# Letter 156: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Anna Howe acknowledges receipt of Clarissa's letters and describes a new arrangement with an honest higler named Simon Collins to facilitate daily correspondence. She congratulates Clarissa on her improved spirits and arrival in town, expresses concern about the women Clarissa is staying with, and comments on Lovelace's report that they are married. Anna advises Clarissa to be cautious, not to make enemies, and to insist on marriage if Lovelace does not soon re-urge it. She reassures Clarissa of her vigilance regarding the letters and expresses a wish that they were truly married.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

Anna's diligent efforts to maintain correspondence and her protective advice demonstrate deep loyalty to Clarissa.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace's false report of marriage and Anna's warning about judging the true character of the women Clarissa is staying with highlight the theme.

## Character check-ins

### Anna Howe

Writes to Clarissa, arranging a new correspondence method via Simon Collins, and offers advice and concern.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Recipient of the letter; has arrived in town with improved spirits.

### Robert Lovelace

Reported to have claimed he and Clarissa are married; Anna questions his motives.

### Mr. Hickman

Helped Anna devise the correspondence expedient.

### Simon Collins

Honest higler who will carry letters between Clarissa and Anna.

## Key lines

> I congratulate you on your arrival in town, so much amended in spirits.

I am glad you have reached London and are feeling better.

_Anna expresses relief at Clarissa's improved state._

> If they are not right people, you will find them out in one breakfasting.

If the women you are staying with are dishonest, you will discover it very quickly.

_Anna advises Clarissa to be alert to the character of her companions._

> Would to Heaven, however, you were really married! This is now the predominant wish of Your Anna Howe.

I wish with all my heart that you were truly married; that is my greatest desire for you now.

_Anna's closing wish underscores her concern for Clarissa's security._

## Links

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