Now, the top of the outer case was soon broken away, and the small box, stronger even than the one in which it had reposed, was lifted out. It was well made all its ends being neatly dove-tailed together. There was a lock to it, but no key to open it. Ralf and Gegg were disposed to wrench off the lid with the crowbar, so impatient were they to see what was inside; but to this Richard Merton objected.
"That's a strong, serviceable box, and I wouldn't like it broken," he said. "Mrs. Merton has an aptitude for picking locks, and I think she can manage this one. If she can't--well, it'll be time enough then to break it." In reality he cared little whether she were able to pick the lock or not, for he did not value the box in the least. He thought it might contain something that it would not be wise to allow other eyes to look upon. Such was his motive in wishing to have it taken home intact. But they had no suitable, conveyance for its immediate removal, as it was the weight of lead, and their horses were not sufficiently quiet to bear an awkward burden.
Sign in to unlock this title
Sign in to continue reading, it's free! As an unregistered user you can only read a little bit.
