Wm. J. & M. S. Vesey, Inc. v. Hillman

Plaintiff-appellant (Vesey) entered into a lease for two lots and the improvements thereon, with the Lincoln National Bank and Trust Company of Fort Wayne, acting as the trustee of the estate of C. W. Khune. The lease covered the period from July 1, 1948, through June 30, 1953, during which time Vesey operated a wholesale and retail florist business at the leased premises.

On several occasions, Vesey had discussed with a trust officer of the bank the possibility of purchasing the leased property. While the trust officer agreed that Vesey would have an opportunity to bid at the appropriate…