* The object of this society is purely philanthropic being to relieve the frightful amount of matrimonial destitution now so alarmingly prevalent.
Perhaps the united classes are not aware that there are at this moment many, many individuals, of one-and-twenty to thirty years, and upwards, now dragging on their existence in a state of cheerless celebacy; the female portion of them without a protector, the male without nobody to look after their things.
The Wife Assurance Society will place within reach of almost every man, a partner of his joys and a soother of his sorrows; as well as a decided ornament to his establishment.
For the accommodation of persons anxious for immediate felicity, a large number of hands will be continually ready for disposal on the following scale of fees:
A good serviceable wife $10
with accomplishments $15
pretty $23
intellectual $26
of superior beauty and fascinating manners $27
extra superfine in every respect, all that imagination can conceive $31
Monied wives at one per cent, each on their capital. Ladies are respectfully invited to register their names gratis.
PS - The amiability of all wives guaranteed, if required, on payment of one shilling extra.
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(So you see, men of Craigslist, your early-Californian counterparts encountered similar misfortunate in dating Bay Area women. Good luck to all of you!)
ps - this was an excerpt in one of my thesis books: "Old SF - the Biography of a City" by Doris Muscatine.
pps - if i were for sale, i'd cost no less than $31, being just 23, smart and cute and all...