Ilene:
Don't remove the ripple glass! It is there to diffuse or reduce the glare
from direct sunlight.  It is used historically when the stained glass in
the window has minimal "staining" , i.e. painting of decorative faces,
angel wings, etc. that would have diffused the light. The glass layer also
acts as a first defense against rocks. There should be breathing holes in
the jamb frame of the glass, maybe some later zealous painter has filled
them up. Look for them.
Spencer Leineweber, Hawaii