Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 485: To His Dear Niece, Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Uncle John Harlowe writes to Clarissa expressing the family's grief over her illness and their regret for their harsh treatment.
What happens
Uncle John Harlowe writes to Clarissa expressing the family's grief over her illness and their regret for their harsh treatment. He assures her of their love and desire for reconciliation, inviting her to visit or offering to come to her, and conveys that her brother and sister also wish to see her.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Rebellion
The letter shows the family's shift from severe punishment to seeking reconciliation, emphasizing the bonds of familial duty and love.
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa's illness and penitence are met with forgiveness, illustrating the theme of redemption through suffering.
Characters to notice
- Clarissa Harlowe
The recipient of the letter, deeply ill and penitent, longed for by her family.
- Mr. John Harlowe
The writer, Clarissa's uncle and 'second papa,' expressing familial love and regret.
- Antony Harlowe
Mentioned as joining Uncle John in sending tender assurances to Clarissa.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as one of the family members who now talk of seeing Clarissa in town.
- Arabella Harlowe
Mentioned as Clarissa's sister who also talks of visiting her in town.
Key passages
“We were greatly grieved, my beloved Miss Clary, at your fault; but we are still more, if possible, to hear you are so very ill; and we are sorry things have been carried so far.”
We were very sad about your mistake, but we are even sadder to learn you are so sick, and we regret how far things went.
Uncle John expresses the family's sorrow over Clarissa's transgression and her illness, along with regret for their severity.
“Forgive my part in it, my dearest Clary. I am your second papa, you know. And you used to love me.”
Please forgive me for my role in this, my dearest Clary. I am like a second father to you, and you once loved me.
Uncle John appeals for forgiveness, reminding Clarissa of their close relationship.
“My brother Antony desires his hearty commendations to you, and joins with me in the tenderest assurance, that all shall be well, and, if possible, better than ever.”
My brother Antony sends his warm regards and joins me in promising that everything will be fine, and perhaps even better than before.
Uncle John conveys Antony's support and the family's hope for a restored relationship.