Letters 370-394 dated July 28th through August 7th Summary

Mr. Lovelace defends his conduct to Clarissa by citing greater breeches of honor in history and believes Clarissa denies him forgiveness because of Mr. Belford's awkwardness in his pleas. Therefore, he tells Mr. Belford to stop pleading in his favor, so Clarissa's resolve is not strengthened. He hopes that she can be persuaded to marry him and that she is pregnant. He is happy with Miss Howe's mediation and decides not to punish Miss Howe. He will be devastated if Clarissa dies. He is bored in the country and plans to return to town to see Clarissa.

Miss Howe congratulates Clarissa on being unable to join her pure heart with Mr. Lovelace's tainted heart. She praises Clarissa's virtues and urges her to try to improve her health. She assures...