Laurence, Bishop Bertrand Severus, Tarbes, France, to Bishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1849 March 19

He writes in the interests of two of his dioceans, married in a civil marriage, who wish to be married by a priest. By a judgment rendered June 28, 1848 by the New Orleans court, the divorce was given to Alphonse Noel Brière and Marie Contant, married 7 years earlier. On July 17, 1848, a justice of the peace married Honoré Abadie and the above Marie. They returned to their native country and asked to have a Catholic marriage. But this a difficult. If Brière's death is not proved, the union of Marie and Abadie cannot be blessed. Laurence asks Blanc to have the records searched. Marie says the marriage took place in 1840 or 1841. Brière left on business immediately after and has never been heard from. The person bringing this letter will bring back the reply. V-5-k - L.S. - French - 4pp. - 4to. - {4}