# Letter 459: Mrs. Norton, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mrs. Norton reports on a family meeting at Harlowe-place, convened by Colonel Morden to plead for Clarissa. Despite Morden's efforts, the family remains divided, with James Jr. and Arabella hardening their stance, while Mrs. Harlowe and uncles show some softening. Mrs. Norton is denied permission to visit Clarissa, and the meeting ends in anger, with Morden storming out and vowing to support Clarissa.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Obligation and Rebellion

Clarissa's rebellion against her family's wishes is central; the family meeting debates whether to forgive her, highlighting the tension between duty and individual will.

### Class and Social Reputation

The family's concern for their 'disgrace' and the impact of Clarissa's dishonour on their social standing drives much of their resistance to reconciliation.

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa's penitence and ill health are emphasized, with Mrs. Norton and Colonel Morden arguing for her redemption, while others remain unforgiving.

## Character check-ins

### Mrs. Norton

Attends the family meeting, pleads for Clarissa, and is rebuffed by James Jr. and Mr. Harlowe.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Subject of the family discussion; her ill health and penitence are reported, but she remains unforgiven by most.

### Colonel Morden

Leads the plea for Clarissa, reads Lovelace's letter and Clarissa's answer, but storms out after a heated exchange with James Jr.

### James Harlowe Jr.

Opposes reconciliation, insults Mrs. Norton, and provokes Colonel Morden into leaving.

### Arabella Harlowe

Shows some sympathy but ultimately sides with her brother, blaming Clarissa's error for the family's troubles.

### Mrs. Harlowe

Weeps for Clarissa but is constrained by her husband and son; privately expresses some hope for reconciliation.

## Key lines

> O my child! my child! said you mamma, weeping, and clasping her hands.

Your mother cried out in grief, clasping her hands and calling for you.

_Mrs. Harlowe's emotional reaction to reading Clarissa's farewell to Miss Howe._

> I will instantly make my will, and in me shall the dear creature have the father, uncle, brother, she has lost.

I will immediately write my will, and I will become the father, uncle, and brother that she has lost.

_Colonel Morden's vow to support Clarissa as family after the heated meeting._

> That he wants to be taught the difference between courage and bluster; and it is happy for him, perhaps, that I am his kinsman; though I am sorry he is mine.

He needs to learn the difference between true bravery and empty boasting; it's fortunate for him that I am his relative, though I regret that he is mine.

_Colonel Morden's parting insult to James Jr., implying his bravado is not real courage._

## Links

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