Clarissa · Chapter
Letter 526: Mr. Belford, to Lord M. explained
Belford writes to Lord M.
What happens
Belford writes to Lord M. detailing his final meetings with Lovelace and Colonel Morden. Lovelace is in high spirits, planning his departure for Italy, while Belford tries to keep him and Morden apart. Lovelace insists on a copy of Clarissa's will and demands the return of his letters, which Belford refuses. Belford also meets with Morden, who is solemn and intends to settle his affairs before leaving for Italy, expressing that if he met Lovelace, he might not be answerable for the consequences.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
Belford's efforts to keep Lovelace and Morden apart, and Lovelace's reconciliation with his friends, highlight the complexities of loyalty and obligation.
Suffering and Redemption
Lovelace's refusal to confront his past actions and Belford's role as executor of Clarissa's will reflect ongoing themes of guilt and moral reckoning.
Characters to notice
- John Belford
Narrator and executor of Clarissa's will; mediates between Lovelace and Morden, refuses to return Lovelace's letters.
- Robert Lovelace
Gay and lively, planning his departure for Italy; insists on a copy of Clarissa's will and the return of his letters.
- Colonel Morden
Solemn, settling his affairs before going to Italy; expresses that meeting Lovelace could have dangerous consequences.
- Richard Mowbray
Dines with Lovelace and Belford; becomes noisy with wine and is carried off.
- James Tourville
Dines with Lovelace and Belford; becomes noisy with wine and is carried off.
- Mr. Doleman
Visits to take leave of Lovelace, leaves with his nephew by noon.
Key passages
“I wish Mr. Lovelace could have been prevailed upon to take any other tour, than that of France and Italy.”
Belford wishes Lovelace would choose a different destination than France and Italy.
Belford expresses concern about Lovelace's travel plans.
“He has some accounts to settle with his banker; which, he says, will be adjusted tomorrow; and on Thursday he proposes to go down again, to take leave of his friends; and then intends to set out directly for Italy.”
Morden plans to settle his financial accounts, visit his friends, and then depart for Italy.
Morden outlines his itinerary before leaving England.
“I never saw him more gay, lively, and handsome.”
Belford observes that Lovelace appears exceptionally cheerful and attractive.
Belford notes Lovelace's improved mood and appearance.