Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 227: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford about a series of billets exchanged with Clarissa after the fire scene.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford about a series of billets exchanged with Clarissa after the fire scene. He attempts to reconcile with her, insisting on seeing her to discuss the license and other matters, but she refuses, expressing deep resentment and calling him a 'Judas protector.' Lovelace reflects on her dignity, his own pride, and his conflicted feelings of love and resentment, while planning to obtain a marriage license with the help of Mowbray and Mallory.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace manipulates Clarissa through billets and insists on seeing her, while she resists his control; he reflects on her power over him.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace maintains the pretense of marriage to the people below and to Captain Tomlinson, while Clarissa sees through his 'Judas protector' guise.
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa is in agony, kneeling and sobbing; Lovelace feels pity but struggles with his own pride, hinting at potential redemption.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford detailing his attempts to reconcile with Clarissa after the fire scene; reflects on his pride and her superiority.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Refuses to see Lovelace, expresses hatred and resentment, calls him a 'Judas protector'; seen kneeling in agony.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace references Belford's opinions on Clarissa's superiority.
- Dorcas Wykes
Acts as intermediary, delivering billets between Lovelace and Clarissa.
- Captain Tomlinson
Mentioned as a figure whose upcoming visit necessitates reconciliation between Lovelace and Clarissa.
Key passages
“Condescension indeed implies dignity: and dignity ever was there in her condescension.”
Her willingness to lower herself shows her true nobility, and she always maintained that dignity in her humility.
Lovelace admires Clarissa's ability to be gracious without losing her superiority.
“I must keep my anger alive, lest it sink into compassion.”
I need to stay angry, or else I'll start feeling sorry for her.
Lovelace deliberately suppresses pity to maintain his resolve.
“My soul is above thee, man!”
I am morally superior to you, Lovelace.
Clarissa's defiant words haunt Lovelace and wound his pride.