How do we know King Louis Napoleon accidently left his hanky?

On June 26, 1810 Louis Napoleon, brother of Napoleon Bonaparte and King over Holland, visited the dutch family Van Hoorn. After his departure his silk handkerchief was found. Of course the King had more important things to do than return to pick up his hanky. These were stressful times for Louis Napoleon as his brother, the emperor of France, was angry about the low tax contribution and few soldiers he received from Holland. He needed the money and men for his plans to conquer Europe. Shortly after his visit to the Van Hoorn family Louis Napoleon was uncrowned by his brother Louis Napoleon and exiled to England. 

Somebody in the Van Hoorn family or staff recorded the discovery of the handkerchief on the back of a nine of hearts playing card. At the time playing card backs where often unprinted, to save costs. Left over playing cards from incomplete packs could be used for other purposes, like writing notes. There were also drawings made on playing cards​​.

I collect secondary used playing cards from all countries. They are small documents from the past that often tell a fun and interesting story. My collection includes more than 4,000 reused single playing cards, dating from late 15th century to present. The nine of hearts with manuscript note on the handkerchief of Louis Napoleon is one of the most remarkable cards from my collection. The handkerchief I have too!

A fascinating subject for lectures

For years I give lectures on the secondary use of playing cards, with a lot to show and tell. Actually my stories are about many facets of history, the cards indicate the subjects. These lectures, in lengths from 30 minutes to 2 x 45 minutes, I give to service clubs, women's associations, antique dealers, collectors, historians, schools, universities and other interested parties. In the Netherlands as well in Belgium, Germany, England, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Portugal, Canada and the USA. It is not my profession but a hobby.

If you like to know more about my lectures, please send me an email: gejusvd@xs4all.nl