Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 299: Hannah Burton explained
Hannah Burton responds to Clarissa, expressing her sorrow over Clarissa's misfortunes and her desire to help, but explaining that she is confined to her room at her mother's house due to a rheumatism that has left her helpless.
What happens
Hannah Burton responds to Clarissa, expressing her sorrow over Clarissa's misfortunes and her desire to help, but explaining that she is confined to her room at her mother's house due to a rheumatism that has left her helpless. She promises to pray for Clarissa and reaffirms her loyalty and devotion.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
Hannah's letter exemplifies unwavering loyalty and affection for Clarissa, despite her own physical limitations and inability to provide direct assistance.
Suffering and Redemption
Both Clarissa's misfortunes and Hannah's own illness reflect the theme of suffering, while Hannah's prayers and devotion suggest a hope for redemption or relief.
Characters to notice
- Hannah Burton
Writes to Clarissa expressing sorrow and loyalty, but is unable to come to her aid due to illness.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of Hannah's letter, referred to with deep affection and concern.
Key passages
“I have not forgot to write, and never will forget anything you, my dear young lady, was so good as to larn me.”
I have not forgotten to write, and I will never forget anything you, my dear young lady, were so kind as to teach me.
Hannah assures Clarissa of her lasting gratitude and memory of Clarissa's kindness.
“Gladd at harte would I be to be able to come to you. But indeed I have not been able to stir out of my rome here at my mother’s ever since I was forsed to leave my plase with a roomatise, which has made me quite and clene helpless.”
I would be overjoyed to be able to come to you. But truly, I have not been able to leave my room at my mother's house ever since I was forced to leave my position due to rheumatism, which has left me completely helpless.
Hannah explains her inability to visit Clarissa due to her own debilitating illness.
“I will pray for you night and day, my dearest, my kindest, my goodest young lady, who have been so badly used; and I am very sorry I cannot come to do you love and sarvice; which will ever be in the harte of mee to do, if it was in my power.”
I will pray for you night and day, my dearest, kindest, best young lady, who have been so badly treated; and I am very sorry I cannot come to show you my love and service, which will always be in my heart to do, if it were in my power.
Hannah expresses her deep sorrow and devotion, promising prayers and lamenting her inability to serve Clarissa in person.