[19] One gentleman thinking that the Greenwich pensioners would afford good subjects, went to the hospital with that purpose. But they all gave their ages at 90 and above, and when the parish registers were searched for the dates of their birth, it was discovered that they had exaggerated, in some cases ten and in others twenty years. Every one claimed the distinction of being nonogenarian, and the consequence was that the stock-broker was completely baffled in his attempt. CHAP. XIII. FRAUD IN LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANIES--ITS EXTENT--ITS REMARKABLE AND ROMANTIC CHARACTER.--JANUS WEATHERCOCK.--HELEN ABERCROMBIE--HER DEATH.--FORGERY OF WAINWRIGHT--HIS ABSENCE FROM ENGLAND--HIS RETURN, CAPTURE, AND DEATH.--INDEPENDENT AND WEST MIDDLESEX--ITS RISE, PROGRESS, AND RUIN OF ALL CONCERNED. In 1830, two ladies, both young and both attractive, were in the habit of visiting various offices, with proposals to insure the life of the younger and unmarried one. The visits of these persons became at last a somewhat pleasing feature in the monotony of business, and were often made a topic of conversation. No sooner was a policy effected with one company than a visit was paid to another, with the same purpose. From the Hope to the Provident, from the Alliance to the Pelican, and from the Eagle to the Imperial, did these strange visitors pass almost daily. Surprise was naturally excited at two of the gentler sex appearing so often alone in places of business resort, and it was a nine days’ wonder.