Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 169: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained
Belford writes to Lovelace expressing the unanimous admiration of their circle for Clarissa's intellect and beauty.
What happens
Belford writes to Lovelace expressing the unanimous admiration of their circle for Clarissa's intellect and beauty. He pleads with Lovelace to spare her from his schemes, arguing that her virtue and excellence deserve protection, not ruin. Belford warns that forcing her will bring neither happiness, and urges Lovelace to marry her honorably. The letter is endorsed by Belton, Mowbray, and Tourville.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Belford pleads for Clarissa's redemption from Lovelace's schemes, emphasizing her undeserved suffering.
Friendship and Loyalty
Belford and the companions show loyalty to Clarissa by urging Lovelace to act honorably.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Belford condemns the hypocritical behavior of Mrs. Sinclair and the deceptive environment Clarissa is trapped in.
Characters to notice
- John Belford
Writes to Lovelace, pleading for Clarissa's safety and urging marriage.
- Robert Lovelace
Recipient of Belford's letter; Belford criticizes his plotting heart and urges reform.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Praised as an incomparable woman of understanding, beauty, and virtue; Belford fears for her safety.
- Mrs. Sinclair
Referred to as a hypocritical figure; Belford condemns her role in the house.
- Thomas Belton
One of the companions who endorses Belford's letter.
- Richard Mowbray
One of the companions who endorses Belford's letter.
Key passages
“Sweet are the joys that come with willingness.”
Pleasures are only truly sweet when they are freely given.
Belford argues that forcing Clarissa will bring no real happiness.
“She is in my eye all mind: and were she to meet with a man all mind likewise, why should the charming qualities she is mistress of be endangered?”
I see her as purely intellectual; if she found a man of equal intellect, her fine qualities would be safe.
Belford idealizes Clarissa as a being of pure mind, above domestic life.
“Hitherto, it is not too late; and that perhaps is as much as can be said, if thou meanest to preserve her esteem and good opinion, as well as person.”
It is still not too late to save her respect and affection, along with her physical safety.
Belford urges Lovelace to act before it is too late to preserve Clarissa's trust.