At the hearing in either of the cases provided for in §§ 1702 and 1703 of this title, the Court of Chancery shall take such legal evidence as shall be offered, for the purpose of ascertaining whether the presumption of death is established; or it may appoint a master to take such testimony, and report the findings thereon. No person shall be disqualified to testify by reason of relationship as husband or wife to the presumed decedent, or of interest in the estate of the presumed decedent.