Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 218: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Lord M.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Lord M. consenting to his marriage and offering financial support, which he hides from Clarissa. He describes a pleasant carriage ride with her where they discuss their future life, including servants, church attendance, and marriage settlements. Lovelace reveals his internal conflict between admiration for Clarissa's virtue and his libertine inclinations, while Mrs. Sinclair and the nymphs urge him to take advantage of her trust. He also mentions receiving the marriage settlement drafts and his ongoing deception.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace hides Lord M.'s letter, plans to forge a reply, and presents a false front of respectability to Clarissa while plotting with Mrs. Sinclair.
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace struggles between his libertine impulses and his growing admiration for Clarissa's virtue, reflecting on the conflict between his desires and moral reform.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace manipulates Clarissa's trust, controls information, and considers using violence, while Mrs. Sinclair and the nymphs encourage him to exploit her confidence.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the letter, expressing admiration for Clarissa's virtue while plotting deception and considering violence.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Shown as gentle, serene, and virtuous during the carriage ride; discusses future domestic life and expresses hope for reconciliation.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and shares his inner thoughts.
- Lord M.
Sent a letter consenting to Lovelace's marriage and offering financial settlement, but Lovelace hides it from Clarissa.
- Joseph Leman
Mentioned as the informant from the Harlowe family; Clarissa requests he not be a servant in their household.
- Hannah Burton
Clarissa expresses her desire to have Hannah as her servant, whether recovered or not.
Key passages
“I have a letter from Lord M. Such a one as I would wish for, if I intended matrimony. But as matters are circumstanced, I cannot think of showing it to my beloved.”
Lovelace receives a favorable letter from Lord M. about marriage but decides to hide it from Clarissa because he does not truly intend to marry her.
Reveals Lovelace's duplicity and his ongoing deception regarding his intentions.
“Upon the whole, my charmer was all gentleness, all ease, all serenity, throughout this sweet excursion.”
Clarissa was completely calm and happy during their carriage ride together.
Highlights Clarissa's trusting and virtuous demeanor, contrasting with Lovelace's scheming.
“My heart, my heart, Belford, is not to be trusted”
Lovelace admits to Belford that he cannot trust his own feelings, indicating internal conflict.
Shows Lovelace's self-awareness and the tension between his admiration for Clarissa and his libertine nature.