Letter 142: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Friendship and Loyalty

  Anna Howe demonstrates deep loyalty to Clarissa, offering candid advice and support despite the risks.

• Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

  Anna questions Lovelace's true intentions and warns Clarissa about his deceptive behavior.

• Libertinism and Morality

  Anna condemns Lovelace's libertine character and contrasts it with Clarissa's virtue.

Characters to notice

• Anna Howe

  Writes to Clarissa with strong opinions on Lovelace's character and advice on how to proceed.

• Clarissa Harlowe

  Recipient of the letter; Anna addresses her directly, critiquing her hesitation and scruples.

• Robert Lovelace

  Discussed as a libertine whose behavior Anna analyzes; she questions his motives and sincerity.

• James Harlowe Jr.

  Mentioned as plotting against Clarissa and Lovelace; Anna mocks his half-witted schemes.

• Colonel Morden

  Referenced as the cousin whose arrival Clarissa used as a reason to delay Lovelace's offers.

Key passages

• “I cannot for my life account for your wretch's teasing ways; but he certainly doubts your love of him.”

  I cannot understand why that wretch keeps teasing you, but he clearly doubts that you love him.

  Anna expresses confusion about Lovelace's behavior and his insecurity about Clarissa's feelings.

• “Were I in your place, and had your charming delicacies, I should, perhaps, do as you do.”

  If I were in your situation and had your refined sensibilities, I might act the same way.

  Anna acknowledges that Clarissa's scruples are understandable given her character.

• “I think Lovelace has given his character in a few words.”

  I believe Lovelace has revealed his true nature in just a few words.

  Anna references Lovelace's own words as evidence of his character.