# Letter 144: Mrs. Hervey, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mrs. Hervey writes to Clarissa, expressing her sorrow and disappointment over Clarissa's elopement with Lovelace. She reveals that Clarissa's family had been prepared to show leniency if Clarissa had stood her ground, but her flight has caused irreparable damage. Mrs. Hervey warns Clarissa of Lovelace's untrustworthiness and the impossibility of reconciliation, urging her to reflect on her actions.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Clarissa's elopement is framed as a rebellion against her family's authority, with Mrs. Hervey emphasizing the condescension her parents were willing to show.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Mrs. Hervey accuses Clarissa of 'artful flight' and 'cunning preparations,' contrasting Clarissa's claimed innocence with the perceived reality of her actions.

### Libertinism and Morality

Lovelace is condemned as a libertine, and Mrs. Hervey warns Clarissa of the moral dangers of her situation.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

The recipient of the letter; Mrs. Hervey addresses her with a mix of affection and reproach for her elopement.

### Mr. John Harlowe

Clarissa's father; described as being 'like a distracted man' upon hearing of her flight, uttering dreadful imprecations.

### Mrs. Harlowe

Clarissa's mother; fainted from the shock of Clarissa's elopement.

### Robert Lovelace

The man Clarissa eloped with; described as 'the vilest of libertines' and a 'wicked plotter'.

### Dolly Hervey

Mrs. Hervey's daughter; has been forbidden to write to Clarissa but offers her prayers.

### Colonel Morden

Mentioned as a relative whose arrival was awaited before Clarissa's flight.

## Key lines

> The wretch you are with, we are told, is every hour triumphing and defying

Lovelace is reportedly boasting and challenging others about his conquest.

_Mrs. Hervey conveys reports of Lovelace's arrogant behavior._

> Your father and mother (the reverse of what should have been!) would have humbled themselves to you

Your parents were willing to lower themselves and beg for your compliance.

_Mrs. Hervey reveals the family's intended leniency before the elopement._

> The Ides of March are come. But they are not past, the augur replied.

The danger has arrived, but it is not yet over.

_Mrs. Hervey uses the Caesar analogy to warn Clarissa that Lovelace's good behavior may not last._

## Links

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