Newspaper columns known as lonely-hearts columns usually have messages that make this very clear. There are people genuinely seeking a long-term relationship and marriage. This is a perfectly legitimate desire and such columns perform a very useful function. You may hope that a relationship may indeed turn into along-term relationship. Sometimes they do. The wastage is, however, very much less if intentions and needs are known up front. Some people may be intimidated by the thought that they are being sized up as potential 'life partners'. Others would be delighted. As with all other codes there is no way of ensuring honesty and avoiding abuse. Someone may come in as a 'long-term investment' but may actually have very short-term plans.