The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

COURTSHIP CUSTOM

THE COURTSHIP IS DONE THROUGH A CORRESPONDENT IN MEXICO. THE MAN
SENDS A DOCTOR, TEACHER, OR PRIEST TO THE WOMAN HE WANTS TO MARRY.
IF THE WOMAN SAYS THE MAN CAN COME AND SEE HER AFTER FIFTEEN DAYS IT
USUALLY MEANS SHE IS NOT INTERESTED. IF THE WOMAN SAYS FOR THE MAN
TO COME AFTER EIGHT DAYS IT MEANS SHE IS INTERESTED. DURING THE
COURTSHIP THE MAN BUYS GIFTS FOR THE WOMAN.

Submitter comment: THE INFORMANT BECAME FAMILIAR WITH THIS CUSTOM WHEN HE MET HIS WIFE
IN MEXICO.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 10-25-1971