# Letter 485: To His Dear Niece, Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters/letter-485-to-his-dear-niece-miss-clarissa-harlowe
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