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MEXICO. 



been four times godmother to Don N.'s children, 

 it was impossible she could marry him. Neverthe- 

 less, the Fathers (compassionate persons !) wished 

 to give the unhappy couple another chance ; and 

 agreed to refer the question to a learned doctor in 

 the neighbourhood, skilled in all difficult ques- 

 tions of casuistry. This sage person decided that, 

 according to the canons of the church, the mar- 

 riage might take place, on payment of a fine of 

 four hundred dollars : two for the poor in pocket, 

 and two for the poor in spirit, namely the priests. 

 But to expiate the crime of marrying a quad- 

 ruple godmother, a slight penance must also 

 be submitted to in the following manner. Don 

 N. was to place himself on his knees before 

 the altar, with a long wax-candle burning in his 

 hand, while his intended lady stood by his side, 

 holding another : this was to be repeated in the 

 face of the congregation for one hour, during 

 every Sunday and fast-day throughout a whole 

 year ; after which purifying exposure, the parties 

 were to be held eligible to proceed with the mar- 

 riage. 



Don N., who chose rather to put his con- 



