He whispered something of his notions to the detective; Rathbury nodded a comprehensive understanding.
"Let's hope we're going to see--something!" he said.
In the secretary's room a man waited who touched his forelock respectfully as the heads of the procession entered.

Myerst set the box on the table: the man made a musical jingle of keys: the other members of the procession gathered round.
"As we naturally possess no key to this box," announced the chairman in grave tones, "it becomes our duty to employ professional assistance in opening it.

Jobson!" He waved a hand, and the man of the keys stepped forward with alacrity.
He examined the lock of the box with a knowing eye; it was easy to see that he was anxious to fall upon it.

While he considered matters, Spargo looked at the box.

It was pretty much what it had been described to him as being; a small, square box of old cow-hide, very strongly made, much worn and tarnished, fitted with a handle projecting from the lid, and having the appearance of having been hidden away somewhere for many a long day.
There was a click, a spring: Jobson stepped back.
"That's it, if you please, sir," he said.
The chairman motioned to the high official.
"If you would be good enough to open the box, sir," he said.