Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 279: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford, justifying his continued manipulation of Clarissa.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford, justifying his continued manipulation of Clarissa. He recounts the women's reasoning that Clarissa's tears and eloquence are no defense, and that she was insensible during her trial. He plots a new pretext—having Dorcas drop a promissory note to create a 'detection' that will allow him to detain Clarissa further and keep her under stricter watch. He rationalizes his actions by noting his intention to marry her and the conventional happy ending of a wedding, while also expressing concern for the dying Lord M.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace devises a new pretext (the dropped promissory note) to maintain control over Clarissa, demonstrating his relentless manipulation.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace plans to use a false 'detection' to justify his actions, highlighting the gap between appearances and truth.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Author of the letter; reveals his ongoing schemes and rationalizations for manipulating Clarissa.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace anticipates his curses and moral objections.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Subject of Lovelace's schemes; described as insensible during her trial and now armed with a tale to tell with honour.
- Dorcas Wykes
Mentioned as the servant who might drop the promissory note to create a pretext for Lovelace.
- Lord M.
Reported to be dying in great agony; Lovelace expresses a 'too compassionate heart' for him.
Key passages
“A woman's tears used to be to me but as water sprinkled on a glowing fire, which gives it a fiercer and brighter blaze”
Lovelace admits that Clarissa's tears only inflame his desire rather than deter him.
Reveals his sadistic pleasure in her distress.
“What is that injury which a church-rite will not at any time repair?”
Lovelace argues that marriage can undo any harm he causes.
Reflects his cynical view of marriage as a cure-all for his transgressions.