# Letter 235: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace recounts a dialogue between Clarissa and the women of the house (Mrs. Moore and Miss Rawlins), where Clarissa refuses to acknowledge him as her husband and condemns his deceitful behavior. He attempts to reconcile with her, kneeling and pleading for forgiveness, but she rebuffs him, asserting her moral superiority and independence. The chapter ends with Lovelace taking lodgings at the house, hoping to win her over.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace's manipulative dialogue and Clarissa's recognition of his 'black heart' highlight the theme of deceit versus true character.

### Female Agency and Virtue

Clarissa asserts her moral independence and refuses to forgive Lovelace, demonstrating her agency and virtue despite her compromised situation.

### Power and Manipulation

Lovelace's strategic use of kneeling, promises, and third-party persuasion illustrates his manipulative pursuit of power over Clarissa.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Narrates the chapter, describes his manipulative dialogue and attempts to reconcile with Clarissa.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Refuses to acknowledge Lovelace as her spouse, condemns his actions, and asserts her moral integrity.

### Miss Rawlins

Engages in dialogue with Clarissa, attempting to persuade her to see Lovelace and hear his side.

### Mrs. Moore

Acts as messenger and mediator, later informs Clarissa of dinner and Lovelace's lodging arrangements.

### John Belford

Recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly throughout the narrative.

## Key lines

> Listners seldom hear good of themselves.

People who eavesdrop often hear negative things about themselves.

_Lovelace reflects on the proverb after listening to Clarissa's conversation._

> He can put on the appearance of an angel of light; but has a black, a very black heart!

He can seem like a good person, but he is truly evil inside.

_Clarissa describes Lovelace's deceptive nature to Miss Rawlins._

> My mind is not sunk with my fortunes. It is, on the contrary, raised above fortune, and above you.

My spirit remains strong despite my financial ruin, and I consider myself superior to you.

_Clarissa asserts her moral superiority over Lovelace despite her reduced circumstances._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-235-mr-lovelace-to-john-belford-esq
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters