Who is John Belford from Clarissa and what is their importance?

John Belford is Mr. Lovelace's best friend. Lovelace confides in Belford in regard to all of his plotting against Clarissa. Belford, however, begins to both pity and admire Clarissa after they meet and tries to dissuade Mr. Lovelace from acting dishonorably toward her.

After Clarissa's imprisonment, Belford rescues Clarissa and befriends her. He protects her against Mr. Lovelace, and Clarissa names him as her executor. Upon her death, Belford fulfills his commitment with the help of Colonel Morden. It is Clarissa's influence that leads Belford to reform his immoral behavior.