# Letter 171: Mr. Lovelace explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace defends his plotting and intentions to Belford, arguing that Clarissa's virtue and rank make her a worthy conquest. He fantasizes about subduing her and claims he can marry her at will, justifying his schemes as a test of her love-proof and plot-proof nature.

## Themes in this chapter

### Libertinism and Morality

Lovelace defends his rakish principles, arguing that his actions are consistent with libertine honour and that marriage vows can be broken.

### Power and Manipulation

Lovelace revels in his plotting heart and describes his plan to subdue Clarissa, viewing her as a conquest.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace questions Clarissa's innocence and love, insisting that her outward caution hides no true affection for him.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Author of the letter; boasts of his plotting heart and justifies his pursuit of Clarissa.

### John Belford

Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses his objections and commands his conviction.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Described as having the Virtues and Graces as handmaids; Lovelace questions her love and innocence.

### Miss Partington

Mentioned as Priscilla Partington in a mocking reference to Clarissa's expectations.

## Key lines

> Well sayest thou, that mine is the most plotting heart in the world.

You rightly call me the most scheming person alive.

_Lovelace acknowledges his own cunning._

> The lady in my power: yet not have intended to put herself in my power.

Clarissa is under my control, though she never meant to be.

_Lovelace reflects on his advantage over Clarissa._

> I can marry her when I will.

I can decide to marry her at any time.

_Lovelace asserts his control over the situation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-171-mr-lovelace
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters