While cleaning and rehousing part of MS 3667 (Learney Estate: Innes family papers), our Collections Care Assistant, Laura, found something rather surprising hidden between some pieces of correspondence.
The envelope reads, “Calligraphic puzzles written by Thomas Innes when confined to lying on his back for 5 months – sent to his son William 1866.”
Inside were four little cards, each with what appeared to be random lines and coloured shapes.
That is, until you tilt them first one way, then the other…
“It is an honour for a man to cease from strife.” Proverb 20:3, KJV
“Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18, KJV
“Boast not thyself of tomorrow for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverb 27:1, KJV
“He that is slow to anger is better than he that is mighty” Proverbs 16:32, KJV
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