Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 140: Mr. Lovelace, to Joseph Leman explained
Lovelace writes to Joseph Leman, reassuring him of his abilities and addressing Joseph's qualms about his past with Miss Betterton.
What happens
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 outlines his plan to manipulate the Harlowe family through Joseph. Lovelace proposes using Captain Singleton to suggest carrying off Clarissa to Leith, and insists Joseph must persevere in their scheme, warning that if Clarissa is not secured, all their efforts will be lost.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace manipulates Joseph Leman by presenting himself as reformed and virtuous while plotting elaborate deceptions against the Harlowe family and Clarissa.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace exerts control over Joseph through flattery and threats, and devises a scheme using Captain Singleton to manipulate James Harlowe and force Clarissa's hand.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Joseph Leman, justifying his past with Miss Betterton, asserting his reform, and outlining manipulative plans to secure Clarissa.
- Joseph Leman
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace praises his invention and discretion, urges him to overcome qualms, and instructs him to propose a scheme involving Captain Singleton.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Referred to as Lovelace's 'angel' and the object of his marriage pursuit; he notes her resolve to seek family reconciliation and her refusal to marry until then.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as having 'black, pitch-like blood' and being vengeful; Lovelace plans to use Singleton to exploit James's desire for revenge.
- Anna Howe
Mentioned as putting Clarissa upon contrivances, prompting Lovelace to manipulate the Howe family through Joseph.
Key passages
“I have ever had more pleasure in my contrivances, than in the end of them.”
Lovelace enjoys the process of scheming more than the actual outcome.
Reveals Lovelace's delight in manipulation for its own sake.
“It is cruel to ask a modest woman for her consent. It is creating difficulties to both.”
Lovelace believes that seeking a woman's consent is unnecessary and only causes problems.
Highlights Lovelace's predatory attitude toward women.
“All my errors, all my expenses, have been with and upon women.”
Lovelace admits that his faults and financial losses are all related to his dealings with women.
Shows Lovelace's self-awareness of his womanizing nature.
“Now you have set your hand to the plough, Joseph, there is no looking back.”
Lovelace tells Joseph that once committed to the plan, he cannot withdraw.
Emphasizes the irreversible nature of their conspiracy.