# Letter 117: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

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 proposal of Windsor lodgings to gain her trust. He also discusses his plans to use servants and agents like Joseph Leman to monitor Clarissa and manage potential obstacles, particularly from Miss Howe.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace openly boasts of his inventions and schemes to deceive Clarissa, presenting a false front of gentleness and obedience while planning manipulation.

### Power and Manipulation

Lovelace details his strategic use of proposals, agents, and back-door plans to control Clarissa and counter threats like Miss Howe.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Writes boastfully to Belford about his vanity and inventions, recounts his manipulation of Clarissa, and outlines his schemes.

### John Belford

Recipient of Lovelace's letter, often criticized by Lovelace for his lack of understanding.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Lovelace's target; he studies her apprehension, works to regain her favor, and plans to manipulate her through proposals and agents.

### Anna Howe

Lovelace fears her wit and potential interference; he mentions securing this quarter through his agent Joseph.

### Joseph Leman

Lovelace's agent in the Harlowe family, used to gather intelligence and secure Miss Howe's quarter.

## Key lines

> Thou hast often reproached me, Jack, with my vanity, without distinguishing the humorous turn that accompanies it; and for which, at the same time that thou robbest me of the merit of it thou admirest me highly.

You frequently accuse me of vanity, but you fail to see the humor in it, and while you deny me credit, you secretly admire me.

_Lovelace defends his vanity as a humorous trait that Belford envies._

> But there is nothing upon which I value myself so much as upon my inventions.

I pride myself most on my clever schemes.

_Lovelace emphasizes his pride in his inventive plots._

> Credulity is the God of Love’s prime minister, and they never are asunder.

Gullibility is love's chief servant, and the two are always together.

_Lovelace reflects on how love makes one credulous, a principle he hopes to exploit._

## Links

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