In letter 18, Anne Howe writes to Clarissa and tells her not to worry about the relationship that Anne and her mother have. She explains that it is normal and that the two of them need each other to find fault with or else they will need to find it elsewhere. The drastic differences in Anne and Clarissa s personalities are clear in the way they treat their mothers and deal with conflict. Anne and her mother strive under pressure and conflict, while Clarissa does everything possible to avoid conflict with hers. Here we find out the conspiracy happening within the families. It becomes apparent that Anne s mother is being instigated by Clarissa s brother and sister to stop Anne from corresponding with Clarissa. Anne uses her own free will to decide that what her mother is saying is wrong and will not be tolerated. This is very different than how Clarissa would treat the situation. Anne tells Clarissa to be strong and that everything will be okay, as well as reassures her that her mother is pulling for her just as she expected. She expresses her sympathies and reassures her that, . . . displeasure can never go deep, or be lasting. Anne and Clarissa are clearly, through their words and actions, each others strength and compassion.-AC