The Samuel Richardson Library
Enter a world of letters, secrets, virtue, temptation, and consequence.The Samuel Richardson Library presents the complete works of one of the great founders of the English novel, read in full. Here are private thoughts committed to paper, hearts tested by love and ambition, and characters forced to choose between desire, duty, reputation, and conscience.From the trials of Pamela to the devastating moral drama of Clarissa, these are stories in which every letter may conceal a motive, reveal a confidence, or alter a life.Attend closely, for in Richardson’s world, the most dangerous battles are often fought upon th...
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 12
In which Lady Davers expresses her admiration for Pamela’s sincere and prudent letters, noting how they delight and win the esteem of her family, especially her brother, whose favour Pamela’s virtue has captured. She encourages Pamela to write with freedom and assures her that this correspondence has inspired a newfound literary enthusiasm within their household, uniting them in affectionate exchange.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 14
In which the narrator dutifully recounts to a lady the troubling tale of Miss Godfrey, expressing sincere pity and an earnest reflection on the frailties and mortifications that love can bring upon a person. She further reveals her fondness for Miss Goodwin, whom she hopes to care for with tender affection, showing the compassionate virtues that guide her conduct throughout this delicate affair.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 13
In which the dutiful and grateful Pamela articulates her profound respect and affection for her noble correspondent, recounting with humble joy the tender lessons and charitable deeds of her late benefactress that have shaped her character. She then offers a concise and affectionate account of a felicitous fortnight spent at a country estate, where the kindness and generosity of her patron and the happiness of her parents shine forth in pastoral contentment.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 11
In which the humble Pamela, in a tone both respectful and sincere, undertakes the delicate task of recounting a most agreeable fortnight spent in the country, interspersed with reflections on the kindness and generosity exhibited by her benefactor. With modesty and heartfelt gratitude, she pledges her continued obedience and openness in correspondence, hopeful to please her ladyship and mindful of her own limitations in the art of letter-writing.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 10
In which a concerned correspondent reflects upon the delicate contents of Pamela’s letters, commending her virtuous resistance against vile advances and expressing fervent sympathy for her trials. The letter further contemplates the characters involved, offering judicious counsel regarding the influence of a wicked woman and the complexities of honour within such troubled circumstances.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 9
In which the correspondent gently entreats Pamela to recount her dealings with the unfortunate Sally Godfrey, assuring her of honest and affectionate counsel despite any faults they may find in her conduct. She admonishes Pamela to embrace her elevated station with dignity, managing her household and social duties with grace, whilst anticipating a continued exchange of letters to foster mutual understanding and familial affection.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 6
In which Lady Davers, having received the delightful and moving letters from Pamela, expresses warm admiration and sympathy for her plight, as well as curiosity about the further unfolding of her story. She conveys the shared sentiments of her family circle, who are charmed and deeply engaged by Pamela’s virtues and experiences, and earnestly requests the continuation of her narrative to marriage.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 8
In which Lady Davers expresses both her initial disappointment and subsequent admiration for Pamela’s dutiful conduct towards her parents, entreating her to continue corresponding with candidness and simplicity as if writing to her family. She assures Pamela of her sincere interest in every detail of her experiences, promising lively discourse and moral reflections that bridge their different stations in life.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 7
In which a humble and grateful correspondent expresses her heartfelt thanks and seeks the gentle judgment of her esteemed ladyship upon the account of her recent trials and tribulations, now happily concluded with honours and reconciliations. She candidly recounts the joyful events following her deliverance from adversity, whilst modestly acknowledging her imperfections and tenderly requesting guidance to improve herself further in her elevated station.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 5
In which the affectionate parents convey their heartfelt gratitude and tender hopes to their beloved child, embracing a new trust with prudent resolve and wholesome industry. They find comfort and joy in the good repute and loving remembrance that surrounds their dear Pamela and her husband, while modestly acknowledging the complexities of their changed circumstances.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 4
In which Pamela, with tender affection and dutiful respect, conveys to her beloved parents the generous arrangements kindly made for their comfort and honour by her husband, who wishes to entrust them with the management of his estate, thereby bestowing ease and dignity upon their industrious hearts. She further offers considerate counsel regarding the presence of relatives in their household, reflecting upon the delicate balance of kindness, merit, and the world's judgement with a disposition both prudent and compassionate.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 3
In which Pamela conveys the gracious and generous sentiments of her beloved towards her worthy parents, encouraging them to rejoice without restraint and to view their happiness as a just reward for their virtue. She expresses her overflowing gratitude and joy with a tender humility, reflecting on the blessings bestowed upon her and her family, and resolves to continue sharing these heartfelt communications with those she holds dear.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 2
In which a humble but grateful pair of parents express their astonishment and joy at the blessings bestowed upon them through their daughter’s new estate, resolving to honour their benefactor by honourable stewardship and honest dealings. With a heart full of thanks and eyes wet with emotion, the father contemplates the happiness of their happy lot while seeking his daughter's counsel on managing family relations with discretion and affection.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Letter 1
In which the dear Pamela writes home to her cherished parents, expressing the joy and gratitude inspired by their arrival at a modest yet thoughtfully improved abode, furnished and prepared through the magnanimous kindness of a gentleman who honours both her and her family with gentle respect. She describes the intended simplicity and comfort of their quarters, and reflects with humble gladness on the happiness and virtue that attend them in this season of quiet domestic felicity.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 2 Authors Original Preface to Volume 2
In which the Editor reflects upon the unexpected success of the first part of Pamela and humbly introduces the continuing letters that shall illuminate her virtues in the various roles she now inhabits as wife, friend, and beneficent mistress. He further addresses the balance of truth and discretion employed in the narrative, whilst expressing gratitude for the public’s enduring favour and clarifying the imagined veil over certain particulars.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 33
In which Pamela and her dear master attend church amidst the scrutinising eyes of their neighbours, gaining admiration for her modest grace and his generous regard, while she carefully tends to the poor and fostered kindness from the local gentry; and in the quietude of a garden summer-house, he reveals his thoughtful provisions for her future well-being, tenderly asking her to honour his one request, as their shared felicity deepens with gentle poetry and affectionate discourse. The narrative closes with a warm gathering of friends, the joyous reception of Pamela’s parents, and a series of moral reflections that extol th...
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 31
In which the humble yet gracious Pamela receives the generous bounty of her new estate and the affectionate attentions of her master, whose kindness extends not only to her but to the faithful servants and neighbours around them. As she navigates the pleasures and duties of her elevated station with humility and gratitude, she cherishes the blessings of her happy lot whilst preparing to meet her acquaintances and future obligations with pious thankfulness and prudent care.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 30
In which the gentle Pamela finds herself tenderly welcomed back to a familiar household now transformed by her marriage, where the kindness of friends and servants alike reflects the goodwill surrounding her new station. She reflects with humble gratitude on the mercies that have brought her to this joyful place, and the bonds of affection that promise to sustain her through the days ahead.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 32
In which the company at dinner exchanges cordial compliments and reflections on the happiness of marriage, whilst I am introduced to a matter of tender interest involving a dear little niece who is kept from knowing her true parentage. This leads to a moving revelation of past sorrow and honourable resolutions, as my master recounts the tale of a gentlewoman who, burdened by calamity, sought happiness abroad, and whose child's welfare he endeavours to secure with dutiful affection.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 29
In which the diligent and reflective Pamela contemplates the virtues and trials incumbent upon a wife, considering with some trepidation the demanding temper of her husband and the delicate balance of love, duty, and forbearance required. She finds unexpected sympathy and kindness from Lady Davers, who, moved by Pamela’s frankness and fortitude, expresses a rising affection and curiosity to understand the singular story that has so proved and preserved Pamela’s honour.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 28
In which the gentleman imparts thoughtful reflections to Pamela on the temperaments and trials of married life, advising her on conduct that might best preserve their mutual affection and harmony. He further contemplates the miseducation of youth and its unhappy consequences in matrimony, setting forth expectations and rules intended to guard their union against the common ills of discord and misunderstanding.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 27
In which a misunderstanding between relatives leads to angry words and heartfelt pleas for forgiveness, revealing the complex interplay of affection, pride, and resentment that colours their relations. The household, after a period of tension, is restored to harmony by mutual concessions and kind reflections, as Pamela contemplates the new status her marriage imparts and the challenges it may yet bring.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 26d
In which we observe the poignant encounter between the newlywed couple and the lady of the house, whose pride and resentment lead to sharp disputes and uneasy attempts at reconciliation, all within the confines of a family estate disturbed by conflicting sentiments. Herein lies a delicate examination of birth, rank, and virtue, as heartfelt declarations and reproaches intermingle, revealing the complexities of honour, affection, and social expectation.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 26c
In which Pamela is warmly received by a company of kind neighbours, who commend her virtue and her husband's generous esteem, even as Lady Davers—the master's fiery sister—creates a turbulent scene through her harsh suspicions and disdain. Amidst gentle discourse and card games, the household is unsettled by Lady Davers's passionate outbursts and estrangement, while Pamela, supported by her husband’s tender protection, strives to maintain her dignity and peace within this stormy family discord.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 26b
In which the young and virtuous Pamela endures a trying and tumultuous encounter with Lady Davers, whose scorn and suspicion lead to bitter words and confinement, from which Pamela hastily escapes with the aid of loyal servants. Her steadfastness and innocence shine through as she seeks consolation with her master and kind friends, who receive her with sympathy and growing concern.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 26a
In which the amiable Mr. B—— imparts to Pamela sage counsel on hospitality and temper, encouraging her to foster harmony and cheer even amidst unexpected guests and trifling accidents, while Pamela reflects on the graciousness and trials of her new station. Yet, calm is soon disturbed by the unwelcome arrival of Lady Davers and her retinue, whose sneers and sharp words cast a shadow over Pamela’s peace, and who insists on prying into her affairs with an unbecoming rudeness that tests Pamela’s equanimity and virtue in this trying encounter.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 26
In which Pamela’s newlywed life unfolds with affectionate kindness and generous provision from her husband, who endeavours to reconcile differences, restore old servants, and ensure their happiness and propriety in all respects. Together they embrace duties and pleasures of their altered state with gratitude, regularity, and heartfelt resolutions, aspiring alike to virtuous love and gracious hospitality.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 25
In which the dear Pamela, overwhelmed with a generous bounty beyond her merit, is tenderly prepared by her kind protector for their private nuptials amidst the delicate struggles of modesty and gratitude, whilst she reflects upon the profound change in her fortunes with a heart both bashful and hopeful. They encounter the awkwardness of unexpected guests and familial opposition, yet their mutual vows and affectionate assurances promise a future grounded in virtue and equality, as Pamela embraces her new station with humble resolve and earnest devotion.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 24
In which the happy arrangement of a forthcoming union is tenderly contemplated amid the prudent observances of propriety and heartfelt reflections on duty, honour, and the weighty solemnity that such a change of condition inevitably brings; and where kindness, gentle discourse, and the management of sundry delicate relationships mark the days that lead to the anticipated marriage, with anxieties and hopes delicately intertwined.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 23
In which the fortunate Pamela finds herself reconciled to an old acquaintance through the gracious interposition of her master, whose honourable intentions and generous heart shine forth in a manner most pleasing to all present. Amidst the companionship of esteemed friends and family, the society assembles for divine worship in a humble chapel, where heartfelt devotions and thoughtful discourse on virtue and grace inspire a refreshing spirit of harmony and piety.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 22
In which a tender reunion unfolds as the long-absent father of our heroine arrives at Sir Simon’s house, anxious yet hopeful to behold his daughter and assured of her virtue by her master’s kind assurances. The company kindly embraces the honest old man, and amid gentle festivities and heartfelt exchanges, plans are thoughtfully laid for forthcoming nuptials and the restoration of a humble chapel as a fitting sanctuary for their solemnisation.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 21
In which the gentle narrative unfolds with Pamela expressing her gratitude for the gentleman's kindness and managing a delicate encounter with Mr. Williams, whilst navigating the social attentions of the local gentry with modest grace. The scene culminates in a gathering where Pamela's virtues and accomplishments earn her warm regard, even as her heart is touched by a sudden and mysterious visitation that stirs both joy and trembling apprehension.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 20
In which Pamela finds herself the grateful recipient of her master’s sincere and generous affection, her heart swelling with humble joy and a sense of elevated prospects, as they converse tenderly of impending nuptials and the delicate preparations thereof. She recounts with thankfulness the overcoming of past trials, the reconciliation with those once opposed, and the hopeful anticipation of a future marked by honour, humility, and the gracious favour of Providence.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 19
In which a letter from a proud lady incites reflections on the vanity of worldly rank and the true worth of humility, setting the stage for a tender conversation filled with honest confessions and noble intentions. The discourse reveals mutual fears, generous hopes, and plans for future conduct, as the characters navigate the delicate balance between affection, honour, and the judgment of society.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 18
In which the gentle Pamela finds herself torn by the conflicting tides of affection and caution as she receives heartfelt letters from her master, whose illness and remorse invite her return despite past hardships. Her tender heart debates with prudence the sincerity of his changed conduct, even as she prepares to journey back to his house, hoping that virtue and trust will bring about a happy resolution.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 16
In which the heroine, having her private writings seized by a relentless housekeeper and confronted by her master, bravely reveals the intimate contents of her letters and journals that chronicle her trials and steadfast heart amid oppression. A spirited and delicate dialogue ensues, wherein her master’s curiosity and impatience meet her modest resistance and wit, painting a tender yet complex portrait of their uneasy rapport.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 17
In which our gentle heroine continues her melancholy scribblings under close observation, revealing the depths of her sincere virtue and the perilous circumstances in which she is placed; the complex dispositions of her master emerge with a mixture of tender kindness and sudden wrath, leading to her abrupt departure and uncertain journey homeward. Amidst this perplexing interplay of kindness and harshness, a letter arrives that kindles in her a troubled affection, stirring her heart with hopes and doubts as she contemplates the strange vicissitudes of fortune and feeling.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 14
In which the poor and distressed Pamela beseeches her master with all the earnestness of a sincere and virtuous heart, striving to preserve her innocence amidst the pressures and dark designs that threaten her honour. She endures the cruel contrivances and harsh keepings of her keeper, Mrs. Jewkes, whilst struggling with the overwhelming trials that test both her spirit and conscience in this place of confinement.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 13
In which the poor Pamela, confined and subjected to the scornful and cruel devices of Mrs. Jewkes and her master, withstands the harshness of enforced captivity and the complicated intrigues that surround her honour and fate. She replies with resolute virtue and thoughtful dignity to the unwelcome and ignoble proposals laid before her, maintaining her fidelity to honesty and innocence despite the heavy trials she endures.
Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded Volume 1 Letter 15
In which Pamela endures the continued and complex attentions of her master, who vacillates between tenderness and troubling advances, whilst she strives to preserve her virtue amidst the strains of confinement and suspicion. She uncovers a sinister scheme devised to betray her, prompting grave reflections on trust and the perilous nature of her situation.