Le Ray?, Joseph, New Orleans, Louisiana, to Archbishop Anthony Blanc, New Orleans, Louisiana, 1857 June 18

Le Ray asks for a dispensation; he will give $25. He had made all arrangements for a religious and civil marriage when a man informed the priest that Le Ray was divorced. It is true but they have been separated for 5 years and she has two illegitimate children in the northern states. After the priest's refusal Le Ray told his fiancée that he could not marry her. She said she would poison herself. That is why Le Ray was married by the judge. Now they are very discontented. Le Ray has not heard from the divorced woman for two years. He has sent telegrams and has written but has not had a reply. She was in ill health; he believes she is dead. But he cannot swear to it. He and his wife bitterly repent their fault. He asks the dispensation so that they may have their union blessed by the Church. :: VI-1-l A.L.S. French 3pp. 4to.