# Letter 404: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Anna Howe writes a brief, hurried letter to Clarissa, expressing her distress over Clarissa's choice of Mr. Belford as executor, though she agrees that none of Clarissa's relations should be named. She mentions that Mr. Hickman speaks well of Belford but dismisses his judgment. Anna sends the letter via a friend of her aunt Harman and eagerly awaits news of Clarissa's improved health.

## Themes in this chapter

### Friendship and Loyalty

Anna's deep concern for Clarissa's health and her strong opinion on the executor choice reflect her loyalty and protective friendship.

## Character check-ins

### Anna Howe

Writes a hurried letter expressing concern and affection for Clarissa.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Recipient of the letter; her health and choice of executor are discussed.

### John Belford

Mentioned as Clarissa's chosen executor, which distresses Anna.

### Mr. Hickman

Speaks well of Belford, though Anna dismisses his penetration.

## Key lines

> I cannot tell how to bear the sound of that Mr. Belford for your executor, cogent as your reasons for that measure are: and yet I am firmly of opinion, that none of your relations should be named for the trust.

I am very upset that you have chosen Mr. Belford as your executor, even though I understand your reasons; still, I agree that none of your family should be given that role.

_Anna expresses her emotional conflict over Clarissa's decision while affirming her agreement that family should be excluded._

> Mr. Hickman, indeed, speaks very handsomely of Mr. Belford. But he, poor man! has not much penetration.—If he had, he would hardly think so well of me as he does.

Mr. Hickman speaks well of Belford, but he lacks discernment—if he were more perceptive, he wouldn't think so highly of me either.

_Anna dismisses Hickman's judgment with self-deprecating humor, implying her own flaws._

## Links

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