Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
II: Shades of Aladdin explained
Montgomery Brewster inherits one million dollars unconditionally from his grandfather, Edwin Peter Brewster, and begins to navigate the sudden wealth, the public attention, and the advice of friends and acquaintances, including Colonel Drew
What happens
Montgomery Brewster inherits one million dollars unconditionally from his grandfather, Edwin Peter Brewster, and begins to navigate the sudden wealth, the public attention, and the advice of friends and acquaintances, including Colonel Drew's warning about promoters.
Themes in this chapter
- Wealth and Extravagance
Monty's sudden inheritance and the initial bewilderment of managing a million dollars.
- Family Legacy and Feuds
The legacy of Edwin Peter Brewster and the expectations placed on Monty.
- Moral Dilemmas and Restrictions
Monty's internal conflict between enjoying his fortune and respecting his grandfather's memory.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Inherits one million dollars and struggles with the weight and strangeness of his new fortune.
- Oliver Harrison
Urges Monty to prepare for potential breach of promise suits and is retained to protect him from blackmail.
- Colonel Drew
Advises Monty to be cautious with his money and invites him to dinner.
- Edwin Peter Brewster
Deceased grandfather whose will leaves Monty a million dollars without restrictions.
- Barbara Drew
Mentioned as possibly influencing the relationship between Monty and Colonel Drew.
Key passages
“Two days after his grandfather's funeral a final will and testament was read, and, as was expected, the old banker atoned for the hardships Robert Brewster and his wife had endured by bequeathing one million dollars to their son Montgomery.”
Two days after the funeral, the will was read, and as anticipated, the grandfather left Montgomery one million dollars, making up for the struggles his parents had faced.
The inheritance is formally announced.
“It was his without a restriction, without an admonition, without an incumbrance.”
The money came with no strings attached, no warnings, and no conditions.
Emphasizes the unconditional nature of the inheritance.
“The rich young man is always a tempting morsel.”
A wealthy young man is an easy target for those looking to take advantage.
Colonel Drew's warning to Monty about promoters.
