Word order: how he was honest/ how honest he was

[optimistic pessimist]

Dear all,

1. John told me how honest he was.
2. John told me how he was honest.

I heard from a non-native English teacher that both #1 and #2 are okay. However, #1 seems to be correct to me.

Is #2 also fine?

Thanks!

OP

 

[5jj]

John told me how he was honest - John spoke of a time when he did an honest thing.

I agree that this is one meaning. Another is that John said the words, "I am honest".