An acquaintance has informed me of the existence of a book, The Agony Column of The Times 1800-1870, ed. Alice Clay, which compiles cryptic messages left in The Times newspaper. Most of the them are of the ‘missed connections’ variety now found on Craigslist: I saw you, think you’re hot, send me a letter here so we can talk, etc. Others seem to be coded messages of some kind, or cries to an unjust universe.
December 2, 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.
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.
June 21, 1845
S. B. is a STRICT Disciplinarian, and not afraid of a rather unruly Pupil.
June 21, 1853
IF F.C.H is living she is implored to WRITE.
All is forgiven. Nothing forgotten.
"And ever and anon of grief subdued
“There comes a token.”
June 12, 1856
I have the most beautiful horse in England, but not the most beautiful lady. Your silence pains me deeply. I cannot forget you. – M.
September 9, 1859:
TO the HEART OF STONE – Why torture the victim longer? Bright prospects shine if you meet on the instant. He has been ruined over and over in screening you. It is the last attempt. If you oppose him now, a few days will put it out of his power to do all he desires for you – this is more than can be told. He forgives from his heart and will never allude to the past. If he has offended, he hopes, alas, to be forgiven. Let him see the child and kiss it. The nurse shall bear the note fixing time and place. Let it be where you now are.
February 24, 1866
SECRET. – “Our Corner” – “11th of March 1863”.
Old letters and reminiscences bring you back; why drive me to the life I lead? Why [sic] have made me spend such a miserable month, when the present and future are entirely yours? – “SECRET.”