Animns testandi
Black's Law Dictionary · Henry Campbell Black, M.A. · 1910
Black's Law Dictionary
An intention to make a testament or will.
Farr v. Thompson, 1 Speers (S. C.) 105.
Animus ad, se omne jus ducit. It is to the intention that all law applies. Law always regards the intention. Animus hominis est anima scripti. The intention of the party is the soul of the instrument.
3 Bulst. 67; -Pitm. Prin. & Sur. 26.
In order to give life or effect to an instrument, it is essential to look to the intention of the individual who executed it