In case such refused or unclaimed freight shall be in its nature perishable, then in order to protect the interests of all concerned, it may be sold as soon as it can be. The proceeds of such sale shall be applied to the charges of transportation, storage and demurrage on such freight and all other lawful charges assessed against it, as well as any legitimate expense connected with the sale thereof, and the balance shall be accounted for to the rightful owner, upon satisfactory proof of ownership.