# Letter 530: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Lovelace writes from Paris to Belford, reflecting on his guilt and the sting of Clarissa's generosity as seen in her will and posthumous letter. He quotes Horace and Dryden, then outlines his travel plans through European courts, and asks Belford for news of friends and acquaintances.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Lovelace is tormented by guilt and conscience, seeking consolation but unable to escape his remorse.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Lovelace's blustering quotes mask his inner turmoil; he admits conscience is the true conqueror.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Writes from Paris, tormented by guilt and Clarissa's generosity, plans travels through European courts.

### John Belford

Recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks for news of his reformation and others.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Her will and posthumous letter sting Lovelace with their generosity.

### Anna Howe

Lovelace inquires if she is married or near being so.

### Miss Charlotte Montague

Lovelace writes to her as a way to communicate with all his relations.

### Richard Mowbray

Lovelace hopes to see him in Paris and asks Belford how he goes on.

## Key lines

> But the generosity of her mind displayed in both, is what stings me most. And the more still, as it is now out of my power any way in the world to be even with her.

What hurts me most is the magnanimity she showed in her will and letter, and I can never repay her.

_Lovelace acknowledges Clarissa's moral superiority and his own helplessness._

> for conscience is the conqueror of souls; at least it is the conqueror of mine; and who ever thought it a narrow one?

Conscience defeats the soul, and it has defeated mine—though no one ever accused me of having a small soul.

_Lovelace admits that his conscience has overcome him, contradicting his earlier boasts._

## Links

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