Monologue

Love Tokens Monologue from Every Man in His Humour

From Every Man in His Humour by Ben Jonson

any · romantic · 1:39 min

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To the Editor of the Every-Day Book. Sir,--It was the custom in England in “olden tyme,” as the ancient chronicles have it, for “enamoured maydes and gentilwomen,” to give to their favourite swains, as tokens of their love, little handkerchiefs about three or four inches square, wrought round about, often in embroidery, with a button or tassel at each corner, and a little one in the centre. The finest of these favours were edged with narrow gold lace, or twist; and then, being folded up in four cross folds, so that the middle might be seen, they were worn by the accepted lovers in their hats, or at the breast. These favours became at last so much in vogue, that they were sold ready made in the shops in Elizabeth’s time, from sixpence to sixteen-pence a piece. Tokens were also given by the gentlemen, and accepted by their fair mistresses; thus ascribed in an old comedy of the time:-- Given earrings we will wear Bracelets of our lover’s hair; Which they on our arms shall twist on our wrists. I am, &c. H. M. LANDER King’s Bench Walk, Temple. For the Every-Day Book.

About this piece

The character reflects on the customs of love tokens in historical England, reminiscing about the romantic gestures exchanged between lovers.

20s · joy · love · romance · tradition · courtship

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