# Letter 537: Translation of a Letter from F. J. de la Tour explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

F. J. de la Tour reports to John Belford the details of the fatal duel between Lovelace and Colonel Morden. Lovelace is mortally wounded, acknowledges his destiny, and dies after a night of suffering, calling out to Clarissa. Morden departs, and de la Tour arranges for the body and dispatches Lovelace's final packet.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Lovelace's final suffering and his words 'Let this expiate!' suggest a desire for atonement for his wrongs against Clarissa.

### Power and Manipulation

The duel is the culmination of Lovelace's manipulative schemes; his 'cursed fate' and acknowledgment of provoking his destiny reflect the consequences of his power plays.

## Character check-ins

### Robert Lovelace

Mortally wounded in the duel; dies after a night of suffering, calling out to Clarissa and expressing remorse.

### Colonel Morden

Wounds Lovelace fatally in the duel, then departs into Venetian territories after urging Lovelace to commend himself to God.

### John Belford

Recipient of the letter; Lovelace's packet is to be sent to him.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Invoked by Lovelace in his dying moments as 'Sweet Excellence! Divine Creature! Fair Sufferer!'

## Key lines

> I have provoked my destiny, and acknowledge that I fall by a man of honour.

I brought this fate upon myself, and I admit that I am defeated by a man of integrity.

_Lovelace's final admission of responsibility for his own downfall._

> Let this expiate!

May this death serve as atonement!

_Lovelace's last words, expressing hope that his death will make amends for his sins._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/clarissa_se/chapters