Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 205: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace writes to Belford about a foolish letter from his uncle, Lord M., which he shows to Clarissa.
What happens
Lovelace writes to Belford about a foolish letter from his uncle, Lord M., which he shows to Clarissa. She refuses a bill enclosed in it and returns the letter without Lovelace's intended reward. Lovelace reflects on modesty and the fall of women.
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
- Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Lovelace hides the full contents of Lord M.'s letter from Clarissa, and reflects on how women's modesty can be a protective appearance.
- Power and Manipulation
Lovelace attempts to use the letter as a bargaining tool for a kiss, but Clarissa's modesty thwarts his plan.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Writes to Belford, frustrated with his uncle's letter, shows it to Clarissa, and reflects on her modesty.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace sends him Lord M.'s letter for perusal.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Refuses the bill offered by Lovelace, reads Lord M.'s letter, and returns it sealed.
- Lord M.
Lovelace's uncle; his letter is described as foolish and full of nonsense.
- Dorcas Wykes
Delivers Clarissa's sealed letter back to Lovelace.
Key passages
“I see, that a truly modest woman may make even a confident man keep his distance.”
A genuinely modest woman can cause even a bold man to hesitate.
Lovelace reflects on Clarissa's effect on him.
“I have already offered the bill enclosed in it to my beloved; and read to her part of the letter. But she refused the bill.”
I offered the enclosed banknote to my beloved and read her part of the letter, but she declined the note.
Clarissa refuses a financial gift from Lovelace.
