WIFE “SOLD” FOR 10/-.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 8, Issue 89, 13 April 1916, Page 7

WIFE “SOLD” FOR 10/-.

HER CHILDREN CALLED HER “AUNTIE.” Six months’ imprisonment was passed at Manchester Assizes on Daniel Cassidy (51), blacksmith; Elizabeth Cassidy (48), and Robert Patrick Corr (51), labourer, who were concerned in what the judge described as an extraordinary and sordid marriage case.

The woman was charged with bigamy, and the man with aiding and abetting. The story was that the Cassidys married in 1892, and there was a large family. Two years ago the Cassidys and Corr became friendly, and there was little doubt, said counsel, that Corr and Mrs. Cassidy entered upon th e most intimate relationship. Last July Corr went to live with the Cassidys, and Corr seemed to have arranged with Cassidy that he should go through the form of marriage with Mrs. Cassidy. On August 28 the three set off to Chorltoa-on-Medlock Registry Office, where Corr married Mrs. Cassidy, who gave the name of Elizabeth N. Combes. Daniel Cassidy signed the register in the name of George Dyer, and he wag paid 10/- for his time in witnessing the marriage (laughter). In receiving the money he humorously remarked, “It is like selling your wife for 10/-.”

The honeymoon was spent at the Cassidy’s house. Cassidy declared that his wife had led an immoral life for years, and she and Corn tormented him so much about getting married that he consented. thinking they would go away and leave him to himself.

Mrs. Cassidy said her husband insisted on her children calling her “auntie” when Corr was present. Judge Bnilhache remarked that it was difficult to say which cf the prisoners was the worst, but lie thought Daniel Cassidy was.