Letters 46-55 dated March 22nd through March 24th Summary

Miss Howe jokingly suggests that Clarissa attempt to negotiate to marry Mr. Hickman instead of Mr. Solmes or Mr. Lovelace. Mr. Hickman's visit interrupts Miss Howe's letter writing, which irritates her, so Miss Howe is pettish and rude to him. She characterizes all three men as schoolboys in her imagination. Miss Howe insults the Harlowes, blaming Mrs. Harlowe's submission to her husband for the treatment that Clarissa is currently receiving. Mr. Hickman encounters some of Mr. Lovelace's vulgar friends, who praise his personality but cannot defend his morals. Mr. Lovelace visits Miss Howe, reiterating his offer of protection for Clarissa and threatening violence if Clarissa becomes Mrs. Solmes. Mr. Lovelace agrees that Clarissa should resume her estate.

James writes Clarissa to inform her that she is being sent to...