Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 34: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford from a humble inn near Harlowe-place, describing his concealment and his fascination with a simple, innocent local girl he calls 'Rosebud.' He extols her purity and warns Belford not to corrupt her, revealing his
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford from a humble inn near Harlowe-place, describing his concealment and his fascination with a simple, innocent local girl he calls 'Rosebud.' He extols her purity and warns Belford not to corrupt her, revealing his own conflicted nature and a plan to reward her virtue with a monetary gift. The letter also touches on his ongoing scheming against the Harlowe family and his reflections on vice and reform.
Themes in this chapter
Libertinism and Morality
Lovelace's internal conflict between his libertine impulses and his desire to protect Rosebud's innocence highlights the tension between vice and virtue.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace disguises himself and his intentions, presenting a false front to the innkeepers while plotting against the Harlowe family.
Class and Social Reputation
The contrast between the humble Rosebud and the wealthy Harlowes underscores class divisions; Lovelace's plan to give money to Johnny and Rosebud reflects a patronizing view of lower-class virtue.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford from the White Hart inn, detailing his admiration for 'Rosebud' and his strategic hiding near Harlowe-place.
- John Belford
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace instructs him to come in disguise and warns him not to seduce the innocent Rosebud.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Referred to as 'a certain angel' who has appeared at Harlowe-place; Lovelace hopes her influence may reform him.
- Lord M.
Mentioned as the host for Lovelace's friends; Lovelace plans to visit him to allay suspicions.
Key passages
“I have a confounded mischievous one—by nature too, I think!—A good motion now-and-then rises from it: but it dies away presently—a love of intrigue—an invention for mischief—a triumph in subduing—fortune encouraging and supporting—and a constitution—What signifies palliating?”
Lovelace admits his naturally mischievous character, prone to intrigue and domination, though occasional good intentions arise but quickly fade.
Lovelace's self-awareness of his own flawed nature and his struggle between reform and vice.
“I intend, before I leave these parts (successfully shall I leave them I hope, or I shall be tempted to double the mischief by way of revenge, though not to my Rosebud any) to join an hundred pounds to Johnny's aunt's hundred pounds, to make one innocent couple happy.”
Lovelace plans to give a hundred pounds to the young couple Johnny and Rosebud to secure their marriage, as a form of atonement for his past misdeeds.
Lovelace's attempt at moral compensation through a charitable act, while still contemplating further schemes.