The oldest surviving Valentine’s Day letter in English dates from February 1477, when Margery Brews addressed her betrothed, John Paston, as her “right well-beloved Valentine.” She wrote to her fiancé because her father, who disapproved of her upcoming marriage, refused to provide what John’s family considered an appropriate dowry. In her letter, Margery nobly offered her understanding should Paston choose to withdraw his affections.
Fortunately for these lovers, Margery’s mother, Elizabeth, stepped into the dispute and played the diplomat in the family. In her letter to Paston, she wrote: “On Friday it is Saint Valentine’s Day, and every bird chooses itself a mate. And if you would like to come on Thursday night ... I trust God that you will speak to my husband, and I will pray that we will bring the matter to a conclusion.”
