Brewster's Millions

by George Barr McCutcheon

"Brewster's Millions" by George Barr McCutcheon is a comedic novel written in 1902. Montgomery Brewster inherits one million dollars from his grandfather, but a second inheritance offers seven million—if he can spend the first million within one year, keeping nothing. The challenge proves surprisingly difficult under strict conditions: he must show business sense, limit gambling and charity, and keep the arrangement secret. As friends try to curb his spending and investments accidentally multiply his wealth, Brewster races against time while risking love and reputation.