Episode 5 of *Alien: Earth* acts not only as a gripping mini-Alien film but also uncovers more details about one of the series’ mysterious characters: Morrow (Babou Ceesay), the chief of security and the only survivor of Weyland-Yutani’s downed Maginot vessel.

In this flashback episode, Morrow is shown in his personal quarters, going through letters from home, which provide a glimpse into his character.

What insights do Morrow’s letters provide about him?

In his quarters, Morrow opens a collection of letters and comes across a picture of his daughter, Estelle, as an infant. The first two letters are penned by her (one from her early childhood, the other from her teenage years), while the last is a fax from Weyland-Yutani.

Here are the letters transcribed:

First letter:
DADABEAR

I had a bad dream last night. Mom tried to convince me it was merely a dream, but it took a long time for me to get back to sleep. I dreamt your spaceship flew by the moon.

Second letter:
Dadabear

I’m beginning to look at schools. I didn’t realize this, but mom told me that Weyland-Yutani will cover all of my educational expenses. That’s if I attend a Wey-Yu approved institution. Is that really true? Because I want to enroll in one of the traditional colleges. They don’t impose the same restrictions that corporate schools do. I think, if I really tried, I might get into Harvard. However, we would have to fund it ourselves. Also, my friend Cody’s father is employed by Weyland-Yutani as well. But she only receives a partial scholarship. How significant ARE you? I wish we could converse. That’s not the first time or the last that I’ve thought about it, I’m sure. But sometimes it would really help to have another perspective to discuss these things with.

Estelle

Third letter:
MISSION YEAR 8 OF 65

Mr. Morrow, this message is to notify you that your daughter, Estelle, 19, perished in a fire that ravaged her home on the 12th of April. Her belongings have been stored for you until your return in 53 years.

What can we deduce from the letters?

Morrow’s emotionally distant and frosty personality can be linked to this personal loss. The first two letters reveal a deep connection with his daughter, making the final fax all the more heartbreaking. This is the first moment Morrow showcases any feelings, suggesting that his daughter’s passing has toughened him. With no one awaiting him on Earth, he is wholly committed to the mission, executing orders with a robotic indifference.

Another significant clue from the letters is the question “How important ARE you?” from his daughter, which foreshadows the episode’s conclusion, exposing Morrow’s personal ties to the Weyland-Yutani chief, making him both an adopted family member and a valuable recruit.

*Alien: Earth* episodes are broadcasted on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on Hulu and FX.