# Letter 463: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace, in a state of extreme agitation and remorse, writes to Belford from Uxbridge, expressing his torment over Clarissa's impending death. He describes his restless rides toward London, his dread of receiving fatal news, and his desperate hope that Belford and Clarissa are conspiring to test his penitence. He threatens violence against any bearer of bad tidings and contemplates leaving England if the worst occurs.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Lovelace experiences profound remorse and imagines a redemptive plot where Clarissa tests his penitence, though his suffering remains self-centered.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace suspects Belford and Clarissa of deceiving him to induce remorse, blurring the line between genuine suffering and manipulative performance.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Writes in a frenzy of guilt and impatience, unable to bear the suspense of Clarissa's condition.

### John Belford

The recipient of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of being too cool and possibly in a plot with Clarissa.

### Clarissa Harlowe

The subject of Lovelace's anguish; he longs to see her but fears offending her and shortening her life.

### Will

Lovelace's servant, sent to London for news; Lovelace rides out to meet him, cursing his delay.

## Key lines

> And can it be, that this admirable creature will so soon leave this cursed world!

Is it possible that Clarissa will die so soon?

_Lovelace expresses disbelief and despair at Clarissa's imminent death._

> I ride towards London three or four times a day, resolving pro and con, twenty times in two or three miles; and at last ride back;

I ride back and forth toward London, changing my mind constantly, and ultimately return without going.

_Lovelace's indecision and agitation are shown through his restless riding._

> I could cut the throat of any man or woman I see laugh, while I am in such dejection of mind.

I feel like killing anyone who laughs while I am so miserable.

_Lovelace's violent impulses reveal his extreme emotional state._

## Links

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