You have probably already seen this, but it worth a second look:

Sentences taken from actual letters received by the Welfare Department from applications for assistance.

I am writing to the Welfare Department to say that my baby was born two years old. When do I get my money?

I am forwarding my marriage certificate and six children. I had seven but one died and was baptized on one sheet of paper.

Mrs. Jones has not had any clothes for a year and has been visited regularly by the clergy.

I cannot get sick pay. I had six children, can you tell me why?

I am glad to report that my husband who was missing is now dead.

This is my eighth child. What are you going to do about it?

Please find for certain if my husband is dead. The man I am living with can’t eat or do anything until he finds out.

I am very annoyed to find that you have branded my son illiterate, as this is a lie; I was married to his father a week before he was born.

In answer to your letter, I have given birth to twins in the enclosed envelope.

In accordance with your instructions, I have given birth to a boy weighing ten pounds, four ounces. I hope this is satisfactory.

I am forwarding to you my marriage certificate and my three children, one of whom was a mistake as you can see.

My husband got his project cut off two weeks ago and I haven’t had any relief since.

Unless I get my husband’s money soon I shall be forced to lead and immortal life.

You have changed my little boy to a little girl. Will this make any difference?

I haven’t had any children yet as my husband is a bus driver and works day and night.

I want my money as quickly as I can get it. I have been in bed with the doctor for two weeks and he doesn’t do me any good. If things don’t change, and improve I will have to send for another doctor.