One variant of the scam may date back to the 18th or 19th centuries, as a very similar letter, entitled "The Letter from Jerusalem", is seen in the memoirs of Eugène François Vidocq, a former French criminal and private investigator. One of these, sent via postal mail, was addressed to a woman's husband, and inquired about his health.

Another variant of the scam, dating back to circa 1830, appears very similar to what is passed via email today: "Sir, you will doubtlessly be astonished to be receiving a letter from a person unknown to you, who is about to ask a favour from you...", and goes on to talk of a casket containing 16,000 francs in gold and the diamonds of a late marchioness. It then asked what to do with profits from a .6 million investment, and ended with a telephone number.

Letter 1 Hello Honey, How are you doing today over there, I just came back from my office and I has very busy day as I was on meeting throughout the day but somehow feel weak but I will sleep and wake up later in the night.

I do not know how to express the conflicting emotions that have surged like a storm through my heart all day.

And 38% of Americans who are single and actively looking for a partner have used online dating at one point or another.Honey you are like a dream to me I never thought would ever come true for me.When I think about you here and I know you are thinking of me there too it makes me feel so good here.You are more wonderful and lovely in my eyes than you ever were; and my pride and joy and gratitude that you should love me with such a perfect love are beyond all expression. I wish that I could just call your name when I needed you here and that you would be there.However, knowing that you love me so much is enough for now, I know someday we will meet and spend our lives with each other.