# Letter 462: Mr. Belford, to William Morden, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mr. Belford writes to Colonel Morden to inform him that Clarissa Harlowe is near death and urges him to come to London immediately if he wishes to see her alive. Belford explains that he writes without Clarissa's knowledge, believing that Morden's efforts to reconcile her family may now be in vain.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa's impending death is framed as the culmination of her suffering, with Belford emphasizing her merit and the futility of family reconciliation.

## Character check-ins

### John Belford

Writes to Colonel Morden to report Clarissa's critical condition.

### Colonel Morden

Addressed by Belford; is attempting to reconcile Clarissa's family to her.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Reported to be near death, with only a few days left to live.

## Key lines

> I understand you are employing your good offices with the parents of Miss Clarissa Harlowe, and other relations, to reconcile them to the most meritorious daughter and kinswoman that ever family had to boast of.

I hear you are trying to persuade Clarissa's parents and relatives to forgive her and accept her back into the family.

_Belford acknowledges Morden's efforts at reconciliation._

> we here have too much reason to think all your solicitudes on this head will be unnecessary: for it is the opinion of everyone who has the honour of being admitted to her presence, that she cannot lie over three days

We believe your efforts may be pointless because everyone who sees her thinks she will die within three days.

_Belford conveys the urgency of Clarissa's condition._

## Links

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