state your case , she said , secure in the power position behind the desk . there was another pause as his words sank in . i listened as he walked toward the door . i was a little surprised that you didnt already know . `` my lord , you once asked me how it was that i was cut . '' i dont have any evidence no , and you wont find any . in only a few years time , no important decision was made without mercy 's input . 