Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 255: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq. explained
Lovelace details his plot to deceive Clarissa by having two women impersonate Lady Betty Lawrance and Miss Charlotte Montague, using a hired coach and jewels to stage a rescue that will lead her back to Mrs.
What happens
Lovelace details his plot to deceive Clarissa by having two women impersonate Lady Betty Lawrance and Miss Charlotte Montague, using a hired coach and jewels to stage a rescue that will lead her back to Mrs. Sinclair's brothel. He instructs the impostors on their roles, emphasizing the need for natural airs and guarded eyes to avoid detection.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- 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 orchestrates an elaborate masquerade, coaching impostors to mimic nobility and exploit Clarissa's trust.
- Power and Manipulation
Lovelace exerts control over the situation, directing every detail of the plot to trap Clarissa.
Characters to notice
- Robert Lovelace
Schemes to deceive Clarissa with false relatives.
- John Belford
Recipient of Lovelace's letter detailing the plot.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Target of Lovelace's deception; described as cool and distinguishing.
- Lady Betty Lawrance
Impersonated by Lady Bab. Wallis in Lovelace's scheme.
- Miss Charlotte Montague
Impersonated by Johanetta Golding in Lovelace's scheme.
- Mrs. Sinclair
Has prepared for Clarissa's reception at the brothel.
Key passages
“Well, but now my plots thicken; and my employment of writing to thee on this subject will soon come to a conclusion.”
My schemes are intensifying, and I will soon finish writing to you about them.
Lovelace signals the climax of his plan.
“I must soon blow up the lady, or be blown up myself.”
I must either expose and ruin the lady, or be ruined myself.
Lovelace frames the deception as a high-stakes gamble.
“Your commonly-assumed dignity won’t do for me now. Airs of superiority, as if born to rank.—But no overdo!—Doubting nothing.”
Your usual pretentiousness won't work here. Act naturally superior, but don't overdo it—act as if you have no doubts.
Lovelace instructs the impostors on subtlety.
