John Ford e-mailed me the following transcript of the 1848 marriage bond for John Martin and "Litha" Smith.
Know all men by these presents, That we John Martin and Hardin H. Hanby do hold and firmly bond into the Commonwealth of Virginia and his succesors in Office in the just and full sum of one hundred and fifty dollars, the payment whereof will and truly be made, we bind ourselves, our heirs, executors and adminstrators jointly, and severally firmly by these presents. Sealed with our seals and dated this 23 day of June 1848.
The Condition of the above obligation is such that whereas, the above bound John Martin hath this day obtained from the Clerk of Patrick County Court a license for his inter marriage with Litha Smith of said County.
Now, if there shall be no lawful reason to obstruct said marriage then the above obligation to be void else to remain in full force and value.
John Martin (Seal)
H.H. Hanby (Seal)1672