Mr. Chipfellow's Jackpot

"Mr. Chipfellow's Jackpot" by Dick Purcell is a science fiction short story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the life and death of Sam Chipfellow, a wealthy and eccentric inventor known for his groundbreaking contributions to science. The story explores themes of mortality, greed, and the unexpected nature of good fortune as it delves into the dynamics of Chipfellow's will, which promises a unique treasure hunt for his enormous riches. The plot centers on Chipfellow’s ingenious will, which stipulates that the key to accessing his hidden wealth is a specific thought aimed at a vault he has built. Upon his death, a massive public frenzy ensues as thousands of people, hopeful of unlocking the vault, line up to try their luck. Despite numerous attempts over an extended period, no one succeeds in opening the vault until a young girl named Susan makes a heartfelt and innocent appeal, leading to the surprising reveal of the vault's secrets. The story subtly critiques the nature of ambition and desire through the contrasting motives of the eager crowd and the purity of a child's thought.