If a new couple arrived in a neighbourhood and claimed to be married, they were very likely to be believed; proving otherwise was extremely difficult. In their own minds, they believed that they were married, and such a union was enough for them. For other couples, an informal proceeding of divorce and remarriage was practised by the simple expediency of moving house. Many friends, family and neighbours were happy to turn a blind eye to the legality of serial partnerships, as long as the children were still supported and the ordinary, day-to-day behaviour of the couple conformed to social
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