Clarissa · Character

John Belford

Lovelace's rakish correspondent and fellow libertine, who slowly becomes the one man willing to speak plainly on Clarissa's behalf.

major

Also known as Mr. Belford, Belford, Jack Belford, J. Belford, John Belford

First appearance: Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.

As a major figure in Clarissa, John Belford is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and instructs him to prepare for action.

In the storyLetter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.Open this moment free

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Belford begins as Lovelace's audience and accomplice in letters, a man of the same set and the same appetites. But as Clarissa's suffering becomes undeniable, he turns into her advocate — visiting her lodgings, negotiating with her cousin Colonel Morden, and bearing witness when her own family will not. His shift from confidant to conscience is one of the novel's quietest and most consequential movements.

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See John Belford in Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.

Character Web

50 connections

A slice of how John Belford sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Friendship
Other

Character groups

Major characters and antagonists
Minor characters and background figures
Protagonist

+45 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Clarissa, desp…

Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.

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Relationships

Robert Lovelace
friendship · ambivalent
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral… How this plays out →
Clarissa Harlowe
friendship · positive
Robert Lovelace
friendship · ambivalent
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral… How this plays out →
Robert Lovelace
friendship · ambivalent
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral… How this plays out →
Clarissa Harlowe
friendship · positive
Clarissa Harlowe
friendship · positive

Robert Lovelace
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral counterweight to Lovelace's schemes.
Clarissa Harlowe
Belford becomes a sympathetic friend to Clarissa, eventually helping her and condemning Lovelace's actions.
Robert Lovelace
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral counterweight to Lovelace's schemes.
Robert Lovelace
Belford is Lovelace's closest friend and confidant, though he often acts as a moral counterweight to Lovelace's schemes.
Clarissa Harlowe
Belford becomes a sympathetic friend to Clarissa, eventually helping her and condemning Lovelace's actions.
Clarissa Harlowe
Belford becomes a sympathetic friend to Clarissa, eventually helping her and condemning Lovelace's actions.

Relationship notes

How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.

See John Belford in Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.

In the story

John Belford appears across 266 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and instructs him to prepare for action.
Letter 34: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace instructs him to come in disguise and warns him not to seduce the innocent Rosebud.
Letter 35: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides his plots and intentions to him.
Letter 97: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, confidant.
Letter 99: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a confidant and friend.
Letter 103: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace's confidant.
Letter 104: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as a confidant in his schemes.
Letter 105: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace instructs him to write in cipher and discusses his character.
Letter 106: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and asks for help recalling praiseworthy deeds.
Letter 108: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a confidant and critic.
Letter 109: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, serving as his confidant and audience for his schemes.
Letter 110: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as 'Jack'.
Letter 115: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as 'Jack' and confidant to his schemes.
Letter 117: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, often criticized by Lovelace for his lack of understanding.
Letter 118: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and shares his manipulative thoughts.
Letter 127: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides his schemes and frustrations to him.
Letter 131: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as a confidant and fellow rake.
Letter 138: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, serving as confidant for his schemes and reflections.
Letter 143: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes a lengthy letter to Lovelace, pleading for Clarissa's sake and Lovelace's own, expressing true friendship and concern.
Letter 152: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace mocks his moralizing advice about marriage and temptation.
Letter 153: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace addresses him directly.
Letter 154: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, serving as his confidant and the audience for his boasts and schemes.
Letter 158: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace confides his schemes and invites him to meet Clarissa.
Letter 159: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and shares his plans.
Letter 161: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Described as good-natured, well-read, and the most tolerable of the group; he pays Clarissa a compliment that embarrasses her.
Letter 167: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace informs him that Clarissa dislikes him and his companions, and that his thousand pounds is safe.
Letter 168: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace shares his thoughts on the prohibition and its effects.
Letter 169: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, pleading for Clarissa's safety and urging marriage.
Letter 170: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace rebukes him for moralizing and suspects he corresponds with Lord M.
Letter 171: Mr. Lovelace
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses his objections and commands his conviction.
Letter 172: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes a passionate letter imploring Lovelace to abandon his plans against Clarissa, and reports his uncle's imminent death.
Letter 174: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Recipient of Lovelace's letters detailing his schemes and justifications.
Letter 175: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; confidant to whom Lovelace vents his frustrations.
Letter 187: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letters, which reveal Lovelace's true thoughts and schemes regarding Clarissa.
Letter 189: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes a passionate letter urging Lovelace to act honorably toward Clarissa, reflecting his own moral awakening.
Letter 190: Lord M. to John Belford, Esq.
Receives Lord M.'s letter and is entreated to use his influence over Lovelace.
Letter 191: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace criticizes his 'wambling nonsense' and concern for his dying uncle.
Letter 192: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, refusing to reply to his last letter and instead reflecting on Belton's tragic situation and the moral lessons of libertinism.
Letter 193: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace interprets Belford's earlier advice as supportive of his pursuit.
Letter 194: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, being updated on the situation.
Letter 198: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and dismisses his moralizing.
Letter 199: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; confidant to whom Lovelace vents his anger and shares his schemes.
Letter 200: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Addressee of Lovelace's letter within the chapter; Lovelace confides his intentions and frustrations to him.
Letter 201: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly.
Letter 202: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, to whom Lovelace confesses his inner turmoil.
Letter 203: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides in him about the plot and his manipulations.
Letter 204: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter.
Letter 205: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace sends him Lord M.'s letter for perusal.
Letter 207: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, warned not to write in Clarissa's favor.
Letter 208: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and anticipates his objections.
Letter 209: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as 'general' and confides his schemes.
Letter 210: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace discusses their correspondence and his schemes.
Letter 213: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Lovelace mentions that Belton needs him.
Letter 214: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly throughout.
Letter 215: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, cautioned not to judge his devices by parts.
Letter 216: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace's confidant.
Letter 217: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's confession about the forged reconciliation plot.
Letter 218: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and shares his inner thoughts.
Letter 219: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides in him about his schemes and reflections.
Letter 220: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace's confidant.
Letter 221: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace shares his schemes and reflections.
Letter 222: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes a passionate letter to Lovelace, advocating for Clarissa and reflecting on his own moral awakening.
Letter 223: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace responds to Belford's criticisms of his schemes.
Letter 224: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter, whose previous arguments nearly dissuaded Lovelace.
Letter 225: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and justifies his actions to him.
Letter 226: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; not directly present but addressed throughout.
Letter 227: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace references Belford's opinions on Clarissa's superiority.
Letter 228: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace anticipates Belford's gloating over his misfortune.
Letter 229: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace encloses Anna's letter for Belford to read and return.
Letter 231: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter detailing his triumph and plans.
Letter 232: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly throughout the narrative.
Letter 233: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly as 'Jack' and included in the narrative.
Letter 234: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, confidant.
Letter 235: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly throughout the narrative.
Letter 237: Mr. Lovelace
The recipient of the letter, addressed directly by Lovelace as 'Jack'.
Letter 239: Mr. Lovelace
Addressee of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace boasts to him of his schemes.
Letter 240: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as 'Jack.'
Letter 241: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and spares him from immediate duties.
Letter 244: Mr. Lovelace
Referenced by Lovelace as having urged similar pleas as Tomlinson; Lovelace compares Tomlinson's compunction to Belford's own sensibilities.
Letter 245: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace writes to him with candid accounts of his schemes.
Letter 246: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a fellow rake and confidant.
Letter 247: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; has just attended his dying uncle and is now an heir; Lovelace mocks his feigned grief.
Letter 248: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, confidant to his schemes and frustrations.
Letter 249: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, whose 'whining arguments' in Clarissa's favor are acknowledged by Lovelace.
Letter 250: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed directly as 'Belford'.
Letter 252: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly, seeking his complicity.
Letter 253: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter, confidant and correspondent.
Letter 254: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed familiarly as 'Jack'.
Letter 255: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter detailing the plot.
Letter 256: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace writes to him in a lively, present-tense style.
Letter 257: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter.
Letter 258: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace expressing horror and moral outrage at the rape of Clarissa; offers his inheritance to Lovelace if he will marry her.
Letter 259: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of severity and using Lovelace's own confessions against him.
Letter 260: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace anticipates his moral reproaches and demands secrecy.
Letter 261: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and expects him to join the planned frolic.
Letter 263: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace suspects him of revealing secrets to Clarissa and demands reassurance.
Letter 264: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as 'Jack' throughout.
Letter 265: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Lovelace writes to Belford, sharing his plans and reflections on the potential inheritance.
Letter 266: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace fears treachery from him and seeks his pity.
Letter 267: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly, referencing their shared experiences.
Letter 268: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a confidant and advocate for Clarissa.
Letter 269: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace addresses him directly, defending his behavior.
Letter 270: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly throughout.
Letter 271: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter, addressed as 'thou' throughout.
Letter 272: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides his schemes to him.
Letter 273: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace recounts his schemes to him.
Letter 274: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides in him.
Letter 275: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace assumes he is recovering and addresses him directly.
Letter 276: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace dismisses his earlier suspicions and mocks his pity.
Letter 277: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him as a friend and confidant.
Letter 278: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace confides in him about his plans and frustrations.
Letter 279: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace anticipates his curses and moral objections.
Letter 280: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, serving as his confidant.
Letter 284: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Lovelace has asked Belford to wait upon Clarissa to learn her decision about the chosen day.
Letter 285: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace implores him to visit Clarissa and act as his intermediary to obtain her consent to marry.
Letter 286: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, refusing to engage in the proposed office until assured of Lovelace's honorable intentions.
Letter 287: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by Lovelace; has threatened to act as a guarantee for Lovelace's promises, prompting Lovelace's defensive and defiant response.
Letter 288: Mr. Lovelace, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Mentioned as unable to attend Clarissa due to urgent affairs.
Letter 291: To Robert Lovelace, Esq.
One of the gentlemen sent for after the escape.
Letter 292: Mr. Mowbray, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Described as calm and methodical, taking minutes of the examinations like a justice.
Letter 293: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, recounts Clarissa's escape, and admonishes Lovelace.
Letter 294: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace asks him to find Clarissa and proposes marriage if Belford can persuade her.
Letter 321: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace responds to his complaints about silence and lack of correspondence.
Letter 322: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of Lovelace's letter, which Lovelace addresses directly, responding to Belford's request for entertaining news.
Letter 325: Mr. Lovelace
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; mentioned as someone Lovelace wrote to for help in pressing Clarissa.
Letter 326: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace threatens him to keep secrets.
Letter 330: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Urgently summoned to free Clarissa and act as Lovelace's intermediary.
Letter 332: Miss Montague, to Miss Howe
Mentioned as Lovelace's friend and Clarissa's advocate; his letter caused Lovelace further torment.
Letter 333: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, investigates the arrest, and plans to visit Clarissa to set her at liberty.
Letter 334: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Visits Clarissa, describes the prison's horrors, curses Mrs. Sinclair, and retrieves letters from her lodgings.
Letter 335: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's angry letter, blamed for causing intense suffering through his abrupt communication.
Letter 336: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Acts as intermediary, arranging Clarissa's removal, retrieving her belongings, and defending Lovelace's innocence regarding the arrest.
Letter 337: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, mocking his suffering and insisting on Clarissa's freedom from his visits.
Letter 338: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Visits Clarissa, reports on her health, and acts as intermediary between her and Lovelace.
Letter 339: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Belford visits Clarissa, attempts to plead Lovelace's case, and reads parts of Lovelace's letter to her. He feels reverence for Clarissa and guilt for not doing more to protect her.
Letter 340: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Arranges for Dr. H. to visit Clarissa, secretly provides funds to purchase her dress, and gives a discreet account of her story to the physicians.
Letter 341: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Lovelace criticizes him for sharing his letter with Clarissa and for his views on her condition.
Letter 343: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Mentioned as Lovelace's intimate companion who has become Clarissa's warm friend and keeps Lovelace away.
Letter 344: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Belford writes to Lovelace, detailing Belton's decline and reflecting on the moral state of their libertine circle.
Letter 345: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace recounting Clarissa's mistrust and the sale of her lace to cover debts.
Letter 346: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly throughout.
Letter 347: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by Lovelace; accused of reformation and criticized for his grim letter about their friends' fates.
Letter 348: Mr. Belford, to Mr. Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Belford visits Clarissa, reports her condition and words to Lovelace, and condemns Lovelace's actions while pleading for forgiveness on his behalf.
Letter 349: Mr. Belford
Offers Clarissa his services and a bank note, which she refuses; transcribes her speech.
Letter 350: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Lovelace addresses him directly, criticizing his hatred and his awkward manner of delivering a bank note to Clarissa.
Letter 359: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Mentioned as a good-natured and humane man who censures Lovelace and assures Clarissa of his innocence regarding the arrest.
Letter 362: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Mrs. Norton
Released Clarissa from the arrest; mentioned as part of the events.
Letter 364: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace from Edgware; reflects on Clarissa's virtue, Belton's misery, and his own growing reformation; shares a meditation and praises the Bible.
Letter 365: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Reports on Clarissa's condition, pleads for Lovelace, and arranges a breakfast visit.
Letter 366: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Visits Clarissa at breakfast; reports on Hickman's visit and Clarissa's condition; reflects on the superiority of friendship over libertinism.
Letter 370: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; criticized by Lovelace for his awkward advocacy and pessimistic views on Clarissa's recovery.
Letter 371: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace addresses him directly and references his previous letters.
Letter 383: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace urges him to use his eloquence to persuade Clarissa and offers assistance in his affairs.
Letter 385: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, reports on Clarissa's declining health, and insists Lovelace keep his promise not to molest her.
Letter 387: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Recipient of Clarissa's letter; decides to oblige her request for extracts from Lovelace's letters.
Letter 388: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Clarissa, fulfilling her request to share Lovelace's letters and pleading for his friend's redemption.
Letter 389: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by Clarissa; she thanks him for his communications and asks him to undertake the role of executor and defender of her character.
Letter 390: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Accepts the role of executor for Clarissa's will, pledging fidelity and literal performance of her instructions.
Letter 391: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Delivers extracts of Lovelace's letters to Clarissa, omitting offensive parts; accepts role as Clarissa's executor; offers to mediate with her family.
Letter 395: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Lovelace rebukes him for his reformist sympathies and for agreeing to transcribe private letters to Clarissa.
Letter 396: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace rebukes him for delivering private extracts to Clarissa.
Letter 399: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, recounting his actions at Belton's house and his visits to Clarissa.
Letter 400: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, reporting on Clarissa's situation and the generosity of Lord M.'s family.
Letter 404: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Mentioned as Clarissa's chosen executor, which distresses Anna.
Letter 405: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Transcribed passages from Lovelace's letters for Clarissa, which she encloses for Anna's perusal under strict confidence.
Letter 410: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of the letter; Lovelace scolds him for his reflections and demands he burn his letters.
Letter 411: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, expressing concern and regret, and reports Clarissa's merciful response.
Letter 412: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace thanks him for his sober conclusion and asks for particulars about Clarissa.
Letter 413: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, expressing joy at his recovery and moral improvement, and recounts his conversation with Clarissa about Lovelace's letter.
Letter 414: Mr. Belford, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Writes to Clarissa to warn her of Lovelace's planned visit, expresses veneration and concern for her health, and mentions his duty to attend dying Mr. Belton.
Letter 415: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; criticized by Lovelace for sharing extracts of his letters with Clarissa.
Letter 416: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; mentioned as having visited a sick friend and written about Clarissa's illness.
Letter 417: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter.
Letter 418: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace mentions Belford's good opinion of Mrs. Lovick and sends him a copy of Clarissa's meditation.
Letter 419: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, reproaches Lovelace for his behavior, and describes Belton's deathbed agony.
Letter 420: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, scolds his servant, and urges Lovelace to give up thoughts of seeing Clarissa.
Letter 421: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace urges him to attend Clarissa and mentions Belford's preaching to the dying Belton.
Letter 422: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace responds to his account of Belton's death.
Letter 423: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; criticized by Lovelace for his 'creeping style' with servants.
Letter 424: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, attending Belton in his final hours and reflecting on mortality and repentance.
Letter 425: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; his own letter about Belton's death is discussed.
Letter 426: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace about Belton's will and his visit to Clarissa, whom he finds very weak but spiritually composed.
Letter 433: Miss Cl. Harlowe, to Mrs. Judith Norton
His visits are mentioned as a possible source of scandal; Clarissa defends them.
Letter 434: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Approved by Anna for the office Clarissa has appointed him to.
Letter 439: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace chides him for not writing and questions his involvement in the reconciliation secret.
Letter 440: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace about Belton's funeral and his visit to Clarissa, whom he finds near death. He promises to keep Lovelace from disturbing her.
Letter 441: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Reports the conversation with Clarissa and Dr. H., records her spiritual reflections, and withholds them from Lovelace.
Letter 443: Mr. Lovelace
Addressee of Lovelace's letter; referred to as 'thee' and 'Jack'.
Letter 444: Mr. Brand, to John Harlowe, Esq.
Described as a constant visitor to Clarissa, with a profligate character as to women, and Lovelace's intimate friend.
Letter 445: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, reflecting on the interview with Colonel Morden and investigating the source of Brand's scandalous letter.
Letter 446: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Visits Clarissa, reads parts of Lovelace's letters, shares Brand's letter, and admires Clarissa's angelic nature.
Letter 449: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace criticizes his spiritual aspirations and sarcastically compares him to a monument figure, but also approves his generosity to Belton's sister.
Letter 450: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Belford is deeply shocked by the sight of the coffin and struggles to reconcile his emotional reaction with Clarissa's rational arguments.
Letter 451: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, deeply affected by Clarissa's death preparations and contrasts her virtue with Lovelace's wickedness.
Letter 452: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, reporting on Clarissa's declining health and his role as her executor.
Letter 453: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of severe reflections and demands he keep Clarissa alive.
Letter 454: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace with news of Clarissa's condition and her completed will.
Letter 456: Miss Howe, to Miss Clarissa Harlowe
Mentioned as the person Clarissa appointed for an office, likely executor.
Letter 457: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, visits Clarissa twice, attends her at Smith's, and will receive instructions for her funeral.
Letter 458: Miss Clarissa Harlowe, to Miss Howe
Reported to Clarissa that Lovelace is concerned and self-accusing.
Letter 460: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Observes Clarissa's composure, receives her will and sealed letters, reads Colonel Morden's letter to her, and writes to Morden urging him to come quickly.
Letter 462: Mr. Belford, to William Morden, Esq.
Writes to Colonel Morden to report Clarissa's critical condition.
Letter 463: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
The recipient of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of being too cool and possibly in a plot with Clarissa.
Letter 464: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, attends Clarissa, and takes a room near her to record her final hours.
Letter 466: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Lovelace is angry that Belford lodges near Clarissa and demands news.
Letter 467: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter; mediates between Clarissa and Lovelace, urging Clarissa to forgive and Lovelace to stay away.
Letter 468: Mr. Brand, to Mr. John Walton
Mr. Brand mentions Mr. Belford's resentment and warns that he may be as passionate and fierce as Mr. Lovelace.
Letter 469: Mr. Brand, to John Harlowe, Esq.
Mentioned as having a libertine character, though Brand acknowledges his earlier report about Belford was accurate.
Letter 470: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by Lovelace; praised for his efforts to arrange a meeting with Clarissa and for conveying her forgiving message.
Letter 471: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Reports to Lovelace, attends Clarissa, deeply moved by her virtue and holiness.
Letter 472: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace accuses him of delighting in death and demands he send hopeful news.
Letter 473: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the scene, transcribes Clarissa's dictated letter, and comments on the contrast between her death and Belton's.
Letter 474: Mr. Belford
Narrates the chapter; arranges Morden's visit and updates Lovelace on Clarissa's condition.
Letter 475: Mr. Belford
Belford writes the letter, attends Clarissa with Colonel Morden, and is deeply affected by her state.
Letter 476: Mr. Belford
Narrates the letter, expresses deep grief for Clarissa, and reproaches Lovelace.
Letter 477: Mr. Belford, to Richard Mowbray, Esq.
Writes urgently to Mowbray, expressing concern for Lovelace's state and condemning libertinism.
Letter 478: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace both curses and implores him for news.
Letter 479: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes a brief, urgent letter advising Lovelace to leave.
Letter 480: Mr. Mowbray, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Mowbray requests the particulars of Clarissa's departure from him.
Letter 481: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes the account of Clarissa's death, deeply grieving and moved by her piety.
Letter 482: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace about Clarissa's death and will, dispatching Joel with a letter.
Letter 486: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the chapter; breaks open Clarissa's sealed packet, reads her letters, and begins executing her will.
Letter 487: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter, describes Mrs. Norton's grief, and arranges mourning preparations.
Letter 492: To John and Antony Harlowe, Esqrs
Delivers Clarissa's posthumous letters to Mrs. Hervey, Miss Howe, and Mrs. Norton.
Letter 493: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, reporting Mrs. Sinclair's accident and Sally Martin's visit; expresses satisfaction in making Lovelace feel guilt.
Letter 494: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the delivery of posthumous letters and the reactions of the families, and resolves to enforce Clarissa's will.
Letter 495: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Oversees the funeral preparations and locks Clarissa's chamber after the hearse departs.
Letter 496: Mr. Mowbray, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Mowbray criticizes his 'cursed reflections' and asks him to coax Lovelace and continue writing to Lord M.
Letter 497: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressee of the letter; Lovelace forbids him from interfering with Clarissa's will or remains.
Letter 498: Mr. Belford, to Richard Mowbray, Esq.
Writes to Mowbray, reflecting on Lovelace's frenzy and urging moral reform.
Letter 499: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Narrates the letter; visits the dying Sinclair and reflects on morality and reform.
Letter 501: Colonel Morden
Named as Clarissa's executor; the Harlowe family objects due to his friendship with Lovelace.
Letter 505: Mr. Belford, to William Morden, Esq.
The writer of the letter, reflecting on Clarissa's funeral and executing her will.
Letter 506: Mr. James Harlowe, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by James Harlowe; asked to relinquish the executorship.
Letter 507: Mr. Belford, to Mr. James Harlowe, Jun. Esq.
Executor of the will; tasked with copying and managing Clarissa's story.
The Will
Appointed executor; bequeathed 100 guineas and tasked with compiling Clarissa's story.
Letter 508: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Morden updates him on the will reading and his observations.
Letter 509: Mr. Belford, to the Right Hon. Lord M.
Writes to Lord M. as executor of Clarissa's will, urging Lovelace's departure abroad.
Letter 510: Miss Montague, to John Belford, Esq. M. Hall
Receives Miss Montague's letter and corresponds with Miss Howe, sharing letters and legacies; acts as executor of Clarissa's will.
Letter 511: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Belford is the recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks him to continue his communications and mentions a shocking letter from Belford about Mrs. Sinclair.
Letter 512: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks him to return the previous letter and to continue writing, especially about Clarissa's family.
Letter 513: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace warns him about the difficulty of maintaining penitence.
Letter 514: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, describes his own reform and plans for a virtuous life.
Letter 515: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace comments on Belford's 'dismal and horrible' themes.
Letter 516: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Lovelace accuses him of complicity in Clarissa's ruin, arguing he knew the designs and failed to act.
Letter 517: Mr. Belford, to Colonel Morden
Writes to Colonel Morden in a serious and solemn manner, fulfilling his promise to Clarissa to prevent further mischief.
Letter 519: Colonel Morden, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Morden thanks him for the letters and promises, and values his humane counsel.
Letter 521: Mr. Belford, to Miss Howe
Writes to Miss Howe, sending copies of Clarissa's posthumous letters and Lovelace's remorseful letter, and reports the deaths of Sinclair and Tomlinson.
Letter 522: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.
Praised by Anna for his efforts and for trying to dissuade Colonel Morden from revenge.
Letter 523: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.
Addressed by Miss Howe as the executor of Clarissa's will; she admonishes him regarding his own reformation.
Letter 524: Mr. Belford, to Miss Howe
Expresses gratitude to Miss Howe for her condescending hint about Clarissa's wishes for his reformation, and vows to pursue it earnestly.
Letter 525: Lord M. to John Belford, Esq. M. Hall
Recipient of the letter; Lord M. asks him to keep Lovelace and Morden apart.
Letter 526: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.
Narrator and executor of Clarissa's will; mediates between Lovelace and Morden, refuses to return Lovelace's letters.
Letter 527: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.
Narrates the farewell to Lovelace, expresses affection and hope for his reform.
Letter 528: Mr. Belford, to Lord M.
Reports to Lord M. his conversation with Colonel Morden and agrees to serve as Morden's executor.
Letter 529: Miss Howe, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; tasked with writing Clarissa's character; has access to papers and Colonel Morden's letters.
Letter 530: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks for news of his reformation and others.
Letter 531: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace, detailing his reformation and hopes for marriage.
Letter 532: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace asks him for honest information about Morden's intentions.
Letter 533: Mr. Belford, to Robert Lovelace, Esq.
Writes to Lovelace with urgent advice to avoid Colonel Morden, expressing concern for both men's safety and reminding Lovelace of his guilt.
Letter 534: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace thanks him for his friendship but dismisses his warnings.
Letter 535: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter; Lovelace references Belford's role as executor and his own potential need for one.
Letter 536: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.
Recipient of Lovelace's letter detailing the duel arrangements.
Letter 537: Translation of a Letter from F. J. de la Tour
Recipient of the letter; Lovelace's packet is to be sent to him.
Postscript Referred to in the Preface
Described as repentant and not ungenerous; he speaks of Mr. Hickman with honour and respect.
Endnotes
Referenced as the recipient of Lovelace's letters and as Clarissa's chosen executor.

Chapter companion notes

Spoil-light check-ins for John Belford unlock in the free preview.

See John Belford in Letter 31: Mr. Lovelace, to John Belford, Esq.