Dear Sir: Responses to an Ad Placed by a Nineteenth Century Murderer

William Corder placed this personals ad in the Sunday Times of London on November 25, 1827:

MATRIMONY.—A Private Gentleman, aged 24, entirely independent, whose disposition is not to be exceeded, has lately lost the chief of his family by the hand of Providence, which has occasioned discord among the remainder, under circumstances most disagreeable to relate. To any female of respectability, who would study for domestic comfort, and willing to confide her future happiness in one every way qualified to render the marriage state desirable, as the advertiser is in affluence. Many very happy marriages have taken place through means similar to this now resorted to, and it is hoped no one will answer this through impertinent curiosity; but should this meet the eye of any agreeable lady, who feels desirous of meeting with a sociable, tender, kind, and sympathising companion, they will find this advertisement worthy of notice. Honour and secrecy may be relied on. As some little security against idle applications, it is requested that letters be addressed (post-paid) to A.Z., care of Mr. Foster, stationer, No. 68, Leadenhall-street, which will meet with the most respectful attention.

What follows is a selection from the fifty-four unretrieved letters sent in response to this ad.

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Sir,

If you will take the trouble to walk on the south side of Northampton-square between the hours of twelve and one on Monday next, with a white pocket-handkerchief in your hand, I shall be there, and may perhaps have an interview with you; if my affection is engaged, your happiness will be the constant study of

[signed]

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Sir,

In perusing the Times paper of Nov. 25th, I observed your advertisement for a partner in the marriage life, where you say any female of respectability who would study for domestic comforts, and willing to confide in you, led me to suppose that fortune was not your object, which induced me to make the application, though I must say Prudence whispers it contrary to the rules of decorum, and I believe this is the first time I have ever deviated from her precepts. I am a female of respectability; my father has been a very respectable tradesman, and a man of good fortune, but Providence has now placed me in a more humble situation; I have had a good plain education, but no accomplishments. If I have been too presumptuous in addressing one who styles himself an independent gentleman and a man of honour, I trust this may be buried in oblivion….

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Sir,

By accident I saw your advertisement in the Sunday Times: its seeming honour and...