"And where is the chest at present?"
"There at the castle, under guard."
"And why did you let it remain there? It ought to be here under your own care."
"Yes; but it is so riveted to the wall that we could not remove it without tearing up the wall also."
"Then why have you not taken the money into your own custody? Some unknown person or persons may force the lock."
"That lock? Why, we tried it in every way, for the tax-commissioner would have liked to examine its contents to make sure as to the amount of taxes due. But we could not find a locksmith capable of using the three keys belonging to the locks in the proper way."
At this I spoke out. "If," I said, "my uncle has indeed willed away his ready money to the Maticza, he must assuredly have instructed them how to get at their money. To me, at least, he disclosed the secret of the lock, and I know how to apply the keys properly."
"Bravissimo! That settles the question. A clearer piece of evidence cannot exist. The court cannot decide otherwise than in your favour."
"Then try to expedite the formalities. You can do it."
"I can't. The parties must be informed at what time the court holds its session; they have to appear before the court, and introduce testimony. All this takes a month at least."