# Letter 482: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mr. Belford writes to Lovelace informing him of Clarissa's death and her will, which forbids Lovelace from seeing her. He notes Lovelace's distressed state and mentions that three letters arrived too late for Clarissa, who had transcended worldly concerns.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa's transcendence of worldly concerns and her noble resignation reflect redemption through suffering.

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

The late arrival of letters contrasts the appearance of hope with the reality of Clarissa's death.

## Character check-ins

### John Belford

Writes to Lovelace about Clarissa's death and will, dispatching Joel with a letter.

### Robert Lovelace

Reported to be in a distressed state of mind; advised not to come to Clarissa.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Deceased; her will forbids Lovelace from seeing her; she had risen above worldly concerns.

### James Tourville

Reports on Lovelace's condition.

### Anna Howe

Mentioned as the object of Clarissa's fervent love, which gave way to higher devotions.

## Key lines

> I have no opportunity to write at length, having necessary orders to give on the melancholy occasion.

I cannot write much because I must give instructions for the sad event.

_Belford is occupied with funeral arrangements._

> The lady in her will desires you may not see her.

Clarissa's will explicitly asks that you not view her body.

_Clarissa's final wish excludes Lovelace._

> How would this poor lady have rejoiced to receive them!⁠—And yet, if she had, she would not have been enabled to say, as she nobly did, That God would not let her depend for comfort upon any but Himself.

She would have been overjoyed to get those letters, but receiving them would have prevented her from declaring that God alone was her comfort.

_Clarissa's spiritual transcendence is highlighted._

## Links

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