Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 142: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained
Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with Lovelace's teasing behavior and doubting his sincerity.
What happens
Anna Howe writes to Clarissa, expressing frustration with Lovelace's teasing behavior and doubting his sincerity. She advises Clarissa to either despise and hate Lovelace or commit to him fully by seeking protection from his family. Anna criticizes Clarissa's scruples and urges her to act decisively, warning against her brother's plots.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Clarissa, desp…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Friendship and Loyalty
Anna Howe demonstrates deep loyalty to Clarissa, offering candid advice and support despite the risks.
- Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Anna questions Lovelace's true intentions and warns Clarissa about his deceptive behavior.
- Libertinism and Morality
Anna condemns Lovelace's libertine character and contrasts it with Clarissa's virtue.
Characters to notice
- Anna Howe
Writes to Clarissa with strong opinions on Lovelace's character and advice on how to proceed.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Recipient of the letter; Anna addresses her directly, critiquing her hesitation and scruples.
- Robert Lovelace
Discussed as a libertine whose behavior Anna analyzes; she questions his motives and sincerity.
- James Harlowe Jr.
Mentioned as plotting against Clarissa and Lovelace; Anna mocks his half-witted schemes.
- Colonel Morden
Referenced as the cousin whose arrival Clarissa used as a reason to delay Lovelace's offers.
Key passages
“I cannot for my life account for your wretch's teasing ways; but he certainly doubts your love of him.”
I cannot understand why that wretch keeps teasing you, but he clearly doubts that you love him.
Anna expresses confusion about Lovelace's behavior and his insecurity about Clarissa's feelings.
“Were I in your place, and had your charming delicacies, I should, perhaps, do as you do.”
If I were in your situation and had your refined sensibilities, I might act the same way.
Anna acknowledges that Clarissa's scruples are understandable given her character.
“I think Lovelace has given his character in a few words.”
I believe Lovelace has revealed his true nature in just a few words.
Anna references Lovelace's own words as evidence of his character.
