# Letter 178: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing gratitude for her friendship and discussing her strained relationship with Lovelace. She describes a confrontation with Lovelace when she attempts to go to church alone, and her resolve to remain distant until she hears from her uncle about a possible reconciliation with her family.

## Themes in this chapter

### Female Agency and Virtue

Clarissa asserts her agency by attempting to go to church alone and maintaining distance from Lovelace, despite his attempts to control her movements.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace's graceful appearance and obsequious manner contrast with his manipulative behavior, highlighting the theme of deception.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

Clarissa writes to Anna, expressing her gratitude and describing her efforts to maintain distance from Lovelace while awaiting news from her uncle.

### Anna Howe

Anna is the recipient of Clarissa's letter, praised for her steadfast friendship and support during Clarissa's adversity.

### Robert Lovelace

Lovelace confronts Clarissa as she tries to go to church, complains of her treatment, and insists on attending her, leading to a tense exchange.

### Dorcas Wykes

Dorcas is called by Lovelace to bring his sword and hat during the confrontation with Clarissa.

### Mrs. Sinclair

Mrs. Sinclair appears briefly, offering chocolate to Clarissa, who rebuffs her by suggesting she take Lovelace in with her.

## Key lines

> I must be silent, my exalted friend, under praises that oppress my heart with a consciousness of not deserving them; at the same time that the generous design of those praises raises and comforts it: for it is a charming thing to stand high in the opinion of those we love; and to find that there are souls that can carry their friendships beyond accidents, beyond body and ties of blood.

Clarissa feels unworthy of Anna's praise but is comforted by the knowledge that true friendship transcends physical circumstances and family ties.

_Clarissa expresses her deep appreciation for Anna's unwavering support._

> I am sorry you have reason to think Singleton’s projects are not at an end. But who knows what the sailor had to propose?⁠—Yet had any good been intended me, this method would hardly have been fallen upon.

Clarissa regrets that Singleton's schemes may still be active, but doubts any good could come from his methods.

_Clarissa references Singleton's ongoing threat, as previously mentioned by Anna._

> I have made a handle of Mr. Lovelace’s bold attempt and freedom, as I told you I would, to keep him ever since at a distance, that I may have an opportunity to see the success of the application to my uncle, and to be at liberty to embrace any favourable overtures that may arise from it.

Clarissa uses Lovelace's recent audacity as an excuse to keep him at arm's length while she waits to hear from her uncle about a possible reconciliation.

_Clarissa explains her strategy of maintaining distance from Lovelace to await her uncle's response._

> He was very full of assiduities all the way; while I was as reserved as possible: and when I returned, dined, as I had done the greatest part of the week, by myself.

Lovelace was overly attentive during the coach ride, but Clarissa remained cold and ate alone after returning home.

_Clarissa describes her continued emotional distance from Lovelace despite his efforts._

## Links

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