3 Review(s)

The title story is set in London and revolves around Henry Adams, an American clerk who finds himself stranded in the city without money. By chance, two wealthy brothers make him the subject of a bet. They give Henry a single £1,000,000 bank-note, which he cannot cash, but they want to see if he can survive for a month without spending any of it. The brothers wager that the mere possession of such an enormous sum will allow him to live comfortably by virtue of appearances alone.Indeed, Henry quickly discovers that doors open for him simply because of the bank-note. Shopkeepers, tailors, and hoteliers are eager to extend him credit, confident that anyone with such a large sum must be trustworthy. As his reputation grows, he is offered business deals and other lucrative opportunities, all while never having to actually spend the money.