# Letter 205: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace writes to Belford about a foolish letter from his uncle, Lord M., which he shows to Clarissa. She refuses a bill enclosed in it and returns the letter without Lovelace's intended reward. Lovelace reflects on modesty and the fall of women.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace hides the full contents of Lord M.'s letter from Clarissa, and reflects on how women's modesty can be a protective appearance.

### Power and Manipulation

Lovelace attempts to use the letter as a bargaining tool for a kiss, but Clarissa's modesty thwarts his plan.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Writes to Belford, frustrated with his uncle's letter, shows it to Clarissa, and reflects on her modesty.

### John Belford

Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace sends him Lord M.'s letter for perusal.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Refuses the bill offered by Lovelace, reads Lord M.'s letter, and returns it sealed.

### Lord M.

Lovelace's uncle; his letter is described as foolish and full of nonsense.

### Dorcas Wykes

Delivers Clarissa's sealed letter back to Lovelace.

## Key lines

> I see, that a truly modest woman may make even a confident man keep his distance.

A genuinely modest woman can cause even a bold man to hesitate.

_Lovelace reflects on Clarissa's effect on him._

> I have already offered the bill enclosed in it to my beloved; and read to her part of the letter. But she refused the bill.

I offered the enclosed banknote to my beloved and read her part of the letter, but she declined the note.

_Clarissa refuses a financial gift from Lovelace._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters