Hidden compartment
The mystery deepened when I stumbled upon a hidden compartment in one of the old trunks. Its presence was subtle; I nearly missed it entirely.

A loose partition in the trunk’s bottom revealed a concealed space. The compartment contained nothing at first glance, but closer inspection showed something hidden in the seams.
With trembling hands, I pulled open the lid to find a bundle of what appeared to be letters. Their contents promised to be revealing.