498: Mr. Belford, to Richard Mowbray, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-498-mr-belford-to-richard-mowbray-esq.md): Belford responds to Mowbray, reporting that Lord M. is with the frenzied Lovelace and urging that Lovelace be persuaded to go abroad upon recovery. He notes Colonel Morden's suspicion that the case was more than seductio - [Letter 499: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-499-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace about the deathbed scene of the infamous Mrs. Sinclair, describing her violent frenzy, physical decay, and desperate pleas for recovery. He reflects on the contrast between Clarissa's virtue an - [Letter 500: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-500-colonel-morden-to-john-belford-esq.md): Colonel Morden describes the arrival of Clarissa's hearse at Harlowe Place and the profound grief and remorse of the Harlowe family. He recounts the mournful scene, the family's self-reproach, and their shared condemnati - [Letter 501: Colonel Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-501-colonel-morden.md): Colonel Morden reports on the Harlowe family's grief and preparations for Clarissa's funeral. He describes their conflicted feelings about John Belford being named executor of her will, their final viewing of her body, a - [Letter 502: Colonel Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-502-colonel-morden.md): Colonel Morden describes the visit of Miss Anna Howe to view Clarissa's corpse. Miss Howe's grief is overwhelming; she laments the loss of her friend, criticizes Clarissa's family for their hard-heartedness, and expresse - [Letter 503: Colonel Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-503-colonel-morden.md): Colonel Morden describes the arrival of Mrs. Norton and the profound grief of the Harlowe family as they attempt to view Clarissa's corpse but are overcome with remorse. The parents recriminate themselves for their harsh - [Letter 504: Colonel Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-504-colonel-morden.md): Colonel Morden describes the funeral of Clarissa Harlowe, attended by family and many mourners, with a eulogy by Mr. Melvill that highlights her virtues and tragic fate. The ceremony is marked by profound respect and sor - [Letter 505: Mr. Belford, to William Morden, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-505-mr-belford-to-william-morden-esq.md): Mr. Belford writes to Colonel Morden, describing his imagined participation in Clarissa's funeral procession and burial. He reflects on the solemnity of the event, the crowded vault, and the grief of the mourners. He the - [Letter 506: Mr. James Harlowe, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-506-mr-james-harlowe-to-john-belford-esq-harlowe-place.md): James Harlowe Jr. writes to John Belford requesting that he relinquish the executorship of Clarissa's will to the Harlowe family, arguing that Belford's short acquaintance with Clarissa and his connection to Lovelace mak - [Letter 507: Mr. Belford, to Mr. James Harlowe, Jun. Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-507-mr-belford-to-mr-james-harlowe-jun-esq.md): This chapter contains the reading of Clarissa Harlowe's last will and testament, in which she forgives Lovelace, bequeaths her real estate to her father, provides for Mrs. Norton, and establishes a charitable fund for th - [The Will](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/the-will.md): Clarissa Harlowe's last will and testament is read, in which she forgives Lovelace, bequeaths her estate to her father, requests that Mrs. Norton be allowed to live at the Dairy-house, and disposes of her remaining funds - [Letter 508: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-508-colonel-morden-to-john-belford-esq.md): Colonel Morden recounts the reading of Clarissa's will to the Harlowe family. The family is deeply affected by her generous and forgiving bequests, leading to self-accusations and mutual upbraidings. Morden observes the - [Letter 509: Mr. Belford, to the Right Hon. Lord M.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-509-mr-belford-to-the-right-hon-lord-m.md): Mr. Belford writes to Lord M. expressing concern that the affair between Mr. Lovelace and the late Miss Clarissa Harlowe may lead to further trouble, despite her dying wishes. He urges that Lovelace be sent abroad until - [Letter 510: Miss Montague, to John Belford, Esq. M. Hall](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-510-miss-montague-to-john-belford-esq-m-hall.md): Miss Montague writes to John Belford on behalf of Lord M., Lady Sarah, and Lady Betty, informing him that Lovelace was preparing for a foreign tour before his letter arrived, and they will hasten his departure. They expr - [Letter 511: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-511-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of profound despair and remorse following Clarissa's death. He reflects on his guilt, the loss of his senses, and the haunting impact of Clarissa's posthumous letter. He struggles wi - [Letter 512: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-512-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace demands back his previous letter, admitting he wrote it under a gloomy impulse and now regrets its miserable tone. He reflects on his mental breakdown, his recovery under Dr. Hale's harsh treatments, and his det - [Letter 513: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-513-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford announcing his plans to leave England and travel through Paris, German courts, Vienna, Venice, Florence, and Turin. He warns Belford about the difficulty of maintaining his reformation and peni - [Letter 514: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-514-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, expressing concern over his revoked letter and recounting the terrible deaths of Mrs. Sinclair and Tomlinson. He urges Lovelace to reform, shares his own plans for a virtuous life, and warns o - [Letter 515: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-515-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford, reflecting on the death of 'Captain Tomlinson' (McDonald) and his own moral culpability. He defends his actions by comparing himself to princes and conquerors, arguing that Clarissa's death wa - [Letter 516: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-516-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace responds to Belford's plans for reformation with a mixture of mockery and genuine reflection. He challenges Belford's claim to innocence in Clarissa's ruin, arguing that Belford knew his designs and did nothing - [Letter 517: Mr. Belford, to Colonel Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-517-mr-belford-to-colonel-morden.md): Belford writes to Colonel Morden, urging him not to seek revenge on Lovelace for Clarissa's wrongs. He argues that the Harlowe family shares blame, that Clarissa's virtue remained inviolate, and that Lovelace has already - [Letter 518: To Col. Morden](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-518-to-col-morden.md): Clarissa's posthumous letter to Colonel Morden, written in her final weakness, thanks him for his kindness and intercession, but earnestly begs him not to seek vengeance on her behalf. She argues that vengeance belongs t - [Letter 519: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-519-colonel-morden-to-john-belford-esq.md): Colonel Morden responds to Belford's letters, expressing his grief and anger over Lovelace's treatment of Clarissa. He struggles with his desire for vengeance against Clarissa's dying wishes for forgiveness, describing t - [Letter 520: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-520-colonel-morden-to-john-belford-esq.md): Colonel Morden reports to Belford on the execution of Clarissa's will, noting the distribution of her jewels to Dolly Hervey and the preparations for Mrs. Norton to take up her post. He offers a detailed character analys - [Letter 521: Mr. Belford, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-521-mr-belford-to-miss-howe.md): Mr. Belford sends Miss Howe copies of Clarissa's posthumous letters and a copy of Lovelace's remorseful letter, along with Colonel Morden's letters. He reports the deaths of Mrs. Sinclair and Captain Tomlinson, both of w - [Letter 522: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-522-miss-howe-to-john-belford-esq.md): Miss Howe writes to John Belford, expressing her deep obligation for his efforts and her grief over Clarissa's death. She comments on the fates of Lovelace's accomplices, supports Belford's attempt to dissuade Colonel Mo - [Letter 523: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-523-miss-howe-to-john-belford-esq.md): Miss Howe responds to John Belford's questioning regarding her delay in fulfilling Clarissa's will. She defends her reluctance to marry Mr. Hickman, citing her independent spirit and fear of losing autonomy. She also rem - [Letter 524: Mr. Belford, to Miss Howe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-524-mr-belford-to-miss-howe.md): Mr. Belford thanks Miss Howe for her hint regarding Clarissa's wishes for his reformation and expresses his earnest desire to reform. He acknowledges Miss Howe's frankness about her views on marriage and single life, pra - [Letter 525: Lord M. to John Belford, Esq. M. Hall](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-525-lord-m-to-john-belford-esq-m-hall.md): Lord M. writes to John Belford informing him that Lovelace is setting out for London, planning to see Belford and then embark for Dover. He expresses concern about keeping Colonel Morden and Lovelace apart to prevent vio - [Letter 526: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-526-mr-belford-to-lord-m.md): Belford writes to Lord M. detailing his final meetings with Lovelace and Colonel Morden. Lovelace is in high spirits, planning his departure for Italy, while Belford tries to keep him and Morden apart. Lovelace insists o - [Letter 527: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-527-mr-belford-to-lord-m.md): Belford writes to Lord M. describing his farewell to Lovelace, who departs for the continent in high spirits but with solemn promises of reform. Lovelace expresses enduring admiration for Clarissa, vows to study her post - [Letter 528: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-528-mr-belford-to-lord-m.md): Mr. Belford reports to Lord M. his conversation with Colonel Morden, who requests Belford to serve as his executor, citing Clarissa's example. Morden hints at his ongoing struggle with the desire for vengeance against Lo - [Letter 529: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-529-miss-howe-to-john-belford-esq.md): Miss Howe provides materials for a character sketch of Clarissa, praising her person, mind, and virtues, while criticizing her family's persecution and Lovelace's villainy. She reflects on Clarissa's humility, elocution, - [Letter 530: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-530-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes from Paris to Belford, reflecting on his guilt and the sting of Clarissa's generosity as seen in her will and posthumous letter. He quotes Horace and Dryden, then outlines his travel plans through Europea - [Letter 531: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-531-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, who is abroad, updating him on various matters: Belford's own reformation, the inconsolable state of the Harlowes, Miss Howe's impending marriage, Doleman's medical treatment, and the lack of - [Letter 532: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-532-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes from Paris to Belford, sharing a letter from Joseph Leman who is guilt-ridden over his role in Clarissa's tragedy and warns that Colonel Morden has set out to duel Lovelace. Lovelace expresses impatience - [Letter 533: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-533-mr-belford-to-robert-lovelace-esq.md): Belford writes to Lovelace, urging him to avoid a confrontation with Colonel Morden. He dismisses Joseph Leman's report of Morden's threats as unreliable, and explains that Morden is deeply affected but has not committed - [Letter 534: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-534-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes from Munich to Belford, defiantly refusing to avoid Colonel Morden and declaring he will not be intimidated by threats. He has already written to Morden in Florence, offering a choice between amicable res - [Letter 535: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-535-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from abroad, expressing his profound remorse and guilt over his treatment of Clarissa. He reflects on her virtue, his own villainy, and the torment of his memories. He anticipates a duel with C - [Letter 536: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-536-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq.md): Lovelace writes to Belford from Trent, detailing his final arrangements for a duel with Colonel Morden. The two men have agreed to meet the next morning in a lone valley, armed with single rapiers, and have arranged for - [Letter 537: Translation of a Letter from F. J. de la Tour](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-537-translation-of-a-letter-from-f-j-de-la-tour.md): F. J. de la Tour reports to John Belford the details of the fatal duel between Lovelace and Colonel Morden. Lovelace is mortally wounded, acknowledges his destiny, and dies after a night of suffering, calling out to Clar - [Conclusion](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/conclusion.md): The conclusion summarizes the fates of the surviving characters after Lovelace's death. The Harlowe family, especially the parents, are consumed by remorse after learning through Colonel Morden's extracts that Clarissa's - [Postscript Referred to in the Preface](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/postscript-referred-to-in-the-preface.md): The author defends the tragic ending of Clarissa against critics who desired a 'fortunate ending' or marriage between Lovelace and Clarissa. He argues that poetic justice is served through the exemplary punishments of Lo - [Endnotes](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/endnotes.md): This chapter consists of editorial endnotes that clarify, cross-reference, and defend the narrative of Clarissa. It addresses criticisms of Lovelace's character, explains Clarissa's cautious behavior, and provides script HTML index: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters