Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 224: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford on Wednesday night, eleven o'clock, describing his internal turmoil and the imminent execution of his plot against Clarissa.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford on Wednesday night, eleven o'clock, describing his internal turmoil and the imminent execution of his plot against Clarissa. He vacillates between resolve and cowardice, reflecting on his plans with the women and his fear of the consequences. He resolves to proceed despite his trembling and convulsive fears.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace orchestrates a plot against Clarissa, manipulating her trust and the household arrangements to achieve his ends.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace's outward agreeable behavior contrasts with his hidden scheming, and he questions his own motives and fears.
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace embodies the libertine ethos, struggling between his desires and a fleeting conscience, as he contemplates the moral weight of his actions.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
The letter writer, in a state of agitation and resolve as he prepares to spring his plot.
- John Belford
The recipient of the letter, whose previous arguments nearly dissuaded Lovelace.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The intended victim of Lovelace's plot, referred to as 'my charmer' and 'my beloved'; she has retired for the night.
- Dorcas Wykes
Lovelace's servant, asked if his beloved has kept her word to retire.
Key passages
“Faith, Jack, thou hadst half undone me with thy nonsense, though I would not own it on my yesterday’s letter: my conscience of thy party before.”
Honestly, Jack, your foolish arguments nearly swayed me, though I wouldn't admit it in my last letter; my conscience was already on your side.
Lovelace acknowledges Belford's influence on his conscience.
“So near to execution my plot; so near springing my mine; all agreed upon between the women and me; or I believe thou hadst overthrown me.”
My scheme is about to be carried out; everything is arranged with the women; otherwise, you might have stopped me.
Lovelace reveals the advanced state of his conspiracy.
“If I can but take her before her apprehension, before her eloquence, is awake—”
If I can catch her before she becomes fully aware and before her persuasive speech is active.
Lovelace plans to exploit Clarissa's vulnerability while she is asleep or groggy.