This Day in History: 13 February 1706 — Peter Blake and the Crime of Bigamy

On 13 February 1706, Peter Blake married his first wife in Salisbury. Sixteen years later, he was tried at the Old Bailey for bigamy after marrying again while she was still alive. Found guilty in 1722, he was sentenced to be burnt in the hand, a common branding punishment of the era.

Quote of the Day: Wating for the postman

Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage captures the quiet drama of anticipation: “The sound of the letterbox is the smallest drumroll in life.” A warm reflection on expectation, imagination, and the small everyday moments that briefly pause time with the promise of possibility.

Advice of the Day: Valentine’s Card Courage

The Sage shares bold Valentine’s Day advice: choose the card that makes you slightly nervous. A funny “Advice of the Day” about romance, risk, and dangerous stationery.

Advice of the Day: Romantic Escalation

The Sage offers bold Valentine’s advice: ask what their ex used to buy — then go bigger. A hilarious “Advice of the Day” about romance, competition, and risky confidence.

Quote of the Day: Hanging a picture reveals more about the hanger than the art itself

Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage reflects on perfectionism at home: “No picture is ever straight enough for the person who hung it.” A humorous reminder that we’re often our own harshest critics — and that sometimes stepping back is all it takes to see things clearly.

This Day in History: 12 February 1819 — John Barker and the Albion Tavern Theft

On 12 February 1819, John Barker was tried at the Old Bailey for stealing wine-glasses, a pepper-box and other items from the Albion Tavern in Aldersgate Street. Found guilty after the goods were discovered hidden on him, the 46-year-old waiter was sentenced to three months’ confinement.

This Day in History: 11 February 1818 — George Tomkins and the Three Sixpences

On 11 February 1818, George Tomkins was tried at the Old Bailey for stealing three sixpences from his employers on Holborn Hill. Caught in the act by a shopman and found guilty, the 36-year-old porter was sentenced to one month’s confinement, highlighting how even small thefts were prosecuted in Georgian London.

Quote of the Day: A holiday begins long before the suitcase is opened

Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage celebrates the simple pleasure of planning a getaway: “Half the joy of a holiday lies in the maps you spread across the kitchen table.” A warm reminder that anticipation and imagination often bring as much happiness as the journey itself.

Advice of the Day: Holiday Planning

The Sage offers travel wisdom: choose your holiday destination based on how little you want to pack. A funny “Advice of the Day” about suitcases, stress, and sensible laziness.

Quote of the Day: The True Beginning of the Weekend

Today’s Quote of the Day from The Sage captures the true start of the weekend: “The weekend starts the moment you stop pretending to be productive.” A witty reminder that rest begins with honesty, and that productivity often fades long before the clock says it’s allowed to.