A wealthy grandfather set up a unique challenge for his children and grandchildren: he hid money and left behind a trail of clues.

It was around eight oclock in the morning when the whole family gathered at the solicitors office in Oxford, each one brimming with excitement at the thought that a wealthy relative had left behind a substantial inheritance. As the solicitor was running late, the tension among those waiting seemed to thicken by the minute. Emily, Roberts eldest daughter, was beside herself with nerves, eager to find out if she had been included in the will. I could see she could barely sit still. Come on, Aunt Mary, show a little respect. Were meant to be in mourning. After all, our father isnt with us anymore, Mark piped up.

Dont call me aunt, please. Im not that old. Just call me Mary, replied Mary, slightly offended. Funny how you believe makeup and beauty treatments will keep you young forever, Mark retorted, clearly irritated.

At last, the solicitor arrived and entered the office. He glanced around the crowded room and took a file of papers from his desk. Is everyone ready for me to read the will? he asked, and we all nodded silently. With a mysterious smile, the solicitor began reading out Roberts final testament.

I leave my estate to all of you. However, not everyone will be able to claim it. I have decided to set you a real treasure hunt, just as my mother used to do for me and my siblings when we were young. You must start from my childhood village in the Cotswolds. Our family never had much, but we lived happily together. As the eldest son, I inherited a chest from my mother, and inside it, youll find your treasure. But only the most resourceful will discover the key. It is hidden somewhere in the housefar from easy to find. I wish you all the best of luck! For a moment, the room was completely silent as everyone tried to come to terms with the fact that, even after his death, the old man had managed to turn this into a game.

It was Mary who finally broke the silence. My husband, children, and I are heading off to the village right now. Anyone care to join us in the search for the key?

Mark and I arent chasing after any chest or key, said Alice, Roberts younger daughter. Knowing our father, nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems. Im sure theres another riddle tucked away somewhere. Were not interested in the money.

The eldest daughter set off with her husband and a few other relatives. They tried everything: climbing up into the barn to look among the hay and peek at the animals, rifling through piles of straw, and scrambling over old wooden fences, all under the amused gaze of the village locals. In the process, Emilys designer dress was reduced to tatters. At long last, they found the key and opened the old chest. To everyones astonishment, all it contained was a note and a heap of lollipops.

All my savings have been given to charity, and what youve found is what you truly deserve. Thank you for bringing some laughter to my fellow villagers, read the note, signed by my late father.