Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 381: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Norton writes to Clarissa, explaining that she had offered to send Clarissa's letter to her mother but was forbidden by Clarissa. She reassures Clarissa that her mother is inclined toward reconciliation and hints at private support, including a gift of five guineas. Mrs. Norton also warns that Mr. Brand, a meddlesome clergyman, has been sent by the family to privately inquire into Clarissa's conduct and health, and advises Clarissa to take no notice. She expresses hope for a full reconciliation and promises to inform Clarissa of Colonel Morden's arrival.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Mrs. Norton mediates between Clarissa and her family, emphasizing the hope for reconciliation while noting the conditional nature of familial favor.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
The family's private inquiries through Mr. Brand and the hidden transfer of money from Mrs. Harlowe illustrate the gap between public appearances and private intentions.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of the letter; Mrs. Norton advises her and reassures her of her mother's tenderness.
- Mrs. Judith Norton
The writer; she expresses her affection for Clarissa and her hope for reconciliation, while also warning about Mr. Brand's private inquiries.
- Mrs. Harlowe
Clarissa's mother; Mrs. Norton reports that she is inclined to show maternal tenderness and has privately sent five guineas.
- Mr. Brand
A meddlesome clergyman chosen by Uncle Harlowe to privately inquire into Clarissa's way of life and health; Mrs. Norton criticizes his character.
- Colonel Morden
Mentioned as the person whose arrival Mrs. Norton will report to Clarissa.
Key passages
“They would choose, no doubt, that you should owe to themselves, and not to my humble mediation, the favour for which you so earnestly sue, and of which I would not have your despair: for I will venture to assure you, that your mother is ready to take the first opportunity to show her maternal tenderness”
The family prefers that any kindness shown to you comes directly from them, not through my intervention; but I can assure you that your mother is eager to demonstrate her love at the earliest chance.
Mrs. Norton reassures Clarissa of her mother's goodwill while explaining the family's desire for direct reconciliation.
“He is one of those puzzling, overdoing gentlemen, who think they see farther into matters than anybody else, and are fond of discovered mysteries where there are none, in order to be thought shrewd men.”
He is the type of man who overcomplicates things, imagining secrets where none exist, just to appear clever.
Mrs. Norton criticizes Mr. Brand's character, warning Clarissa of his meddlesome nature.