A wish

Side opening Valentine's card of white lace paper embossed with figures of a male and female. In the centre a cream satin roundel is printed 'A wish This is affection's tribute; Friendship's offering; Whose silent eloquence, More rich than words, Tells of the giver's faith and truth in absence, And says 'Forget-me-Not'.

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.