It behoves us not to depart from the literal meaning of words, unless it is evident that the testator intended some other meaning.

Explanation

The literal sense governs unless clear evidence demonstrates a different intention; departure from the text requires proof, not conjecture.

Where this applies

• The literal meaning of the will should be followed unless there's clear proof the testator meant otherwise.
• We shouldn't depart from the plain text unless there's strong evidence of a different intent.
• You need proof, not guesswork, to justify reading a document differently from its literal words.

See also

• 10.1.12 It is guessing, not interpretation, that altogether departs from the letter.
• 10.2.10 From the words of the law there must be no departure.