Sir

The members of the D.F.C. have asked me, as the Treasurer, to find out whether the belief is well grounded that the funds w^d allow of an increase of their benefit ²

The Club was registered in        according to the [schedule] of registration by M^r [illeg]—³ There have been 3 distributions of surplus cash by permission of an Actuary.

Each member received 10^s per week for sickness during first 6 months & afterwards 5^s.— Burial fee 5£.

They wish to receive 12^s weekly during sickness for the first 26 week & afterwards 6^s instead of as at present 10^s & 5^s. Also to receive 10£ for burial fee instead of 5£, with the power of drawing half the 10£ (i.e. 5£) in the case of the death of a wife. I enclose the balance-sheet for the last year,⁴ (with some appended facts) which I hope will give you sufficient information to judge by; but if not any other information will be supplied by me.— As the T & member of this small Club (51 members) may I request that before considering your answer you will have the kindness to inform me what your fee will be for officially informing me whether any increment to the benefits can be safely granted.

I beg leave to remain, Sir | your obliged & obedient serv | Charles Darwin

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