Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 206: Lord M. to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained
Lord M.
What happens
Lord M. writes to Lovelace expressing his hope that Lovelace will soon marry Clarissa and reform his rakish ways. He offers generous settlements, including a choice of estates and a thousand pounds a year, and advises Lovelace on both private and public conduct. Lord M. also conveys the support of Lady Sarah and Lady Betty, and urges Lovelace to seek a parliamentary seat and live virtuously.
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
- Family Obligation and Rebellion
Lord M. urges Lovelace to reconcile with Clarissa's family and fulfill his familial duties as a husband and father.
- Libertinism and Morality
Lord M. admonishes Lovelace's past libertine behavior and encourages moral reform through marriage.
- Class and Social Reputation
The letter emphasizes the importance of public conduct, parliamentary ambition, and the family's social standing.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Recipient of the letter; Lord M. advises him to marry Clarissa and reform his behavior.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Referred to as the 'fine lady' and 'dear niece' by Lord M., who praises her writing and offers her a settlement.
- Lord M.
Author of the letter; expresses his desire for Lovelace's marriage and reformation, and offers financial support.
- Lady Betty Lawrance
Mentioned as joining in compliments to Clarissa and eager to celebrate the wedding.
- Lady Sarah Sadleir
Mentioned as joining in compliments to Clarissa and eager to celebrate the wedding.
- Miss Charlotte Montague
Mentioned as joining in compliments to Clarissa.
Key passages
“It is a long lane that has no turning.”
Every difficult situation eventually changes.
Lord M. uses a proverb to suggest that Lovelace's wild ways will come to an end.
“No man is always a fool, every man is sometimes.”
Everyone makes mistakes at times, but no one is foolish forever.
Lord M. advises Lovelace that his follies should now cease.
“Worth is best known by want!”
A person's true value is recognized when they are no longer present.
Lord M. reflects on the loss of Lovelace's aunt.
“God send me a friend, that may tell me of my faults: if not, an enemy, and he will.”
It is better to have someone who will point out your mistakes, even if they are an enemy.
Lord M. justifies his frank advice to Lovelace.
“The more noble anyone is, the more humble.”
True nobility is accompanied by humility.
Lord M. encourages Lovelace to be humble.
