Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 285: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation, enclosing copies of three unanswered letters to Clarissa.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford in a state of agitation, enclosing copies of three unanswered letters to Clarissa. He fears she will not respond to his latest ultimatum, which would end her 'day of grace' (Thursday). He admits his pride is shattered by her triumph over him and confesses his plots have turned against him. He asks Belford to visit Clarissa and secure a simple four-word answer agreeing to marry him at a church of her choosing. He also mentions Lord M.'s critical illness and his own schemes to secure his inheritance.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace's elaborate schemes to control Clarissa and secure his inheritance reveal his obsession with power, even as he admits his plots have entrapped himself.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace's confession that his plots have turned against him highlights the theme of deception, as his own machinations create a reality he cannot control.
Suffering and Redemption
Lovelace's anguish and self-reproach ('O that I had been honest!') suggest a desire for redemption, though his actions remain manipulative.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford in a desperate, self-pitying mood, admitting his plots have backfired and begging for Belford's help to secure Clarissa's agreement to marry him.
- John Belford
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace implores him to visit Clarissa and act as his intermediary to obtain her consent to marry.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The object of Lovelace's schemes; she has ignored his previous letters and is now given an ultimatum to respond by Thursday or face consequences.
- Lord M.
Lovelace's uncle, who is dangerously ill; Lovelace mentions his illness and his own plans regarding the inheritance.
- Miss Charlotte Montague
Mentioned briefly as one of Lovelace's 'noble' relations, in contrast to others he accuses of scheming for Lord M.'s wealth.
- Miss Patty Montague
Also mentioned as a 'noble' relation, alongside Charlotte, in contrast to other relatives Lovelace distrusts.
Key passages
“I am entangled in my own devices, and cannot bear that she should detect me. O that I had been honest!”
Lovelace admits his schemes have trapped him and regrets not being honest from the start.
Reveals Lovelace's self-awareness and regret, though he continues to plot.
“Let her send me but one line!—But one line!—To treat me as unworthy of her notice;—yet be altogether in my power—I cannot—I will not bear that.”
Lovelace pleads for even a single line from Clarissa, unable to tolerate being ignored while still holding power over her.
Highlights his desperation and the imbalance of power in their relationship.
“What a devil are all my plots come to! What do they end in, but one grand plot upon myself, and a title to eternal infamy and disgrace!”
Lovelace laments that his elaborate plots have only resulted in self-destruction and lasting shame.
Shows his growing realization of the futility and moral cost of his manipulations.