Minny was silent.
"You who must know all, tell me what you know of this matter."
"Nothing, sir, dishonorable to my master or his daughter."
"No prevarication, minion. Whatever you know of, as having passed between Miss Della, and—and—this man, I wish you to state plainly here."
"I can tell you no more, sir, than you already know."
"By what means has this acquaintanceship been carried on? I know there has been no opportunity for much personal intercourse. Have you letters?"
"If I have, sir, they are the property of my young mistress, and as such, I will deliver them to no one without her consent."
"Fool! do you forget that you are my slave?"
"As such, my first duty is to the mistress you have bade me serve."
"Are the letters in your possession?"