In re the Estate of Hayes

Kaufman, S.

This proceeding strikingly illustrates the risk which persons not versed in the law, even though highly educated otherwise, take in drawing their own wills. Ellen Hayes, the testatrix, was for many years professor of astronomy and applied mathematics in Wellesley College and attained considerable distinction in educational fields. In 1923 she published a book called “ How Do You Know,” which contains a chapter entitled “ Words and Their Meaning.” Thereafter she wrote her own will which, ironically enough, is now the subject of bitter controversy in this court as to its meaning.

Omitt…