# Letter 320: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Clarissa writes to Anna Howe, expressing concern that her troubles may bring danger to Anna and Mr. Hickman. She describes her current lodgings with the Smiths, her cautious attendance at early morning prayers, and her acquaintance with the pious widow Mrs. Lovick. She reflects on her suffering, her family's irreconcilable anger, and her father's malediction, while striving to maintain religious fortitude.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa frames her ongoing trials as probationary conflicts, seeking to rise above worldly disappointments through religious reflection and grace.

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Clarissa laments her family's irreconcilable anger and the weight of her father's malediction, showing the lasting impact of familial duty and rebellion.

## Character check-ins

### Clarissa Harlowe

Narrates her current state of distress, describes her lodgings and daily routines, and reflects on her father's curse and her own spiritual struggles.

### Anna Howe

Recipient of the letter; Clarissa expresses concern for her safety regarding Lovelace's potential machinations.

### Mr. Hickman

Mentioned as a possible target of Lovelace's vindictive attempts; Clarissa sends compliments to him.

### Mrs. Lovick

A widow lodging in the same house, described as pious, prudent, and of good understanding; Clarissa intends to become well acquainted with her.

### Mrs. Smith

Wife of the glove-maker at whose house Clarissa lodges; described as a matron-like, plain-hearted, and prudent woman.

## Key lines

> I am extremely concerned, my dear Miss Howe, for being primarily the occasion of the apprehensions you have of this wicked man’s vindictive attempts.

Clarissa worries that her troubles have put Anna in fear of Lovelace's revenge.

_Clarissa expresses guilt and concern for her friend's safety._

> I think I cannot be more private than where I am. I hope I am safe.

Clarissa believes her current lodgings offer sufficient privacy and safety.

_Clarissa assesses the security of her hiding place._

> Happy the marriage, where neither man nor wife has any wilful or premeditated evil in their general conduct to reproach the other with!

Clarissa reflects that a good marriage is one where both spouses have nothing wicked to blame each other for.

_Clarissa muses on the ideal of marital harmony._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-320-miss-clarissa-harlowe-to-miss-howe
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters