Letters 189-197 dated May 17th through May 21st Summary

Mr. Belford praises Clarissa, saying that he would marry a woman like Clarissa if he could. He points out that if Mr. Lovelace ruins Clarissa, it will look like James' scheme to disgrace her. Because Lord M worries about the delays and fears Mr. Lovelace's character, he writes to John Belford begging him to intercede and hasten the wedding. In turn, Mr. Belford writes again to Mr. Lovelace entreating him to treat Clarissa well. Mr. Lovelace is convinced that he will never be happy if he does not try Clarissa virtue, and he defends himself by stating that she loses nothing as long as she resists him. He writes to Lord M saying Clarissa has scruples about the marriage because of Mr. Lovelace's illicit character.

Mr. Belton finds out...