Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 262: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace reports that Clarissa attempted to escape while he was out, but was intercepted by Mrs.
What happens
Lovelace reports that Clarissa attempted to escape while he was out, but was intercepted by Mrs. Sinclair. He anticipates a confrontation with her, confident that his boldness will overpower her modesty now that she has recovered her senses.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace revels in the power imbalance, planning to exploit Clarissa's modesty and confusion after her trauma.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Clarissa's attempt to escape is thwarted by the false pretense of Lovelace being her spouse, and her tears are misinterpreted by Lovelace as a tool for manipulation.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Narrates the letter; describes his anticipation of confronting Clarissa after her failed escape.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Attempts to flee but is stopped by Mrs. Sinclair; later seeks out Lovelace, red-eyed and sighing.
- Mrs. Sinclair
Intercepts Clarissa at the street door and forces her back upstairs.
- Dorcas Wykes
Scolded for allowing Clarissa to reach the passage; reports Clarissa's movements to Lovelace.
Key passages
“She tripped down, with a parcel tied up in a handkerchief, her hood on; and was actually in the entry, when Mrs. Sinclair saw her.”
Clarissa hurried downstairs carrying a small bundle and wearing her hood, but Mrs. Sinclair spotted her just as she reached the hallway.
Describes Clarissa's attempted escape.
“What advantage will the confidence of our sex give me over the modesty of hers, if she be recovered!”
Lovelace thinks his boldness as a man will easily overpower her feminine modesty now that she is lucid.
Highlights Lovelace's predatory confidence.