A carrier, in the exercise of a reasonable discretion, may sell any perishable property which has been transported to its destination, at public or private sale without advertising, if the consignee, on being notified of its arrival, refuses or neglects to receive the same and pay the legal charges thereon, or if upon diligent inquiry, the carrier is unable to find the consignee. The proceeds of such sale, after deduction of the freight charges and expenses of sale, must be paid to the owner or consignee upon demand.
N.D.C.C. § 8-03-10