It was empty, but that was as I expected.

I could not see a key anywhere, but the heap of gold remained.

I went through the door in the corner and down the winding stair and along the dark passage to the old chapel.

I knew now well enough where to find the monster I sought.
The great box was in the same place, close against the wall, but the lid was laid on it, not fastened down, but with the nails ready in their places to be hammered home.
I knew I must reach the body for the key, so I raised the lid, and laid it back against the wall.

And then I saw something which filled my very soul with horror.