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Clarissa · Chapter

Letter 166: Mr. Hickman, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained

Mr.

What happens

Mr. Hickman writes to Clarissa at Miss Howe's command, expressing her concern over the distress caused by her last letter and assuring Clarissa that she will not pursue the matter that alarmed her. He offers his own faithful service and wishes for Clarissa's deliverance from her troubles.

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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.

SetupEscalationAftermathClimax
  • 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.

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Themes in this chapter

  • Friendship and Loyalty

    Miss Howe's concern and willingness to risk censure to serve Clarissa, and Mr. Hickman's offer of faithful service, highlight the theme of loyal friendship.

  • Suffering and Redemption

    Clarissa's present state is described as troubled, and Mr. Hickman wishes for her happy deliverance, reflecting the theme of suffering and hope for redemption.

Characters to notice

  • Mr. Hickman

    Writes to Clarissa at Miss Howe's command, conveying her concern and offering his own services.

  • Anna Howe

    Commands Mr. Hickman to write, expressing concern for the distress she caused and offering to help Clarissa despite censure.

  • Clarissa Harlowe

    Recipient of the letter; her troubled state is the subject of concern.

Key passages

  • “She is excessively concerned for the concern she has given you in her last letter: and that, if you will but write to her, under cover as before, she will have no thoughts of what you are so very apprehensive about.”

    Miss Howe is very sorry for the distress her last letter caused you, and if you write back as before, she will drop the matter that worried you.

    Mr. Hickman conveys Miss Howe's apology and reassurance.

  • “If she had but the least imagination that she can serve you, and save you, all the censures of the world will be but of second consideration with her.”

    If she thinks she can help and rescue you, she will disregard any criticism from others.

    Miss Howe prioritizes Clarissa's welfare over social judgment.

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