Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 389: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Clarissa writes to John Belford, thanking him for his communications and acknowledging Lovelace's premeditated baseness.
What happens
Clarissa writes to John Belford, thanking him for his communications and acknowledging Lovelace's premeditated baseness. She declares she has weighed all possibilities and finds more satisfaction in the prospect of death than in any reconciliation with Lovelace. She then makes a bold request: that Belford act as the protector of her memory and executor of her will, using his materials to do her character justice, and that he consult Anna Howe as needed.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa finds solace in the hope of death as an end to her sufferings, viewing it as a release and a path to peace.
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Clarissa notes that Lovelace's accounts are 'decent' in narration but conceal a vile heart, highlighting the gap between appearance and truth.
Friendship and Loyalty
Clarissa values Anna Howe's friendship above all worldly considerations and entrusts Belford with her memory, showing deep reliance on loyal allies.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
Expresses gratitude to Belford, reflects on Lovelace's baseness, and requests Belford to be her executor and protector of her memory.
- John Belford
Addressed by Clarissa; she thanks him for his communications and asks him to undertake the role of executor and defender of her character.
- Robert Lovelace
Indirectly referenced as the 'unhappy man' whose premeditated baseness and inhumanity are condemned by Clarissa.
- Anna Howe
Mentioned as the dearest friend whose friendship Clarissa values, and whom Belford should consult in executing her requests.
Key passages
“I have more satisfaction in the hope that, in one month, there will be an end of all with me, than in the most agreeable things that could happen from an alliance with Mr. Lovelace, although I were to be assured he would make the best and tenderest of husbands.”
Clarissa says she would rather die within a month than marry Lovelace, even if he were the kindest husband.
Clarissa expresses her preference for death over any future with Lovelace.
“I shall not be apprehensive of involving anyone in my troubles or hazards by this task, either with my own relations, or with your friend; having dispositions to make which perhaps my own friends will not be so well pleased with as it were to be wished they would be.”
Clarissa assures Belford that her will and requests will not cause trouble for him or others, though her family may not approve of her decisions.
Clarissa anticipates family disapproval but remains resolute in her plans.