Unfortunately, no affidavit was taken from him to that effect. With the
photograph before me, I realized at once that the claim was not an
honest one. I explained that the larger part of our policy had been
ceded to other companies and that some of them demanded, earthquake
affidavits with every claim; that while I regretted to put him to any
inconvenience, it would be necessary for him to produce this testimony.
He looked me squarely in the eye and said, "I'll sign it and swear to
it. Not a brick in the whole building was disturbed." He attached his
signature to the affidavit. I showed him the photograph and then stated
that we should be compelled to penalize him to the extent of thirty-five
cents on the dollar. As a matter of equity, there was little, if any,
liability under the policy. He shouted, "Fake!" "No," I replied, "simply
a matter of contractural rights and of justice. The picture is
absolutely bona fide." He left, emphatically stating that he would at
once "go to the bat." I suggested that he submit the matter to his
attorney. Fortunately for him, he had a wise one who promptly advised
that he accept the terms offered.
This is another angle of the settlement of the San Francisco losses - no
more nor less in fact, methods, and manner, than that with which other
legitimate companies had to contend.
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