3 Dem. Sur. 360 | N.Y. Sur. Ct. | 1885
It is conceded that the paper propounded as the will of this decedent was properly executed. I find upon the evidence that, at the time of its execution, its maker was possessed of testamentary capacity, and was not swayed by any such influences as the law deems undue. The instrument is, therefore, entitled to probate.
I am asked, in accordance with the provision of
This is not a direction, it will be observed, to apply the income of a fund, but a direction to devote the fund itself to the purpose prescribed by the testatrix. The fact that the bequest is given to the executrix “ to remain with her forever,” when it is considered in connection, on the one hand, with the limitations under which she is placed as regards the purpose to which she may apply it, and, on the other hand, with the discretion allowed her as regards the time of its expenditure, affords no justification for the . claim that the testatrix contemplated the preservation and investment of the principal and the expenditure of income alone. As the executrix is empowered to consume the entire residue at once, or to draw upon it from time to time, as in her judgment may seem advisable, the bequest is not open to the objection that it involves an unlawful suspension of the power of alienation (Robert v. Corning, 89 N. Y., 225). The object for which the trust is created is one for which the law recognizes the right of a testator to make provision (Matter of Frazer’s accounting, 92 N. Y., 239; Emans v. Hickman, 12 Hun, 425; Gilman v. McArdle, 12 Abb., N. C., 414; Matter of Hagenmayer’s Will, id., 432). There are no grounds on which I can pronounce this provision invalid.
