Laurence, Bishop Bertrand Severus Mascarou, Tarbes, France, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1857 May 25

Laurence asks for enlightenment on a case. On September 9, 1850, Jacques Vidou, called Claviche and Claire Martin, Widow Chabot, French, were married at New Orleans by the justice of the peace. Shortly afterward the couple separated. Vidou returned to France. He was contemplating a new marriage when someone opposed him with the deed of his civil marriage to Claire. Vidou and his parents attacked this deed as voided by nullity. The civil court here declared the marriage null by a judgment of December 9, 1856, since neither one had observed French marriage laws. Vidou says they observed no religious formalities, but is his testimony trustworthy? Laurence asks Blanc to have parish records checked and also to state whether the decree of the Council of Trent regarding clandestinity had been published. The marriage could be valid. If Claire is living could Blanc question her. Signed by Fourcade ?, Vicar General. :: VI-1-l A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.