# Letter 509: Mr. Belford, to the Right Hon. Lord M. explained — Clarissa

> Chapter companion for Clarissa by Samuel Richardson.

## What happens

Mr. Belford writes to Lord M. expressing concern that the affair between Mr. Lovelace and the late Miss Clarissa Harlowe may lead to further trouble, despite her dying wishes. He urges that Lovelace be sent abroad until the scandal subsides, suggesting health as a pretext. Belford also transcribes a paragraph from Clarissa's will that gratefully mentions Lord M. and his family regarding bequeathed rings.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Redemption

Clarissa's dying injunctions and her will's gracious tone reflect her redemptive suffering and forgiveness.

### Class and Social Reputation

Belford's concern about the affair's consequences and the proposal for Lovelace to go abroad highlight the importance of managing social scandal.

## Character check-ins

### John Belford

Writes to Lord M. as executor of Clarissa's will, urging Lovelace's departure abroad.

### Lord M.

Recipient of the letter; mentioned in Clarissa's will with gratitude.

### Robert Lovelace

Subject of Belford's concern; recovering but urged to go abroad.

### Clarissa Harlowe

Deceased; her will includes a grateful mention of Lord M. and his family.

### Richard Mowbray

Mentioned as a possible companion for Lovelace abroad.

## Key lines

> I am very apprehensive that the affair between Mr. Lovelace and the late excellent Miss Clarissa Harlowe will be attended with farther bad consequences, notwithstanding her dying injunctions to the contrary.

Belford fears that the scandal involving Lovelace and the deceased Clarissa Harlowe may lead to more trouble, even though she asked for peace.

_Belford expresses his worry about ongoing repercussions despite Clarissa's wishes._

> I would, therefore, humbly propose that your Lordship, and his other relations, will forward the purpose your kinsman lately had to go abroad; where I hope he will stay till all is blown over.

Belford suggests that Lord M. and the family encourage Lovelace to follow through with his plan to travel abroad until the scandal fades.

_Belford advises sending Lovelace away to avoid further conflict._

## Links

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