Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 454: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained
Belford writes to Lovelace, reporting that Clarissa is alive but gravely ill, serene and clear-minded, though unlikely to survive.
What happens
Belford writes to Lovelace, reporting that Clarissa is alive but gravely ill, serene and clear-minded, though unlikely to survive. She has completed and sealed her last will, and is writing to Miss Howe. Belford warns that any attempt by Lovelace to see her would hasten her death.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Redemption
Clarissa's serene acceptance of her impending death and her completion of the will suggest a redemptive peace after prolonged suffering.
Friendship and Loyalty
Belford's compassionate report and Miss Howe's supportive letter demonstrate steadfast loyalty to Clarissa in her final days.
Characters to notice
- John Belford
Writes to Lovelace with news of Clarissa's condition and her completed will.
- Clarissa Harlowe
Alive but very weak; has finished and sealed her will; writing to Miss Howe.
- Robert Lovelace
Recipient of Belford's letter; Belford notes some humanity in him but warns against seeking Clarissa.
- Anna Howe
Sent a letter to Clarissa with news of Colonel Morden's support and family concessions.
- Colonel Morden
Engaged in Clarissa's favor with her family; Miss Howe has clarified matters to prevent misapprehensions.
Key passages
“The lady is alive, and serene, and calm, and has all her noble intellects clear and strong: but nineteen will not however save her.”
Clarissa is alive, peaceful, and mentally sharp, but her youth cannot prevent her death.
Belford conveys the tragic inevitability of Clarissa's decline despite her clarity and composure.
“As to thy seeing her, I believe the least hint of that sort, now, would cut off some hours of her life.”
Any suggestion of you visiting her would likely shorten her remaining time.
Belford warns Lovelace that his presence would be fatal to Clarissa.
“What has contributed to her serenity, it seems, is, that taking the alarm her fits gave her, she has entirely finished, and signed and sealed, her last will.”
Her calmness comes from having completed and signed her will after being frightened by her seizures.
Clarissa's peace of mind is linked to finalizing her testamentary affairs.