Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 478: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace, in a state of extreme anguish, writes to Belford expressing his fury at Colonel Morden and his possessiveness over Clarissa.
What happens
Lovelace, in a state of extreme anguish, writes to Belford expressing his fury at Colonel Morden and his possessiveness over Clarissa. He insists she is his alone, despite her impending death, and grapples with the terror of eternal separation. He awaits Belford's next letter with desperate hope, rejecting the company of Mowbray and Tourville.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Lovelace's torment is palpable as he anticipates Clarissa's death and his own damnation, contrasting her 'happy eternity' with his own misery.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace's possessive language ('she is mine—and only mine') reveals his attempt to exert control over Clarissa even as she slips away.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes in a frenzy of despair and rage, claiming Clarissa as his own and fearing her death.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace both curses and implores him for news.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Referenced as Lovelace's possession; her fate (living or dying) is the central obsession.
- Colonel Morden
Lovelace curses him, likely for intervening or opposing Lovelace's claims.
- Richard Mowbray
Mentioned as being sent to Lovelace, but Lovelace rejects his company.
- James Tourville
Also mentioned as being sent to Lovelace, but Lovelace does not want him.
Key passages
“Living or dying, she is mine—and only mine.”
Whether she lives or dies, Clarissa belongs to me alone.
Lovelace's assertion of ownership over Clarissa, reflecting his refusal to relinquish control.
“An eternal separation!—O God! O God!—How can I bear that thought!”
The idea of being separated from her forever is unbearable to me.
Lovelace's horror at the prospect of Clarissa's death and their permanent parting.
“my soul’s sick of them, and of all the world—but most of myself.”
I am disgusted with Mowbray and Tourville, with everyone, and especially with myself.
Lovelace's self-loathing and rejection of his usual companions in his despair.