Know all men by these presents that we, Charles Vessels and Charles Howard, are held and firmly bound unto his Excellency, the Governor of Kentucky, in the sum of fifty pounds current money to the payment whereof well and truly to be made to the said Governor or his successors, we bind ourselves, our heirs, jointly and severally, firmly by these presents, sealed with our seals and dated this 22 day of October 1799.

The condition of the above obligation is such whereas there is a marriage shortly intended between the above bound Charles Vessels and Catherine Howard, for which a license has issued.  Now if there be no lawful cause to obstruct the said marriage then this obligation to be void, else to remain in full force.

Charles Vessels, Charles Howard

Witness John Reed

October 15, 1799, to Mr. John Reed of Washington Court.

Sir, please to grant license for marriage between Charles Vessels and my daughter, Catherine Howard, and by so doing you will oblige your friend.  James Howard

Witness my hand and seal, James Vessels and Stephen Spalding.

Washington County, Kentucky