Valentine really put himself out, secretly marrying couples for love and for God, against the orders of Claudius II who thought that single men made better soldiers. He was beaten with clubs and beheaded for his efforts, (although did receive a sainthood so I guess there is a positive side), and despite all this, the anniversary of his execution went unremarked in our household. Chocolate, orchids and tulips were instead gratefully received by Justine from Martina, boss at the Waldhaus restaurant, which slightly sweetened the bitterness of having to serve spooning couples all night.
