Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 105: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
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.
What happens
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,' his instructions for directing letters, and his interactions with the Sorlings family, while asserting his unwavering fixation on Clarissa.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace adopts the alias 'Robert Huntingford' and instructs Belford to write in cipher, highlighting the theme of concealment and false appearances.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace manipulates communications, influences Mrs. Howe through Antony, and schemes to control Clarissa's access to her family and friend.
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace's rakish behavior, including his casual advances toward the Sorlings daughters, exemplifies libertine morality.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Author of the letter; reveals his manipulative schemes and his obsession with Clarissa.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace instructs him to write in cipher and discusses his character.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Lovelace's beloved; she is writing to Anna Howe and has requested clothes and books from her family.
- Anna Howe
Clarissa's correspondent; Lovelace fears her influence and seeks to disrupt their communication.
- Antony Harlowe
Mentioned as an agent influencing Mrs. Howe against Clarissa.
- Joseph Leman
Mentioned as an informant; Lovelace references his instructions to him.
Key passages
“Never was there such a pair of scribbling lovers as we;—yet perhaps whom it so much concerns to keep from each other what each writes.”
We are both prolific letter-writers, even though it would be better for us to hide our writings from one another.
Lovelace comments on the irony of their extensive correspondence.
“My predominant passion is girl , not gold ; nor value I this , but as it helps me to that , and gives me independence.”
My main desire is for women, not money; I only value wealth as a means to pursue women and secure my freedom.
Lovelace declares his priorities to Belford.
“I have changed my name: changed it without an act of parliament. 'Robert Huntingford' it is now.”
I have adopted the alias Robert Huntingford without any legal process.
Lovelace informs Belford of his new pseudonym for secrecy.