Almost the only objection which could be brought with justice against
the offices prior to 1841, was the habitual practice of refusing
delicate and doubtful lives. Having, in the early part of their career,
taken all who came without inquiry, they rushed into the opposite
extreme, and refused all who were not undeniably strong. There were
indeed a few offices which professed to insure invalids; but they had
no statistical information; and they rarely, if ever, accepted a life
unless it was obviously a good one. In 1833, Mr. Gilbart wrote, “We may
hereafter have tables that shall show the expectation of life, not only
in regard to people in health, but also to those afflicted with every
kind of disease;” and in 1841 Mr. Neison established the above office,
the success of which has confirmed the opinion entertained of his great
ability.