parents to be an undutiful, and therefore a criminal passion, and
where the supposed object of it is a man of faulty morals. Is
interrupted by a visit from Mrs. Norton, who is sent up to her to
influence her in Solmes's favour. An affecting conversation between
them. What passes upon it, and after it.

LETTER XL. From the same.--
Resumes the requested subject. What sort of man she could have
preferred to Mr. Lovelace. Arguments she has used to herself in his
favour, and in his disfavour. Frankly owns that were he now a moral
man, she would prefer him to all the men she ever saw. Yet is
persuaded, that she could freely give up the one man to get rid of the
other, as she had offered to her friends. Her delicacy affected by
Miss Howe's raillery; and why. Gives her opinion of the force which
figure or person may be allowed to have upon her sex.

LETTER XLI. From the same.--
A letter from her mother (with patterns of rich silks) in which she
entreats her to comply with all their wishes. What ought to be the
principal view of a good wife in adorning her person. Her distress.
Begs leave to wait upon her mother alone. Her father's angry letter,
ordering her to prepare for her wedding-day. Solmes requests to see
her. She refuses. All in tumults below upon it. Her brother and her
sister desire that she may be left to their management.

LETTER XLII. From the same.--
A very warm dialogue between her sister and her. Her sister's envy,
unnatural behaviour, and violence. Clarissa sends down proposals in
writing to her friends, and a letter to her brother. His insolent
answer; in which he tells her, that her proposal will be considered in