I am leaving this damned city! ............. Howard, I do not care what happens to him. a) As for b) What about c) Talking of d) As far as

To determine the correct phrase to fill in the blank, let's analyze the options provided within the context of the sentence:

1. As for - This phrase is used to introduce a topic or a person that is being referred to, indicating a shift in focus. It fits well as it suggests that the speaker is shifting focus to Howard.

2. What about - This expression is often used to bring up a related issue or person for discussion. While it could work, it tends to imply a question regarding Howard's situation, which is not the context here.

3. Talking of - This phrase is used to indicate that the speaker is about to mention something related to what was just discussed. It also fits, but it’s slightly less formal compared to “as for.”

4. As far as - This phrase is more commonly used to specify a limit of knowledge or extent. It wouldn’t fit well here as it doesn’t directly address Howard.

Analysis

Given this context, the phrase "As for" fits best because it smoothly transitions the focus to Howard, indicating that the speaker's feelings towards him are being specified: "I do not care what happens to him."

Final Answer

a) As for