Mike's will

Mike’s will turns his death into a final act of provision: it leaves each member of his community at least a million dollars, with no strings attached, while anticipating how the inheritance will be managed. Its terms convert private wealth into both individual freedom and a practical foundation for the group’s future.

Terms and Intended Use

Jubal explains that every member is to receive at least a million dollars, and likely substantially more even after taxes. The bequest places no conditions on the money. He expects the beneficiaries may choose to spend some of it on temples and similar community needs, but emphasizes that the will does not prevent them from buying yachts or using the funds as they please. The absence of restrictions makes their discretion part of the inheritance rather than an exception to it.

Management and Succession

The will also anticipates the problem of administering the inherited capital. Joe Douglas is to remain manager for anyone who chooses to leave their money invested, at the same salary as before. Jubal predicts that Douglas will not stay in the role for long, after which management will pass to Ben Caxton. Ben accepts that the arrangement can be made in his name and says he will hire a professional businessman named Saul, distinguishing responsibility for the funds from the work of day-to-day financial management.

Legal Effect and Aftermath

Jubal expects some waiting but is confident that no one will seriously challenge the will, which he says Mike has arranged to withstand opposition. He treats the matter as settled enough to move on, asking whether the bill has been paid and when the group can leave. Ben reminds him that they own the hotel, a small but telling consequence of the community’s new financial position. Soon afterward, they take to the air without police interference as the town’s unrest subsides.

Significance

The will’s terms preserve a contrast between substantial wealth and freedom from imposed obligations. The inheritance can support temples, remain invested under professional management, or be spent privately; none of those choices is dictated by the document. Its practical arrangements also carry Mike’s influence beyond his death, providing a route for both personal independence and continued collective activity.