58 pp. "...if the public mind can be directed or induced to consider the importance of Life Insurance, hundreds, nay, thousands will be found ready and anxious to avail themselves of the safeguard vouchsafed to them by this eminently moral, humane, and Christian Institution." A short story, pro-life insurance of course, with an appendix show legislation enacted or pending in New York in 1866 regarding life insurance. An odd little book, fairly scarce. Very pretty gold Victorian designs on red cover, boards rubbed at tips, front and back board both darkened near fore-edge. Spine bottom chipped away, spine tip bit frayed. Interior brown victorian end papers splitting away at gutter, front ep has price sticker scar. First blank has an elaborate presentation inscription (to J. Adams Allend...? from G.H. Blake?), inscription has ghosted onto title, some foxing, otherwise clean.; 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall