Transcriber’s Notes
Words printed in italics in the original work have been transcribed
between underscores: _text_. Small capitals have been transcribed as
CAPITALS. More transcriber’s notes may be found at the end of this
text.
THE AGONY COLUMN
OF THE “TIMES”
1800-1870
_WITH AN INTRODUCTION_
EDITED BY ALICE CLAY
[Illustration]
London
CHATTO AND WINDUS, PICCADILLY
1881
[_All rights reserved_]
PRINTED BY WILLIAM CLOWES AND SONS, LIMITED, LONDON AND BECCLES.
INTRODUCTION.
THE contents of the little volume now presented to the public have been
taken from the second column (commonly called the “Agony Column”) of the
_Times_ newspaper, from the commencement of the present century to the
end of the year 1870.
Readers of newspapers (more especially of the _Times_) cannot fail to be
struck by the mysterious communications which daily appear, and I
venture to hope my selection of some of the most remarkable may interest
those who peruse these pages.
Most of the advertisements selected show a curious phase of life,
interesting to an observer of human existence and human eccentricities.
They are veiled in an air of mystery, with a view of blinding the
general public, but at the same time give a clue unmistakable to those
for whom they were intended.
At the early period of 1800 the “Agony Column” seems to have been the
chief medium for matrimonial advertisements; but, unfortunately, we are
left considerably in the dark, and our curiosity as to whether the young
nobleman (in advertisement No. 2) eventually married the unknown
“Catholic widow” is not gratified; but we do learn something, namely,
that love at first sight was not so rare in those days as it is supposed
to be in the present unromantic age.
There is little doubt that lovers separated by unfortunate
circumstances, or by angry parents, as well as bachelors meditating
matrimony, have found in the “Agony Column” a safe means of secret
correspondence. With what despair did “One-winged Dove” (advertisement
No. 214) beseech her lover, the “Crane,” to return to her! Sorely must
her patience have been tried as she scanned the paper in vain day after
day for four months. The answer came at last (advertisements No. 234 and
235), but only to kill every hope.
I do not know how this portion of the _Times_ newspaper came to be
called the “Agony Column;” but when we read advertisements like the one
quoted above, and which is only one in a hundred, I think all my readers
will agree that it is an unquestionably appropriate name.
Through our daily walk in life we brush up against millions of
fellow-men, yet of how few amongst them do we know anything? We each
live in a world of our own; we draw a circle, as it were, around us,
within which centre all our interests. How lightly our feelings are
touched by what happens outside our circle is shown by the exclamation
that escapes our lips as we read a fresh tragedy in the daily papers.
The actors in it are unknown to us, and in a moment or two the paper is
laid aside with a smile on our lips--the news that blighted many lives
forgotten! But if it comes within the charmed circle, how different our
feelings!
On the other hand, how very little we know of the inner or deeper life
of even those in our own little world. Romances, stranger than fiction,
happen under our very eyes, and we do not see them. With hearts that are
breaking men and women can go through the duties of every-day life,
wearing calm and even smiling faces. He knew human nature well who
wrote--
“Broken hearts are dumb--or smile.”
What is there to tell us that such smiles are only on the surface?
Nothing. So, is it not possible that the very advertisement that
appealed to our feelings in the day’s paper may have been inserted by
some one living under the same roof with us!
We find some of the pseudonyms used by the advertisers are very
transparent disguises, for instance, “Bocaj” (advertisements No. 355 and
363), read backwards, is simply Jacob. What an insight we get here into
the writer’s character. No one possessing a sly, crafty nature would
have dictated an alias so apparent.
Many others are of the same transparent nature. In some cases numbers
have been substituted for the letters of the alphabet, and are easily
deciphered. Take, for example, advertisement No. 1561, which reads, “Z.
Y. R. Let me send correspondence with rector of college; it will
explain how things stand. I go abroad next month.”
In some advertisements the alphabet is slightly altered. Instead of
reading the letter B as printed, read C. Thus, “head” would read “if
be.” An advertisement of this description is found on June 23rd, 1864
(No. 1387)--“Alexander Rochfort reported dead. I saw you yesterday.
Moate vainly searched ten years.” The same rule applies to advertisement
No. 1454, the meaning of which is, “Bone to first joint taken out
yesterday--chloroform--régimes alone prevented me fulfilling my promise
to you--Myosotis--May 3rd.”
In advertisements No. 1701 and 1705 the alphabet is again altered, and
this time more ingeniously. Instead of the letter written supply the
second following. Thus we read in the first, “Umbrella. Dear Fanny, meet
your distracted friend beneath the willow by the lake. Row under the
stars. Common sea-breezes. Feather-weight. Yours, Bicycle.” The
advertisement preceding it is most intricate, and reads, “Wrote you
to-day. Will the letter ever reach. Love beyond telling, purely and
true. Inraptured (_sic_) with love, darling. No sleep that night.” The
spelling of this is so incorrect that it was most probably inserted by
an illiterate individual. Advertisements No. 1247, 1248, 1249, 1250 are
all from the same source, and the writers have very cleverly transposed
the whole alphabet. My readers will find that they have begun their
alphabet at the letter L. Thus L reads A; M, B; N, C, and so on through
the twenty-six letters. For example, we read in advertisement No. 1247,
“On Tuesday I sent letter to Byrne for you. May I speak fully on all
matters at the interview? It may do good. Trust to my love. I am
miserable. When may I go to Canterbury, if only to look at you?”
In advertisements No. 1650, 1651, 1660, 1666, 1670, 1680, 1681, 1696,
1697, 1698, 1702, and 1703 we go back to the simpler style of disguise,
namely, that of reading the letter that follows the one written.
Advertisement No. 1650 consequently reads, “O. Y. is ill. Do not like to
leave yet. How long notice would you want? Very kind thoughts.”
Frankenstein, in advertisements 1734, 1735, 1739, and 1747, has chosen a
disguise so clever and deep that I do not think his communications would
be easily detected; and for those of my readers who possess only a small
amount of patience and a large amount of curiosity, I give the
translation of the first of them.
“Three, four, five, six, yes to all, be cautious anywhere even in German
in case of seizure or stoppage, omit signature W for the present, twig
for safety any letter to me, safe here, trust me, I will never give you
up, never darling, put plenty of love in your letters.”
No. 1764 and 1765 are very much of the same description--clever, deep,
and remarkable for the same want of method in transposing the alphabet,
and when read are worthy of the cunning nature that devised such a
disguise. As the translation is a very tedious business and would
require a large amount of patience and perseverance I give them both:
No. 1764--“Very vexed at angry part of your letter. Why not take
interest in your appearance? Heiress be damned. Have more trust. Shall
always remain as usual yours only. V.” No. 1765--“On prowl and near
game. Party scrofulous but got the brass. Parker!! Family very soft and
come from Leeds. Make inquiries. Trust is broken reed ready wanted to
swagger withal (_sic_). Help Jones usually. V.”
Advertisement No. 1731 is equally mysterious and clever; the alphabet
commences at the letter N as in advertisement No. 1247, but is rendered
more obscure by the use of capital letters, and after having deciphered
the letters the sentence has to be divided into words; my readers will
then find it reads thus: “You only till death letter for you Sunday
night.”
I think after all the examples I have given that no one will have much
difficulty in deciphering for themselves advertisements No. 1762 and
1767 in which “Nellie” addressed herself to “Darling Alf.” Any
construction might be put on her simple message, but “I will be at the
Great Western Hotel at six on Wednesday” gives one the idea of a runaway
match, and this idea seems to be confirmed in the second advertisement,
No. 1767, in which she says, “Everything sacred as the grave” (query,
did she not mean silent?), and asks for £5 to defray expenses.
We come across a somewhat curious case in advertisements No. 694, 702,
708, 710, 713, and 715: a young lady, evidently in love, and separated
from the object of her affections, wrote to the “Agony Column” under the
name of “Puisque” (No. 694); she received no answer, so advertised again
twice (No. 702 and 708), and was evidently under a strong impression
that her lover was suffering from illness. After a few days an answer
appeared, headed “Puisque” (710), but the writer desired her to
advertise again, addressing her correspondent by his own initials. We
find in advertisement No. 713 that the lady suspected the fraud, and
then her genuine lover advertised (715) to tell her that the former one
(710) had not been inserted by him. There is little doubt that some one
interested in keeping them apart had detected the advertisement, and
under the common impression that “all is fair in love and war” had laid
aside all scruples--if he or she ever possessed any--to serve his or her
own ends. This is not the only case of mistaken identity; we find in
advertisement No. 1065 that the writer was in doubt as to whether the
one he was answering was intended for him or not.
After a very careful investigation I think the romantic pair who
advertised for some time under the disguise of “Does he repent”
(advertisements No. 923, 924, 925, and 926) were either found out or
afraid of detection, as they altered their names twice; the first time
to “Rose” and “Weed,” and again to “Blue bell” and “Lochinvar”
(advertisements No. 962 and 963). “Constantia” also appears to have had
a part in this plot (advertisement No. 969); probably she played the
part of “go-between.” Advertisements No. 1181, 1183, and one or two
others are quite legible when read backwards.
After the number of sentimental advertisements, which certainly form the
greater number in the Agony Column, it is rather a relief to find a few
ludicrous specimens, such as “Jolly to Rummy” (advertisement No. 1166);
“Portmanteau to Pack” (advertisement No. 1180); “Little Silly”
(advertisement No. 1216); “He has sneezed, etc.” (No. 1258); and a
splendid antidote to all sentimentality is expressed in the sarcasm of
advertisement No. 1237: “Fred. All right. I sympathize with your pain,
but why not seek consolation where you cannot find it, and in a way that
pains me? Write as usual. Trust Ever.”
Amongst the number of advertisements that I have passed over in silence
there are many, I have little doubt, that might be classed under the
head of stratagems, that is to say, they are inserted with a view of
deceiving those to whom they are addressed. For instance, how often do
we read nowadays: “John Smith will hear something to his advantage if he
applies in person to Tom Jones, Brown Street.” But in all probability
the same said John Smith will find that if he gratifies his curiosity by
visiting Mr. Jones at the place named, in the hope of finding a fortune
has been left to him, he will find it would have been decidedly more to
his advantage had he suppressed his curiosity and remained at home.
Nor is a hoax by any means an uncommon thing in the “Agony Column.”
There is a story--American, of course--of a man whose wife deserted him;
but instead of running after her and begging her to come back, he
published in the leading daily paper that he had drawn fifty thousand
dollars in the lottery; and the story goes that she returned
immediately. Needless to state that the prize in the lottery only
existed in the ingenious man’s imagination.
Lastly, I must draw the attention of my readers to the two most
remarkable series of advertisements, in my opinion, that have appeared
during the present century, though I feel sure that all who honour my
pages with a careful perusal will not fail to notice them without any
remark of mine.
The first series are those signed with the initials E. W., then E. J.
W., and latterly with the writer’s full address--E. J. Wilson, Ennis,
Ireland. His advertisements are headed by such a variety of names that,
at first sight, we are apt to be misled, and do not think of connecting
the writer of “Rouge et Noir” with that of “Indigo Blue” or “To the
Equator.” Nevertheless they are all from the same source, as well as
those headed “The Writer of the Anonymous Letter,” “Battledore and
Shuttlecock,” “Flybynight,” “Egypte,” “Anchor,” “Circumspice,” “Au
Simulacre,” “Decimals to Cheops,” “To Contre Coup,” “Tribe,” “Two
Hundred Pounds Reward,” “Nicht eine Million,” “Nicht Zwei Millonen,”
“Double Fin,” “Leb! Wohl,” “Poverty and Honour,” “Spurs and Skirts,” “A
La Croix Rouge,” “To the Counterfeit,” “Alpha the First,” “To St.
James,” “The Key,” “The Pillar,” “Honest Alexis,” “Hide and Seek,” “To a
Christian,” “X Cheops X,” “X Tribe X,” “X Blue Eyes X,” “X Gamins X,”
“My dearest Alice,” etc., some of which are signed “Cygne,” others
“Egypte,” and the rest with the initials of name in full. His first
advertisement (No. 245) appeared in 1851, and from that date they
appeared continually during a period of six years. They ceased for a
time, but commenced again in the year 1857. He seems to have been an
unfortunate man, and evidently lost not only his fortune, but his
daughter Alice, and his numerous appeals in the “Agony Column” are a
curious mixture of business complications and entreaties for his lost
child’s return. That his child was not lost by accident, but stolen by
some one of evil intent, cannot fail to be apparent to even the most
careless of my readers. One cannot help feeling an amount of sympathy
with this unfortunate writer as we read advertisements No. 995, 1001,
and 1034, in which we learn what a large share of anxiety and suffering
fell to his lot. The last of his advertisements appeared in 1870 (No.
1753), but unfortunately we cannot learn from its contents whether or
not the tide of misfortune had turned for him at last.
The other remarkable series of advertisements to which I alluded are
those signed “J. de W.” There is little doubt that mankind inherited a
large amount of curiosity from our mother Eve; therefore advertisements,
written in the ordinary intelligent manner, though they may be full of
interest and amusement, do not strike us as forcibly as those couched in
an unintelligible style like the ones to which I am now referring, and
simply from the fact that we are unable to read them. For five years “J.
de W.’s” advertisements appeared on or about the first of every month,
commencing March 1st, 1850; and, as we follow them, we can conjure up
for ourselves the stirring history and romance of a lifetime. It is
somewhat difficult to determine whether or not the advertisements,
written in the same type and signed “A. B. C.,” are answers to the
others. It is quite possible that “J. de W.” might be able to receive
letters without interference, but had no means of sending them without
detection, and was therefore reduced to the medium of the _Times_. It
seems quite impossible that any man, though possessed of unbounded faith
and perseverance, would have struggled against fate so long. Would he
not have given up in despair years before he did? So I think we may
conclude that the messages signed “J. de W.” and “A. B. C.” are answers
one to the other.
I have been able to show so many different ways in which our simple
alphabet can be changed to form a language that will defy a large
majority of the public, that I feel sure that all those who are denied
the privilege of an open correspondence, might, with a little ingenuity,
find a way of communication that would baffle those whose eyes they
fear; but at the same time let them remember that parents, guardians,
and friends will have discovered in my pages that what looks so
unintelligible at first sight may, with a little patience, be read as
easily as the plainest English printed in our newspapers.
THE AGONY COLUMN
OF THE “TIMES.”
1.--_Monday, January 13, 1800._
THE ANSWER of a LETTER to an OFFICER at HEREFORD is, “That he Was.”
2.--_Thursday, December 18, 1800._
A CARD.--If the Lady who a Gentleman handed into her carriage from
Covent Garden Theatre, on Wednesday, the third of this month, will
oblige the Advertiser with a line to Z. Z., Spring Garden Coffee House,
saying if married or single, she will quiet the mind of a young
Nobleman, who has tried, but in vain, to find the Lady. The carriage was
ordered to Bond Street. The Lady may depend on honour and secrecy.
Nothing but the most honourable interview is intended. The Lady was in
mourning, and sufficiently cloathed to distinguish her for possessing
every virtue and charm that man could desire in a female that he would
make choice of for a Wife. Deception will be detected, as the Lady’s
person can never be forgot.
3.--_Saturday, May 16, 1801._
ELIZA’S Second LETTER has been received. The Inserter of this candidly
acknowledges a pre-engagement; but if “Eliza” wishes for further
explanation, she will please to address herself to the Inserter’s
Father.
4.--_Wednesday, July 15, 1801._
TO ELIZA.--It is with deep regret the Person feels himself again called
upon publicly to address ELIZA on the subject of her very unpleasant
Letters, after repeated solicitations to discontinue them. He is
perfectly satisfied in his own mind to have acted honourably towards
her, for her peace of mind sake has candidly and unreservedly made known
to her his situation, consequently she well knows he cannot in honour,
even if he were disposed, accede to her wishes. It is useless for her
therefore to trouble him with more, or to write elsewhere, as she may
rest assured, from him they will meet with the fate of the two last,
which were committed to the flames unopened, and likewise in the other
quarter, the contempt they justly merit.
5.--_Tuesday, December 15, 1801._
MATRIMONY.--The friend of a Gentleman (a Bachelor), about 26, who is a
Man of good property, agreeable person, and in an old-established
profitable Business in one of the best and most fashionable streets at
the West-end of the Town, wishes to see him made happy by an honourable
union with an amiable Female of good education, pleasing manners, and
some property. This Advertisement is inserted by his Friend without his
knowledge, by which means he hopes to introduce a Lady to his wishes,
and prevent the possibility of prejudice on his part by this too common
channel of information. Any Lady (Widow or Spinster) not exceeding 30
years of age, who may answer this Advertisement (not out of curiosity
only), may depend on secrecy, and the greatest honour and most
respectable reference, by addressing a line to Mr. Thomas Price, to be
left at the Printing-office, Grocer’s Hall-court, Poultry.
6.--_Tuesday, December 22, 1801._
TO a LADY.--The GENTLEMAN who lately received TWO LETTERS from a Lady,
is extremely sorry that the first did not reach him in time to avail
himself of its contents, and thereby escape the Rebuke contained in the
second. He will shortly be obliged to leave Town in a few months for
Ireland. If this should meet the eye of his Fair Correspondent, he hopes
she will honour him with another, directed as the last, between this and
Saturday.
7.--_Thursday, December 31, 1801._
IF the GENTLEMAN (supposed a Foreigner) who kindly took a YOUNG LADY
from No. 13, Charlotte-street, Rathbone-Place, to Bristol, the beginning
of September last, will appoint a Place and Time of Meeting with the
Advertiser, whose discretion and secrecy may be depended upon, it may be
attended with real benefit to the young Lady. Direct to D. G., at John’s
Coffee-house, Cornhill.
8.--_Thursday, December 23, 1802._
INCOGNITA’S elegant and well-composed EPISTLE, of the 19th instant, has
had all the impression that possibly could be expected: another, with
real name and place of abode, may be safely ventured. An immediate
intercourse is earnestly requested by
LEANDER.
9.--_Wednesday, December 28, 1803._
MATRIMONY.--A TRADESMAN, in a pleasant part of London, wishes to meet
with a PARTNER for LIFE. A handsome face is not so much his wish as an
agreeable, prudent Person; a Widow would not be objected to if her age
did not much exceed his own, which is under 30. Some fortune is
expected. A line to A. B., under cover to Mr. Woffington, No. 41,
Lombard-street, post paid, will meet with the strictest honour and
secrecy.
10.--_Monday, February 13, 1804._
A. B. C.
11.--_Saturday, June 16, 1804._
TO M----A M----E. “Forget” you? By Heaven I cannot! Engraven on my soul
is your memory, in deepest characters, which time vainly will endeavour
to efface, contracted as now must be its span, since without one
remonstrance, one expostulation, you can resolve for ever to forget me.
Wherefore, then, often warned, persist in exciting a reluctant, indeed,
but never more unfeigned, sensibility, only to wound it? DO I DESERVE
THIS? Is it generous? Is it equitable? But severe no longer, welcome
now, is the mandate of authority, enjoining oblivion of
ORL----O.
12.--_Tuesday, September 4, 1804._
A CARD.--H. J. A. presents his most respectful compliments to the
Catholic Widow Lady, residing near London-bridge, and earnestly requests
a speedy interview. Should this meet the Lady’s, or any of the family’s
eyes, it is for obvious reasons desired that this may meet the attention
which the nearest relationship pleads for. An answer, addressed to the
Blossoms Inn, Lawrence-lane, Cheapside, will be attended to.
13.--_Friday, September 21, 1804._
IF the YOUTH THAT LEFT ISLINGTON on Sunday evening can remember that he
ever had a Mother, he is informed he will soon be deprived of that
blessing, except he immediately writes with particulars, or personally
appears before her. His friend will redress any circumstance, and settle
every point to his satisfaction.
WEST SMITHFIELD.
14.--_Wednesday, October 10, and Thursday, October 11, 1804._
THE LETTER of J. A. has been received this morning: the person to whom
it was addressed will be happy to receive a further communication, and
assures the writer that everything friendship can dictate will be done
for him if he will send a line where a letter may be addressed to him:
he thinks it needless to pledge his honour that secrecy will be
observed, and his own inclinations alone be consulted.
OCTOBER 9th, 1804.
15.--_Friday, January 10, 1806._
B.
16.--_Thursday, February 6, 1806._
A.
17.--_Monday, December 29, 1806._
TO D. P.--IN ANSWER to D. P.’s note, the sum proposed is 3000_l._, which
will be lodged in the hands of his Banker, or any one else he may
appoint. The next, addressed to Newmarket, will be duly attended to.
18.--_Wednesday, May 13, 1807._
A CARD.--If Mr. A., who had such a delightful Row to Battersea, on
Monday, the 27th of last month, will call or write, everything can be
explained to his satisfaction.
19.--_Friday, July 3, 1807._
MR. T. BARRALET begs leave to remind his Friends who knew him thirty
years ago, that he is alive and in good health.--South Lambeth, July 2.
20.--_Monday, May 22, 1809._
IF the LADY who met a CLERGYMAN in the Greenwich Coach, on Thursday, May
18, will send her address at Somers Town, to Rev. W. J., at the Turk’s
Head Coffee-house in the Strand, she may accomplish the declared object
of her wishes immediately.
21.--_Tuesday, December 25, 1810._
A LADY who passed a Gentleman on Monday, the 17th of this month, in
Hart-street, Bloomsbury, about 3 o’clock in the afternoon, without
speaking to him, is anxious for an opportunity of seeing him again, any
time after the 7th of January.
22.--_Tuesday, September 10, 1811._
IF the Gentleman who met a LADY in Gracechurch-street, on the evening of
the 9th of November last, and walked with her to the lower end of
Bishopgate-street, and then waited till her return, and then accompanied
her into the City, will be at the exact spot where he waited for her, at
8 o’clock on Wednesday and Thursday next, she will meet him, having
something of importance to communicate.
SEPTEMBER 9, 1811.
23.--_Friday, March 31, 1815._
A. B.’s LETTER is acknowledged with thanks, and further information is
solicited most earnestly; no expense or labour will be spared in the
pursuit of that justice which has hitherto been sought in vain; honour
and secrecy may be relied on always.
24.--_Thursday, November 7, 1816._
PHILIP.--Would PHILIP like to hear of his MOTHER’S DEATH?
25.--_Monday, April 27, 1818._
G. B.--If every manly feeling is not extinct in you, you will return
directly. It is false shame to leave a woman to combat difficulties that
you could not withstand. You are vilified, as if you were a bad man, and
that by persons whose indulgence you might expect. Your presence may
reverse what has been done. It will relieve those who love you, from
distress the most unutterable.--April 27.
R.
26.--_Thursday, May 7, and May 14, 1818._
G. B.--If you could conceive the sorrow and despair into which I am
plunged, I am sure you would at last let me hear from you; this
unkindness distracts me more than all the rest; with you I could suffer
every privation; your absence only aggravates our miseries; you have
still friends left, whose kindness can obliterate past recollections.
S. B.
27.--_Monday, March 22, 1819._
E. Z. is particularly expected; he will find a Letter in
Cheapside.--Saturday morning, March 20, 1819.
28.--_Tuesday, July 6, 1819._
F. K. B.--RECEIVED.
29.--_Wednesday, September 6, 1820._
“’TIS WELL.” H. H.--London, September 4, 1820.
30.--_Thursday, September 21, 1820._
H. H. begs leave to acknowledge receipt of J. A.’s communication, and to
inform him, that he need not hesitate in naming the harbour and using
his own oars.--London, September 1, 1820.
31.--_Monday, April 2, 1821._
A. B.--B. U.--C. T. * * * A. A.--E. E.--E. F. * * * F. A. * * * E. A.
* * * A. S. A. T.--B. U.
32.--_Thursday, August 2, 1821._
E. A. * * * A. F.--E. H. * * * F. C.--B. V. * * * A. B.--B. A. E. T.--A.
R.--C. R. * * * F. E.--B. L.--C. O. * * * A. 6--E. J.--b--E. G.--in--C.
X.
33.--_Friday, March 7, 1823._
B. in the City, is particularly desirous to know the Possessor of the
following motto--“Je mours on je m’attache.”
34.--_Tuesday, April 1, 1823._
E. A. * * * F. A. * * * F. G. * B. L. * * * A. R. * A. U. * A. W. * B.
G.
35.--_Saturday, May 3, 1823._
A. J. * E. E. * E. F. * * * A. B. * E. J. * B. A. * C. 3. * * * E. A.
* * * F. C. * C. F. * * *
36.--_Saturday, May 24, 1823._
L. S.--Why do you not RETURN the PURSE?--May 23.
37.--_Wednesday, September 3, 1823._
F. B. * C. R. * * * A. L. * C. Q. * E. H. * * * E. B. * A. J. * * * A.
J. * E. D. * * * F. E. * C. Q. * * * A. S. * A. T. * E. T. * B. T. * C.
P. * * * A. T. * E. E. * * *
38.--_Wednesday, September 24, 1823._
HAZARD & Co.--TO-MORROW.
39.--_Friday, October 3, 1823._
A. B. * E. T. * B. W. * E. J. * B. T. * C. S. * E. J. * B. A. * C. T.
* * * A. J. * E. C. * * * A. T. * E. E. * * * F. B. * C. G. * * * F. F.
* C. R. * * * F. G. * B. V. * C. T. * * * E. B. * A. J. * * *
40.--_Thursday, January, 1824._
E. A. * * * E. B. * A. J. * E. E. * * * A. Z. * E. H. * C. R. * * * F.
C. * B. F. * C. M. * * * F. E. * C. O. * C. Q. * C. T. * E. W. * * * F.
G. * B. V. * C. B. * * *
41.--_Saturday, January 31, 1824._
F. A. * * * A. J. * E. C. * * * A. Q. * A. R. * A. U. * A. W. * B. U.
* * * A. B. * B. A. * * * F. E. * C. B. * * * F. C. * B. F. * C. M.
* * * F. F. * C. A. * * * A. L. * E. H. * C. P. * * *
42.--_Wednesday, March 3, 1824._
“Z. AGAIN.--CASE UNTRUE.”
43.--_Wednesday, March 24, 1824._
Z.
44.--_Wednesday, May 26, 1824._
R.--YES.--What was required has been done, but the Advertiser earnestly
solicits that the affair may drop; there is risk without use. No news is
good news, he requests only to know when an union has taken place.
45.--_Saturday, November 6, 1824._
JOE to JACK.--SURRENDER!
46.--_Thursday, November 11, 1824._
The Anonymous Writer can have no copy of his first Letter. “Ruinous
exposure” are not words in course. He must drop his mask, or forfeit his
self-respect. Having seized upon the judgement-seat, he should know no
rest till he has traced the accusation through all its windings, till he
either by proof establishes, or, in his own person, absolutely acquits
from that “claim” which is most unequivocally denied. Let him “reflect
then.” The wanton cruelty imputed, even in his last letter, would leave
a stain never to be effaced.
47.--_Friday, December 2, 1825._
“CÆSAR BORGIA.”--Labor improbus omnia vincit. W. L. R. nunc 30. Brompton
row.
48.--_Thursday, May 4, 1826._
I CONSENT to any, every condition, rather than a continuance of this
lengthened--this too justly dreaded--separation.
49.--_Monday, May 8, and May 9, 1826._
I CONSENT to everything that can be suggested to procure a
reconciliation, which I have for a long period anxiously desired.
50.--_Friday, May 12, 1826._
I ENTREAT YOU to KEEP to YOUR WORD, or it may be fatal. Laws were made
to bind the villains of society.
51.--_Monday, May 15, 1826._
COUNTERSIGN.--Letters from me to you are not safe. Depend upon my
secrecy and honour. Fare thee well.
52.--_Tuesday, May 16, 1826._
RESPECTFULLY; Confidence has been betrayed.
53.--_Monday, June 5, 1826._
MEMORANDUM.--Suspicions are unfounded.--Slanders from Hypocrites and
story-tellers ought not to be credited--no unknown circumstance can be
credited.
54.--_Wednesday, September 30, 1829._
IF the GENTLEMAN, whose conversation was interrupted a fortnight ago (by
an exclamation of--“Sir, you will lose your handkerchief,” and also by a
carriage driving suddenly into Portland-place), wishes to renew it, he
will find the curiosity that then lay dormant has since been excited,
therefore the information volunteered, if he has not left town, may be
sent to C. D., twopenny post-office, 88, Oxford-street.
55.--_Thursday, September 30, 1830._
TO L----A.--It is impossible to approve or justify the step L----a has
taken. How much unhappiness her conduct has occasioned, and still
occasions, cannot be conceived. All that remains to those whom she has
so deeply afflicted is to lament that any one brought up in a knowledge
of the duties of virtue and religion could ever be induced to depart so
widely from what they enjoin.
56.--_Friday, February 11, 1831._
Z. may make the experiments to which he alludes in his letter in the
presence of H. M. C. without fear of endangering his personal safety.
57.--_Wednesday, November 6, 1833._
W. D. is informed that his RESOLVE was, as delicately as possible, duly
communicated, and that the same was received with as much fortitude as
could be expected. The children are well, and their mother, though very
wretched, yet as composed as under the painful circumstances she could
be. W. D. is requested to write again, giving a detailed account on a
particular subject, from his new residence, when decided upon.
58.--_Tuesday, February 14, 1837._
H.
59.--_Saturday, June 3, and June 5 and 6, 1837._
“I DO.” London.
60.--_Thursday, June 8, 1837._
E. O. L. THANKS C. K. V. The circumstance was by direction, but seems to
have been overdone.
61.--_Saturday June 10, 1837._
WISH, but CANNOT YET. All kind. M. R.
62.--_Thursday, July 27, 1837._
H. Has not the slightest desire to act contrary to a wish expressed in
the manner it has been, had such been the intention, which it never was.
H. wishes it to be understood that, were some points cleared up, every
feeling, once expressed, would be felt the same even now. H. hopes that
this may yet be done; it would give extreme pleasure.
63.--_Thursday, October 18, 1838._
THOU wert bidden to eat of my bread, and to drink of my cup--come, they
shall be made sweet to thee, thy name is safe and ever dear--come, come
quickly, I will GIVE and thou shalt ENJOY, be thou yet RETAINED to cheer
a blighted home.
64.--_Saturday, October 12, 1839._
DOES R. A. wish to FORM an ALLIANCE with the LADY? If so, his parents
will consent. WRITE.
65.--_Wednesday, November 6, 1839._
EXTRACT from LETTER, dated November 1, 1839.--“All that I have to say,
however, is for you to write directly to Lady * * * * * * * *. Return
without a moment’s loss of time, and all will be adjusted.
66.--_Tuesday, September 22, 1840._
“W. E. J. S.--£100.”
67.--_Saturday, May 7, 1842._
J. H. REJECTS the FIRST Proposition of T. U., and will avail himself of
the second. As to T. U.’s inquiry, J. H. aver “No.”
68.--_Wednesday, July 13, 1842._
C. * * * * * * may implicitly rely upon the honour and SECRECY of his
friend, and that his only intention is to oblige and befriend. C. should
know his friend better than to imagine that any form of words would more
effectually bind the man, whose Christian and surname each contain six
letters.
69.--_Thursday, December 1, 1842._
GLANVILLE.--16 4872 3648 19 692 1843 2635 3586 186 496 369 471 702 1843
938a 4362z 4000 19 500 317 582 3000 5000 958 1000.--Nov. 28, 1842.
70.--_Thursday, December 15, 1842._
GLANVILLE.--16 -- 4, 872 -- 940c -- 5, 923+ -- 4000 -- 19 -- 888 -- 753
-- 116 -- 853 -- 973 -- 1,001 -- 989 -- 777 -- 4,321 -- 3,521+ --
666.--Dec. 10, 1842.
71.--_Friday, December 30, 1842._
GLANVILLE.--479y. -- 511 -- 208 -- 78 -- 3,482 -- 6,834 -- 397 -- 10,156
-- 3,421 -- 5,216 -- 3,111.--Dec. 29, 1842.
72.--_Friday, February 3, 1843._
MARCH 3rd.--W. C. M.
73.--_Friday, April 21, 1843._
GLANVILLE.--937 -- 64 -- 5,201 -- 999 -- 86 -- 8,217 -- 982 -- 42 --
3,333 -- 767 -- 54 -- 1,923 -- 4,800 -- 8,619.--April 20, 1843.
74.--_Friday, April 28, 1843._
GLANVILLE.--236 -- 13 -- 98 -- 7468 -- 1313 -- 649 -- 4434 -- 63 -- 114
-- 829 -- 7464 -- 11 -- 108 -- 97 -- 466 -- 13 -- 49 -- 38½ -- 189 --
40.--April 26, 1843.
75.--_Wednesday, May 10, 1843._
AN ELDERLY LADY.--No. Another tribute is in progress.
76.--_Wednesday, May 31, 1843._
CORUNNA.--RIGHT, LEFT.
77.--_Thursday, June 1, 1843._
A NEWFOUNDLAND DOG HAS TEETH.
78.--_Tuesday, October 3, 1843._
GLANVILLE.--42 -- 888 -- 222 -- 18 -- 699 -- 47 -- 382 476 -- 908 -- 73
-- 47 -- 1,667 -- 999 -- 17 -- 31 -- 897 -- 464 -- 23 -- 909 -- 1,763 --
48 -- 551 -- 49 -- 15 -- 86.--Sept. 27, 1843.
79.--_Wednesday, October 4, 1843._
GLANVILLE.--809 : 61 : 4371 : 15 : 86 : 312 : 9403 : 60 : 848 : 219 :
104 : 67 : 8333 : 471 : 3 : 888 : 769 : 12 : 222 : 18 : 999.--October 3.
80.--_Saturday, March 9, 1844._
M. A. E.--DISSATISFIED.
81.--_Thursday, March 28, 1844._
“BROKEN PROMISES MAKE FAITHLESS FRIENDS.”--A worthier spirit actuates
the writer of this, and the persons whom he saw to-day for a brief space
are invited to honour him with an INTERVIEW, either at the spot where
they met, or at that where he a second time saw them. Respectful
sympathy, and all the aid in his power, are his objects in making this
request.--Wednesday.
82.--_Friday, November 1, 1844._
YOURS, &c., No. 3.
83.--_Monday, December 2, 1844._
YOURS, &c., No. 5.
84.--_Wednesday, January 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No. 7.
85.--_Saturday, February 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No. 8.
86.--_Saturday, March 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No. 10.
87.--_Tuesday, April 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No. 12. (Stopped by orders from Le Père.)--NOTHING whatever
has ARRIVED here from you, save what you sent to me from M---- and
M----’s. All depends on your fidelity and courage.--G----M.
88.--_Saturday, April 12, 1845._
THE SECRET shall be KEPT.--H. M. Friday, April 11.
89.--_Saturday, April 26, 1845._
L. H. S--KEEP UP YOUR SPIRITS. I will stand by you. April 24, 1845.
90.--_Friday, May 2, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No.--(See April.) Mrs. M.’s LETTER has arrived.
91.--_Monday, June 2, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No.--See April.
92.--_Saturday, June 21, 1845._
S. B. “is a STRICT Disciplinarian, and not afraid of a rather unruly
Pupil.”
93.--_Tuesday, July 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No. 16.--See April.--YOUR COMMUNICATIONS have been RECEIVED.
There is nothing to forgive, but only to regret.
94.--_Friday, July 25, 1845._
R. B., £2, GREENWICH.--BE QUICK.
95.--_Friday, August 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No.--.--. See July.
96.--_Monday, September 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No.--. See July.
97.--_Wednesday, October 1, 1845._
YOURS, &c., No.--. See July.
98.--_Tuesday, October 7-8-9-10, 1845._
IT is a common fault with many to “suspect most where they can prove
least.”--J. H. G.
99.--_Wednesday, November 26, 1845._
T. P.--Nos. 36 295, 17396, 04692.
100.--_Saturday, December 13, 1845._
DIE DEUTSCHE SPRACHE.
101.--_Monday, February 2, 1846._
B. M. to C. S. swears solemnly to keep his secret inviolate.
102.--_Friday, February 27, 1846._
ON my honour I’ll do as you said in yr. letter--B. to S. R.
103.--_Friday, March 20, 1846._
MAY 7, 1844.--Yr. order, Sir, is rather cool, like yrself, and yr.
adopted country; nevertheless, it shall be obeyed. Your brother is
dead--died on the 6th of April, 1844, of cholera.
104.--_Saturday, April 18, 1846._
“VATES” has LEFT “The ERA.”
105.--_Monday, April 20, 1846._
“THE ERA” has LEFT “VATES.”
106.--_Wednesday, July 29, 1846._
D. D. D.--Yes--for all the documents as stated before.
107.--_Wednesday, October 7, 1846._
B. NEW***STONE.--“There is no incense that doth reach to heaven with
such sweet fragrance from the shrine of prayers as gratitude for
mercies.”
108.--_Wednesday, November 4, 1846._
WITH never-ending regret I own my rash error. The withdrawal of yr.
future notice must seriously injure me, yet I deserve it, and humbly
pray that He who knows to “err is human,” will pardon me, soften yr.
heart, and make you happy.
109.--_Saturday, November 14, 1846._
“TO err is human.” RETURN or WRITE.--Je.
110.--_Friday, January 29, 1847._
H. J. F.--Use the utmost diligence; “avoid excitement.”
111.--_Wednesday, February 10-11-12, 1847._
W. W. must PROCEED.
112.--_Monday, February 15, 1847._
W. WILL PROCEED. Thanks.
113.--_Saturday, April 10, 1847._
RUFFTUM--WRITE to ADAM, or POOR old Joseph.
114.--_Saturday, May 1, 1847._
CAROL.--Remember, if unable, WRITE.--May 1.
115.--_Friday, June 25, 1847._
THIS is NOT the Opportunity.--“REFUSES.”
116.--_Saturday, July 17, 1847._
NOTICE.--“3rd of May, 1845”--London, July 16, 1847.
117.--_Saturday, October 2, 1847._
O. Z. Why should O. Z. abandon all; his case is not hopeless. J. & A.
must have an INTERVIEW.
118.--_Monday, November 8, 1847._
D. D. It has COME; I see no other course; consider it again; against yr.
wishes I will not press it. Remember ever what I told you, that the
relationship exists.
119.--_Friday, December 10, 1847._
DEAR FITZY, yr. presence is REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY. Delay not a moment.
The little birds, nutmegs, silver beaks, &c., greet you.--Mov.
120.--_Thursday, December 30, 1847._
MASS.--How could I write, I have not heard since the 11th December. She
has left, but will not go till after the 12th of January.--L. L. B.
121.--_Saturday, March 4, 1848._
TO E****.--Your POETICAL EPISTLES of 1846, 1847, and that of the present
year, have been safely RECEIVED. Their originality is greatly admired.
The party to whom these letters are addressed adopts the medium of this
journal to express his thanks to his fair but unknown correspondent for
the interest she appears to take in him. E**** is entreated not to carry
into effect the threat conveyed by the concluding lines of her last
poem.--B. P. Feb. 15, 1848.
122.--_Tuesday, March 21, 1848._
I Hereby APOLOGIZE for having wounded the feelings of a parent, and beg
to express my regret at what has occurred.--O. L.--Monday, March 20,
1848.
123.--_Saturday, May 20, 1848._
IF O WRITES any more he will be SHOWN UP.
124.--_Monday, May 22, 1848._
PENITEUS.--BEYOND HOPE or CHANCE.
125.--_Tuesday, September 12, 1848._
TO ----. Though every hope were blasted, the worst news would be
preferable to this cruel and lengthened suspense.--September 11, 1848.
126.--_Wednesday, September 13, 1848._
F. P. S. M.
127.--_Friday, September 15, 1848._
M. R.--August 21 (named in yr. note), £218 14_s._ 6_d._ August 21.
CHANGED ALL.--B. M.
128.--_Saturday, September 16, 1848._
R. Z.----89.--TWO DULY RECEIVED.--H. H.--September 15, 1848.
129.--_Saturday, September 23, 1848._
TO “INTEREST.”--To numbers 1, 5, 6, 7, & 8, Yes; to numbers 2, 5 feet 8½
inches; and to number 9, No.--X. Y. Z.
130.--_Friday, September 29, 1848._
ZILE is BETTER. Dodson and Fogg have the things and I think will bring
the affair to a satisfactory conclusion. My next letter will be directed
further on.--Mugger.
131.--_Friday, October 20, 1848._
NOVEMBER was NAMED. Will that explain?--B.--
132.--_Monday, October 30, 1848._
TO C. C. E.--The REPORT is totally False. There has been a sale of
furniture lately at the private house that I left eight months ago.
133--_Monday, November 13, 1848._
ALFRED.--Affairs are looking dark, but I will explain on Thursday.
134.--_Saturday, November 25, 1848._
YES. Address, 49, B. S. D. R.
135.--_Thursday, December 14, 1848._
NO.--To-morrow, where we last parted, 6 p.m.--R. S.
136.--_Monday, December 18, 1848._
WELCOME the Family Friend.
137.--_Tuesday, December 19, 1848._
YOU know my wishes, my ardent wishes--what more can I say or do? I am
ill and powerless, but as well disposed as ever. Why not arrange
matters?--B. M. T. A.
138.--_Monday, January 1, 1849._
TO A FRIEND.--All the GOOD WISHES that a real and sincerely heartfelt
affection for you can dictate are OFFERED at this season.
139.--_Tuesday, January 2, 1849._
TO C. P. A.--Your affectionate friend has no other means but to appeal
in this way to your generous heart. Pity and forgive. Forget yr. pride
and unkindness with the past year. May health and happiness for ever
attend you. Bear no grudge, and add not contempt to his silent grief by
a dead cut.--January 1, 1849.
140.--_Thursday, January 4, 1849._
A FRIEND’S Reply.--The expressions addressed “To a Friend” on New
Year’s-day, are deeply valued by him, and are interpreted as an
acknowledgment and virtual approbation of a letter which he wrote you in
November last, signed with his initials. Your reply can be signified by
advertisement or the post.
141.--_Thursday, January 11, 1849._
TO WALTER.--I am LOST (if you please).--Zion. Poet’s-corner, Westminster
Abbey.
142.--_Friday, January 12, 1849._
TO ZION, Poet’s-corner, Westminster.--If Walter refuses write to J. B.,
King’s newspaper office, Chancery-lane, who wishes most particularly to
see you.
143.--_Thursday, January 25, 1849._
V. A.--“There is a tide,” &c. Yours, F.
144.--_Monday, February 5-& 6-7-8-9-10, 1849._
TORQUAY.--ONE LINE, no matter what its import, is asked by one on the
verge of distraction. Silence may be thought more merciful, but it is
mistaken kindness to suppose so.
145.--_Wednesday, February 7, 1849._
D. V.--Would my DEAREST FRIEND honour me with some indubitable proof of
my position?--F.----a.
146.--_Wednesday, February 21, 1849._
F. F.--IS KNOWN. B. trusts they are happier than they so kindly but
erroneously imagine B. to be. F. F. will write again as before; but
directed Mr. B., who when this is read will be where F. F. once wished
to be.--Farewell.
147.--_Wednesday, February 21 and March 1-2-3-5-6-7-8-9-10-12-13-14-15,
1849._
TORQUAY.--A person, who is much interested in the ADVERTISEMENT which
appeared in this paper relating to the above place, is extremely anxious
to have some FURTHER PARTICULARS, which may serve as a guide.
148.--_Friday, March 16, 1849._
ABERGAVENNY.--Everything is intelligible.--FOUR.--March 14th.
149.--_Wednesday, March 21, 1849._
TO JENNY, GREENWICH, county of Kent.--Two C. C.’s.--
150.--_Wednesday, March 21, 1849._
ABERGAVENNY.--Everything is intelligible. One. March 21.
151.--_Saturday, March 24, 1849._
NO DOORMAT TO-NIGHT.
152.--_Saturday, March 24, 1849._
IF the ONE mentioned yesterday is the First, I am really glad
circumstances are so well known, and sincerely wish something could be
done to alleviate this dreadful suspense. A direct communication would
be perfectly safe.--FOURTH and SIXTH.
153.--_Tuesday, March 27, 1849._
TO E. C. W.--Content.--J. P.
154.--_Wednesday, March 28, 1849._
ABERGAVENNY.--Everything is Intelligible.--One--a An Interview is
urgent. Express, 27th of March.
155.--_Friday, March 30, 1849._
ABERGAVENNY.--An interview or a speedy answer is urgent. Express--29th
March.
156.--_Friday, March 30, 1849._
MOST EARNESTLY as --l and --r DESIRE an INTERVIEW --l fears he dare not
venture further, as the authenticity of the communication is open to
doubt and the distance so great he may imperil his highest hopes. --l
and --r entreat you will not withdraw yr. attention from the Fourth and
Sixth.
157.--_Thursday, April 5, 1849._
WHILE “Bitter Wrong” remains unredressed, even the gold of California
would be profitless as “Slate Stanes.”
“The Wrong must be Right,
“And the Dark must be Light,”
Ere Heaven will smile again.--DRN ZWYANUNM.
158.--_Monday, April 9, 1849._
WHILE “Bitter Wrong” remains unredressed, even the gold of California
would be profitless as “Slate Stanes.”
“The Wrong must be Right,
“And the Dark must be Light,”
Ere Heaven will smile again.--Years have not mitigated the torture, DIE
ZIGEUNERINN.
159.--_Tuesday, April 10, 1849._
ABERGAVENNY-- FOUR -- T -- 8th April.
160.--_Tuesday, April 17, 1849._
THE BARON is open to MEET ALL THE WORLD for any amount a side. The
stakes will be forthcoming at the old place on April 29, 1849, at 6.
161.--_Wednesday, April 25, 1849._
“RIEN AU--DELA.”--Geneviève et Louise. Avril 23, 1849.
162.--_Thursday, April 26, 1849._
T. Y. Z.--A month ago. A LETTER is where you wished.--M.
163.--_Saturday, May 5, 1849._
STOP THAT PIANO.--J. P.
164.--_Tuesday, May 8, 1849._
TORQUAY.--Let there be no more mistakes. If this advertisement is
answered all is well.
165.--_Thursday, May 10, 1849._
LOUISE.--D. E., Mai 9.
166.--_Friday, May 11, 1849._
LOUISE.--D. E., May 10.--GEDULD und HOFFNUNG.
167.--_Friday, May 25, 1849._
MARIE.--Mai 23.
168.--_Wednesday, June 6, 1849._
TORQUATUS.--RESURGAM.
169.--_Saturday, June 9, 1849._
MARIE, LOUISE et GENEVIÈVE, Juin 7.
170.--_Tuesday, June 12, 1849._
LINCOLN.--TUESDAY.
171.--_Wednesday, June 13, 1849._
B**EKS, COME FORWARD like a man, and frankly state the whole, and not
act so cowardly. An arrangement is possible.--De Beauvoir, June 9, 1849.
172.--_Friday, June 22, 1849._
MARIET, June 20. Quelques jours seulement.
173.--_Saturday, June 23, 1849._
DOULAMICUS, I WILL.
174.--_Friday, June 29, 1849._
CLIEVE or A.--27th June.
175.--_Friday, July 13, 1849._
MARINE.--AT NEITHER.--NUL.--July 11.
176.--_Monday, July 16, 1849._
MARINE.--AT EITHER.--BILL.
177.--_Saturday, July 21, 1849._
GENEVIÈVE.--Si, après la semaine prochaine.--Juillet 18.
178.--_Tuesday, July 24, 1849._
S. R.--July 22.
179.--_Wednesday, July 25, 1849._
GENEVIÈVE.--Oui, il est arrivé.--Juillet 23.
180.--_Wednesday, August 1, and September 1, 1849._
ALL WELL in BRUNSWICK.
181.--_Friday, August 3, 1849._
JEAN.--Très bien:--August 2.
182.--_Thursday, August 16, 1849._
LOUISE.--Attendez.--Août 16.*
183.--_Monday, August 20, 1849._
RUNAWAY.--Come to the bosom of yr. best friend--it bleeds for you, and
will receive you without reproach. Come immediately. If means are wanted
they shall be supplied.--August 18.
184.--_Tuesday, August 21, 1849._
GENEVIÈVE.--Ayez de l’ESPERANCE.--Août 20.
185.--_Thursday, August 23, 1849._
OU NE LE MERITE PAS.--Août 21, 1849. N. K. S.
186.--_Tuesday, August 28, 1849._
LOUISE.--Ou le voit bien, mais ou n’y pense pas à présent.--Août 27.--D.
E.
187.--_Saturday, September 15, 1849._
LOUISE de K. S.--GEDULD und HOFFNUNG. September 13.--R. L.
188.--_Thursday, October 4, 1849._
ONE.--YES. 2.--Yes, If I should fail.--ALFRED.
189.--_Monday, October 8, 1849._
ALFRED.
190.--_Tuesday, October 9, 1849._
IT IS ALL OFF.--R.
191.--_Wednesday, October 10, 1849._
MARIE LOUISE.--D. K. Vous avez bien raison de n’avoir point de
peur.--Normandie. Octobre 8.
192.--_Tuesday, November 20, 1849._