Hamilton Whaley was a prosperous lawyer in Tampa, Florida. He was happily married, had five great kids, a big comfortable house in a pleasant community. He was active in church and making more money than he ever dreamed of. He was also a partner in one of the leading law firms in the state, a vast organization with nearly 70 lawyers.  Then in September, 1976, he had a minor car accident. Fortunately he was injured only slightly and recovered quickly. When he returned home from the hospital his telephone began to ring. His wife took the calls. "Mrs. Whaley," the caller would say, "I just read in the Hillsborough County Bar Association Bulletin about your husband's death. I want to express my regrets." 

Betty, Whaley's wife, was taken aback at first, but the calls persisted. They finally di…