"Had he a deposit box in any bank?"
"Yes."
"Have you examined that?"
"No. I haven't found the key, and I have concluded to procure an order of court before having the lock forced."
"You are the executor under the will made in October, are you not?"
"I am."
Having been informed by the chief of detectives that court was then in session, Nick proposed that Feversham go at once to the judge, state the exigency of the case and obtain an order for the opening of the box.
"The court can act under the assumption that there is only one will in existence, the one which is in your possession. Of course," Nick went on, "the time is too short for the institution of regular proceedings; but under the circumstances the court may appoint you special administrator, and in that capacity you can go ahead."
"Yes. I think it can be done," returned Feversham, "and I'll make the attempt at once. I sha'n't be gone long. Will you wait here, or shall we arrange for another meeting?"
"If there is no objection," said the coroner, "we will wait."