Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 103: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace recounts to Belford the journey and arrival at St.
What happens
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 marriage and love of intrigue, and his strategic use of a promise to secure a kiss. He also reveals his manipulation of the Harlowe family through Joseph Leman and his satisfaction at their continued rage.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace poses as a brother to the innkeeper and manipulates perceptions of the elopement.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace details his strategic use of Joseph Leman, his arguments, and his 'tub to the whale' diversion tactic.
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace struggles with his libertine nature, his 'maiden vow' to subdue Clarissa, and his prayer for honesty.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the letter; describes his manipulative tactics, internal conflict, and delight in intrigue.
- John Belford
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace's confidant.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Lovelace's companion; described as majestic, uneasy, and resistant to his advances.
- Joseph Leman
Mentioned as Lovelace's informant within the Harlowe household.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as part of the family that continues to rage and persecute Clarissa.
- Arabella Harlowe
Mentioned as part of the family's persecution of Clarissa.
Key passages
“I read their curiosity in their faces, and my beloved's uneasiness in hers. She cast a conscious glance, as she alighted, upon her habit, which was no habit ; and repulsively, as I may say, quitting my assisting hand, hurried into the house.”
Lovelace notices the inn staff's curiosity and Clarissa's discomfort; she looks at her unsuitable travel clothes and refuses his help, rushing inside.
Highlights Clarissa's unease and Lovelace's observational manipulation.
“I ought not to think of marrying Miss Clarissa Harlowe; at least till I can be sure, that she loves me with the preference I must expect from a wife. I begin to stagger in my resolutions. Ever averse as I was to the hymeneal shackles, how easily will prejudices recur!”
Lovelace doubts whether he should marry Clarissa unless she loves him as he expects, and feels his old aversion to marriage returning.
Reveals Lovelace's internal conflict between marriage and libertine freedom.
“One little piece of artifice I had recourse to: When she pushed so hard for me to leave her, I made a request to her, upon a condition she could not refuse; and pretended as much gratitude upon her granting it, as if it were a favour of the last consequence.”
Lovelace tricks Clarissa into promising not to marry another while he is alive and single, then thanks her profusely as if it were a great concession.
Demonstrates Lovelace's cunning and manipulation of promises.