Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 221: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Captain Tomlinson, which reports that Mr.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford about a letter from Captain Tomlinson, which reports that Mr. John Harlowe is surprised and grieved that Lovelace and Clarissa are not yet married. Mr. John Harlowe proposes that they marry privately but let it be believed they have been married since the time of Hickman's application. Lovelace pressures Clarissa to agree, and she reluctantly acquiesces, though she insists on waiting for the settlements and license. Lovelace reveals he is planning further manipulations, hinting at a 'little mine' he intends to spring.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace and Mr. John Harlowe conspire to make it appear that Clarissa and Lovelace have been married longer than they have, to protect family honor.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace manipulates Clarissa into agreeing to the secret marriage plan, while also plotting further schemes against her.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa feels compelled to obey her uncle's proposal despite her misgivings, highlighting the tension between family duty and personal autonomy.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford, recounting the letter from Captain Tomlinson and his manipulation of Clarissa.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Reluctantly agrees to the proposal of a secret marriage, though she is distressed by the deception.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace shares his schemes and reflections.
- Captain Tomlinson
Acts as intermediary between Mr. John Harlowe and Lovelace, conveying the proposal for a secret marriage.
- Mr. John Harlowe
Proposes that Lovelace and Clarissa marry privately and pretend they have been married since Hickman's application.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as continuing to plot against Lovelace, seeking to find where they are living.
Key passages
“See, Mr. Lovelace, said she, what you have brought me to, by treading after you in such crooked paths!—See what disgrace I have incurred!—Indeed you have not acted like a wise man.”
Clarissa reproaches Lovelace for leading her into deceit and disgrace, blaming his unwise actions.
Clarissa expresses regret and frustration at being forced into a web of lies.
“And since what's past cannot be recalled, my uncle must be obeyed, I think.”
Clarissa resigns herself to obeying her uncle's proposal, acknowledging that the past cannot be changed.
Clarissa reluctantly accepts the plan, prioritizing family duty over her own feelings.
“A little mine, I call it. But it may be attended with great effects. I shall not, however, absolutely depend upon the success of it, having much more effectual ones in reserve.”
Lovelace hints at a small but potentially impactful scheme he is preparing, though he has other more powerful plans ready.
Lovelace reveals his ongoing manipulation and strategic plotting against Clarissa.