EXHIBIT IX

Additional Information Requested 
By the Deputy Commissioner by letter dated May 13, 1996 

The Department requested supplemental information which we address below.

1.   8 V.S.A. [SECTION] 3683(f) findings.

     We address the criteria under [SECTION] 3683(f) in order: 

     A.   The change of control of  HIVT  will have no impact on  its ability to
          satisfy the requirements for its Certificate of Authority to write the
          lines of insurance for which it is presently licensed.

     B.   As  discussed in the  Form A,  the  acquisition  of  HIVT will have no
          impact on  competition  in  insurance  in  Vermont or tend to create a
          monopoly therein.

     C.   The  financial  condition  of  Penn  Treaty is such as it will enhance
          the  financial  stability of HIVT.  (See Penn Treaty Form 10-K (Annual
          Reports) at Exhibits II through VI).

     D.   The terms  of the agreement are fair and reasonable to the hareholders
          of HIVT,  as concluded by Advest,  Inc. and HIVT's Board of Directors.
          See Exhibit I, pages 9 and 28-30.

     E.   Penn  Treaty  has  no  plans or proposals to liquidate  HIVT, sell its
          assets or consolidate or merge it with any other entity or to make any
          material change in its business, corporate structure or management.

     F.   We  believe  the  submissions regarding the post-acquisition Directors
          and Officers of HIVT demonstrate sufficient competence, experience and
          integrity such that the interests of the policyholders of HIVT and the
          public will be maintained.

2.   Extraordinary Dividends.

     The Proxy  Statement  contains a specific  disclosure  regarding  Vermont's
     extraordinary  dividend  provisions  as set  forth  in 8  V.S.A.  [SECTION]
     3685(c) and (d) at page 36.

3.   Tender Offers, Etc. 

     Other then the transaction reflected in the Proxy, there have been no other
     tender offers for,  requests or invitations  for tender offers of, exchange
     offers for, or agreements to acquire or exchange any securities of HIVT.