Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 67: Mrs. Howe, to Charles Hickman, Esq. explained
Mrs.
What happens
Mrs. Howe writes to Mr. Hickman, defending her daughter Nancy's skittish behavior and advising him to be patient. She argues that Nancy's free treatment of him indicates her favorable regard, and warns against comparing her to Clarissa Harlowe or showing anger. She invites him to breakfast, urging him to come without resentment.
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
Mrs. Howe's defense of Nancy and her advice to Hickman underscore the loyalty expected in romantic and familial relationships.
- Deception and Appearance vs. Reality
Mrs. Howe suggests that Nancy's apparent indifference may mask genuine affection, highlighting the gap between outward behavior and inner feelings.
Characters to notice
- Mrs. Howe
Writes to Mr. Hickman, defending her daughter Nancy and offering marital advice.
- Mr. Hickman
Recipient of the letter; advised to be patient with Nancy's behavior.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Mentioned as an example of a woman who has been plain in repulses, unlike Nancy.
- Mr. Solmes
Referenced as a comparison for Hickman's doubts about Nancy's treatment.
- Robert Lovelace
Mentioned in a hypothetical about changing mistresses.
Key passages
“if Nancy did not think well of you upon the main, she is too generous to treat you so freely as she does.”
If Nancy didn't truly care for you, she wouldn't be so open with you.
Mrs. Howe interprets Nancy's free behavior as a sign of genuine regard.
“What workman loves not a sharp tool to work with? But is there not more danger from a sharp tool than from a blunt one?”
A clever person is like a sharp tool—useful but risky.
Mrs. Howe uses a metaphor to argue that Nancy's wit is valuable despite its challenges.
