May your life be as pleasant as a fine summers day, And thy heart be as bright as the flowers so gay

The introduction of the penny post in 1840 meant sending cards became easier and cheaper. A thriving business developed in central London producing cards and card components. This card was originally in the collection of Jonathan King, a stationer and newsagent who ran his own business making cards on Essex Road.

This valentine's card has a hand painted illustration of a child gathering flowers from a garden and the verse: 'May your life be as pleasant as a fine summers day, And thy heart be as bright as the flowers so gay'. The scene is typical Victorian sentimentality, including the popular motifs of rhyme, flowers and children.