Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 216: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace reports to Belford on his successful meeting with Captain Tomlinson, whom he has deceived into believing that he and Clarissa are as good as married.
What happens
Lovelace reports to Belford on his successful meeting with Captain Tomlinson, whom he has deceived into believing that he and Clarissa are as good as married. Lovelace confesses the truth to Tomlinson—that they are not yet married—but spins a tale of delays due to Clarissa's desire for family reconciliation and her delicate scruples. He shows Tomlinson forged settlement proposals and a letter from Lord M. to bolster his credibility. Clarissa, overhearing the conversation, is overjoyed at the prospect of reconciliation with her family and expresses gratitude to Lovelace. However, Lovelace's inner turmoil is evident: he wavers between admiration for Clarissa's virtue and his vengeful schemes, ultimately steeling himself again after rereading Miss Howe's insults.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace constructs an elaborate false narrative for Captain Tomlinson, pretending that he and Clarissa are virtually married and that settlements are being drawn, while the truth is far from it.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace manipulates both Tomlinson and Clarissa through his lies, controlling the flow of information to maintain his advantage and pursue his vengeful designs.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa's deepest desire is reconciliation with her family, and she is moved by the hope of being restored to her mother's bosom, highlighting the tension between her rebellion and her longing for familial acceptance.
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa speaks of the 'all-sinking weight of a father's curse' and yearns for redemption through family forgiveness, while Lovelace's internal conflict suggests his own suffering from his divided nature.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the letter; orchestrates the deception of Captain Tomlinson; expresses conflicted feelings of love, revenge, and pride.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Overhears Lovelace's confession to Tomlinson; is hopeful and grateful for the prospect of family reconciliation; described as angelic and serene.
- John Belford
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace's confidant.
- Captain Tomlinson
The go-between for Lovelace and Mr. John Harlowe; is deceived by Lovelace's story and expresses delight at the supposed happy situation.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as a potential threat who seeks to keep the family breach open and get Clarissa out of Lovelace's hands.
- Anna Howe
Mentioned indirectly through Lovelace's reference to 'Miss Howe's virulence'; her contempt stokes Lovelace's vengefulness.
Key passages
“Now have I established myself forever in my charmer’s heart.”
Lovelace believes he has secured Clarissa's affection permanently.
Opening line; sets the tone of triumphant deception.
“I acknowledged nakedly and fairly the whole truth—to wit, 'That we were not yet married.'”
Lovelace admits to Captain Tomlinson that he and Clarissa are not actually married.
Key moment of partial honesty within a larger deception.
“You know not, Mr. Lovelace, how near my heart this hoped-for reconciliation is.”
Clarissa tells Lovelace that the prospect of making peace with her family is deeply important to her.
Reveals Clarissa's emotional priority and vulnerability.
“I must banish reflection, or I am a lost man.”
Lovelace feels he must suppress his conscience and self-doubt to continue his schemes.
Shows Lovelace's internal struggle and deliberate hardening of heart.
