his thoughts of women's friendships in general; of that of Miss Howe and
his cousin, in particular. An early habit of familiar letter-writing,
how improving. Censures Miss Howe for her behaviour to Mr. Hickman. Mr.
Hickman's good character. Caution to parents who desire to preserve
their children's veneration for them. Mr. Hickman, unknown to Miss Howe,
puts himself and equipage in mourning for Clarissa. Her lively turn upon
him on that occasion. What he, the Colonel, expects from the generosity
of Miss Howe, in relation to Mr. Hickman. Weakness of such as are afraid
of making their last wills.

LETTER XLVII. Belford to Miss Howe.--
With copies of Clarissa's posthumous letters; and respectfully, as from
Colonel Morden and himself, reminding her of her performing her part of
her dear friend's last desires, in making one of the most deserving men
in England happy. Informs her of the delirium of Lovelace, in order to
move her compassion for him, and of the dreadful death of Sinclair and
Tomlinson.

LETTER XLVIII. Miss Howe to Mr. Belford.--
Observations on the letters and subjects he communicates to her. She
promises another letter, in answer to his and Colonel Morden's call upon
her in Mr. Hickman's favour. Applauds the Colonel for purchasing her
beloved friend's jewels, in order to present them to Miss Dolly Hervey.

LETTER XLIX. From the same.--
She accounts for, though not defends, her treatment of Mr. Hickman. She
owns that he is a man worthy of a better choice; that she values no man
more than him: and assures Mr. Belford and the Colonel that her
endeavours shall not be wanting to make him happy.