# Letter 215: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace writes to Belford about his conference with Clarissa following Captain Tomlinson's visit. He describes how Clarissa refuses to pretend they are married to please her uncle, insisting on truth and honesty. Lovelace is frustrated but determined to continue his schemes, vowing not to be outdone by Clarissa and Anna Howe.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace attempts to deceive Clarissa into pretending they are married, while Clarissa insists on truth and refuses to maintain a false appearance.

### Power and Manipulation

Lovelace manipulates the situation with Captain Tomlinson and seeks to gain power over Clarissa through deception and control.

### Female Agency and Virtue

Clarissa exercises her agency by refusing to lie, prioritizing her virtue and veracity over family reconciliation.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Lovelace writes to Belford, detailing his failed attempt to persuade Clarissa to pretend they are married and his renewed determination to pursue his schemes.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Clarissa firmly refuses to lie about being married, insisting on truth and honesty even at the cost of reconciliation with her family.

### John Belford

Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, cautioned not to judge his devices by parts.

### Anna Howe

Lovelace mentions Miss Howe's smuggling scheme and blames her for his lack of progress with Clarissa.

### Captain Tomlinson

Tomlinson is the mediator sent by Clarissa's uncle; Lovelace hopes to turn his errand to his advantage.

## Key lines

> But once more I swear, that I will not be out-Norris’d by a pair of novices.

Lovelace vows he will not be outwitted by Clarissa and Anna Howe, whom he considers inexperienced.

_Lovelace expresses his determination to outmaneuver the two women._

> I will not only risk, but I will forfeit, the reconciliation so near my heart, rather than I will go on to countenance a story so untrue!

Clarissa declares she would rather lose the chance of family reconciliation than support a lie.

_Clarissa's firm stance on truth over convenience._

## Links

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