25 SEPTEMBER 1869, Page 3

If it were possible, we should certainly have a run

just now on Insurance Companies. Another concern—the European Assurance Society—is threatened with a winding-up, and as the outstanding policies are said to be for over eight millions, the social misfortune, if the application should be found warranted, will certainly be as great as that caused by the failure of the Albert. The European has been even a greater amalgamator, representing now no less than 33 other companies. Besides its Life Insurance business, it has had the benefit of an Act of Parliament enabling it to undertake to guarantee the fidelity of Govern- ment employes and others, and it appears to have had a large business in connection with the Government services, just as the Albert had a large Indian business. The Directors of the Company, however, strenuously resist the application for the winding-up, not admitting the statement of the petition as to the want of funds to meet current demands ; and a contest of much interest may be looked for next Saturday, when the petition is again to be heard.