New York Consolidated Laws, Debtor and Creditor Law - DCD § 72. When insolvent required to produce his non-resident wife

Where the petitioner's wife resides without the state, the court, or a judge thereof out of court, may, upon the application of any creditor, make an order, requiring the petitioner to bring his wife before the court, at the hearing or trial, to the end that she may be examined as a witness.  A copy of the order must be personally served upon the petitioner, at least three weeks before the hearing.  If it appears, upon the hearing, that service could not, with due diligence, be so made, in consequence of the petitioner's sickness or absence, the court may, in its discretion, adjourn the hearing or trial, and prescribe the time and manner of service of the order for the adjourned day.  If, after due service, the petitioner's wife does not attend at the time and place appointed, the petitioner is not entitled to his discharge, unless he proves, to the satisfaction of the court, by his affidavit, or upon his oral examination, or otherwise, that he was unable to procure her attendance.