Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 95: Mr. Lovelace, to Joseph Leman explained
Lovelace writes to Joseph Leman, detailing his plan for Clarissa's escape from her family's garden.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Joseph Leman, detailing his plan for Clarissa's escape from her family's garden. He instructs Joseph to create a disturbance to frighten Clarissa into fleeing with him, and provides elaborate signals and contingencies to ensure the plot succeeds without revealing Joseph's involvement.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace devises an elaborate deception to make Clarissa's escape appear consensual, manipulating appearances to mislead her family.
Power and Manipulation
Lovelace exerts control over Joseph Leman and the situation, using threats and promises to ensure compliance.
Family Obligation and Rebellion
Clarissa's planned escape is an act of rebellion against her family's authority and their choice of suitor.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Joseph Leman, orchestrating the escape plan with detailed instructions.
- Clarissa Harlowe
The intended subject of the escape; Lovelace anticipates her possible hesitation.
- Joseph Leman
The recipient of the letter, tasked with executing the plan and creating a diversion.
- Mr. Solmes
Mentioned as the rival suitor whom Clarissa would be lost to if the plan fails.
- Betty Barnes
Referenced as a potential distraction for Joseph; Lovelace suggests he might court her.
Key passages
“All my fear is, that, when she comes to the point, the over-niceness of her principles will make her waver, and want to go back”
Lovelace worries that Clarissa's strict moral code will cause her to hesitate and change her mind at the last moment.
Highlights Lovelace's awareness of Clarissa's virtue as an obstacle to his plans.
“If she should guess at you, or find you out, I have it already in my head to write a letter for you to copy, which, occasionally produced, will set you right with her.”
Lovelace promises to provide a forged letter to exonerate Joseph if Clarissa suspects his involvement.
Demonstrates Lovelace's premeditated deceit and willingness to manipulate evidence.