vi. I do not overlook the fact that honest certificates, especially if annually renewed, might give the matrons some perplexity, from reasons which need not be enlarged upon. Still, it seems to me, it would be well worth trying.
IV. Rules to be followed in giving Assistance.
Lastly. With regard to rules to be followed in giving assistance of whatever kind.
Need of Advice with a view above all to Security.
It seems to me most important that we should obtain the opinions both of hospital authorities and of a few able men of business, before laying down rules. The whole matter is so essentially mixed up with the tangible point of securing that the savings of these poor women should avail them in their age, that it is urgent to have sound practical advice as to letting nothing else imperil this. Security seems the cardinal point of the whole, and that is a question for men of business to answer.
Suggestions in detail.
The following suggestions toward obtaining it are offered.
1. Security of invested savings to be the first and main thing to be secured. Every other object should be subordinate to this.
2. If we decide upon aiding their savings, let the security of this aid be the main point. Invest all donations, annual or not; unless, should any hospitals contribute annually, it might be fairly considered that those contributions should be annually used.
3. The aim should be to enable all hospital nurses, of good character, to provide annuities for themselves, whether with or without assistance. I think assistance will be necessary.