see www.manxnotebook.com/cd_only/libasd/index.htm for explanation - marriage contracts 90% found within the sales as involved property transfers that had to go before court post 1704; there were many handfast (ie oral) bargains pre 18th C which would appear to have been given before witnesses (possibly at marriage itself or at some wedding meal) - there were many other m/cs which were ack'd before the deemster (ie to confirm that parties had agreed) but not involving land were kept privately with many surfacing as wills - the index to these deeds + summaries of a great many are on my CD