Page:The Wisconsin idea (IA cu31924032449252).pdf/74

 "Claim 31,805. ; liability $300.

"Insured was killed Dec. 5, 1908. He had had a policy in the Columbus Mutual Benefit, which expired Dec. 7th. A Phoenix Preferred policy was issued and paid for on Nov. 28th, it being understood between the insured and the agent that the Columbus Mutual Benefit policy would be dropped. At the time of the insured's death, the Phoenix Preferred's agent had possession of both policies. On Dec. 9th—four days after such death—such agent wrote to his company, asking it to send him an indorsement to the effect that the policy was not in force until the Columbus Mutual Benefit's policy expired. The company replied, asking the agent to forward the policy to the home office. The company then apparently put an indorsement on the policy in accordance with the suggestion of the agent. The company was sued and defended as per such indorsement—and won.

"In the opinion of the committee this was not only fraud but forgery, and those responsible therefor should be presented to the criminal authorities for indictment."

"Claim 31,958. ; liability $300.

"Policy concededly issued and paid for. Insured killed in grain elevator, while performing his duties. His widow, who had possession of the policy, delivered it, within two days after the accident, to the company's