# Letter 142: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with Lovelace's teasing behavior and doubting his sincerity. She advises Clarissa to either despise and hate Lovelace or commit to him fully by seeking protection from his family. Anna criticizes Clarissa's scruples and urges her to act decisively, warning against her brother's plots.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-142-miss-howe-to-miss-clarissa-harlowe
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters