In letter 17, Clarissa explains to Anne Howe her heated argument with her mother regarding her marriage to Solmes as well as her relationship with Lovelace. It is obvious in the letter that Clarissa has a use in the family and if she weren't to marry, as she suggests, that she would be considerably useless. It is also apparent that Clarissa holds her duty and obedience in high esteem, she just prefers to show it in her own way, hence the difficulties in her situation. The fact that Clarissa states her heart is free again becomes an issue, and her mother expresses that she fears Clarissa s correspondence with Lovelace is a threat to that. However, Clarissa being dutiful and honorable as she is, expresses her fear for her family s well being if she were to cease correspondence. Despite this fact, Clarissa gives her mother permission to view both her and Lovelace s letters, and gives her word that she will discontinue her correspondence as soon as possible. Clarissa, trying to keep the peace amongst the family, writes to Lovelace explaining that his interference is unnecessary, she will handle things on her own, and she will never write another line to him again. Clarissa, even at the end of the letter has hopes that her mother will, procure favor for me, and deliverance from this man. -AC