SIR GEORGE HUNTER’S WILL IS DISCUSSED.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 19231, 19 November 1930, Page 9

SIR GEORGE HUNTER’S WILL IS DISCUSSED.

DIFFERENCE OF OPINION BETWEEN THE EXECUTORS Per Press Association WELLINGTON, November 19. Two executors of the will of the late Sir George Hunter, Cyril Paul Hunter and Thomas Percy Hunter, in the Supreme Court to-day, asked for a decree of probate, Lady Hunter and her seven-year-old child being named as defendants. Lady Hunter is the third executor. . The defence is that the will and codicils propounded by plaintiffs were not duly executed according to the provisions of the statute; that deceased, at the time they were purported to have been executed, was not of sound mind, memory and understanding; and that at all times from September 26, 1929, until the date of his ejeath he was so impaired physically and mentally by illness that he was unable to manage his affairs or form a rational opinion as to or originate ideas as to the extent of his property or the claims of others upon his bounty, and did not understand the nature of the dispositions of the will and codicils or their effect. As a counter-claim, Lady Hunter claims that Sir George Hunter duly executed his last true will on August 21, 1924, and the Court is asked to pronounce for this will and codicil of the same date in solemn form. Mr A. Gray, for the plaintiffs, said he was at a loss to understand if it was suggested that there was any unfairness about Sir George Hunter’s bequests. He said Lady Hunter took an active part in the discussions. Handsome provision had been made for the relatives, and particularly the wife and daughter. But for the making of the codicils, counsel claimed, the proceedings would never have been brought. It was most unfortunate, to say the least, that his generous treatment of his wife and child should be challenged, and any reflection cast upon his testimentary capacity. Alexander Dunn, barrister, of Wellington, said he was the sole owner of the business, Bethune and Hunter, which had acted as agents, for Sir George, at least since 1910. Sir George’s estate was sworn at £175,000. Witness gave details of the instructions received from Sir George concerning his bequests. Sir George volunteered everything, and was as clear as ever he had been. He was ill .physically, but knew what he was talking about. Although witness had no doubt about Sir George’s testamentary ability, he suggested to Lady Hunter, and she agreed, that deceased should be medically tested. The will was read to Sir George on October 13. Doctors Steele and M’Donald were present. Dr Steele asked Sir George Hunter if he knew he was signing his will and if he knew the. contents. Sir George said he did. Witness saw Sir George about twice a week, and at no time had he seen any sign of mental weakness. He always appeared alert and keen when talking about his busi-: ness affairs.