TO PATRIOTIC UNMARRIED LADIES. - I am a soldier, just returned from the wars. Have lost a leg, but expect to get a cork one; have a useless arm, but will be called brave for it; was once good-looking, but am now scarred all over. If any patriotic young lady will marry me, why fall in line! The applicant must be moderately handsome, have an excellent education, play on the piano and sing; and a competency will not be objectionable. One with these requirements would, doubtless, secure my affections. - Address Capt. F.A.B., MERCURY Office. (Nov. 9, 1862)
or...
IF THE LADY WHO, FROM AN OMNIBUS, SMILED on a gentleman with a bunch of bananas in his hand, as he crossed Wall Street, corner of Broadway, will address X., box 6,735 Post Office, she will confer a favor. (March 21, 1866)
I love that. Though it needs proper formatting:
If the lady who,
From an omnibus smiled
On a gentleman with
A bunch of bananas in his hand
As he crossed Wall Street
Corner of Broadway,
Will address X
PO Box six seven three five,
She will confer
A favor