Genesis 44:10

10 The steward said, "Very well then, but we won't go that far. Whoever is found with the chalice will be my slave; the rest of you can go free."

Genesis 44:10 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 44:10

And he said, now also [let] it [be] according unto your
words
Not according to the full extent of their words, but according to a part of them; that be only should be a servant that was found guilty; so moderating the punishment which they had fixed, and were willing to submit to, and therefore could not object to what he next proposes: he with whom it is found shall be my servant;
speaking in the name of Joseph, whom he represented, and who had directed him what to say: and ye shall be blameless;
acquitted of the charge, and pronounced innocent, and let go free.

Genesis 44:10 In-Context

8 Why, the money we found in our bags earlier, we brought back all the way from Canaan - do you think we'd turn right around and steal it back from your master?

9 If that chalice is found on any of us, he'll die; and the rest of us will be your master's slaves."

10 The steward said, "Very well then, but we won't go that far. Whoever is found with the chalice will be my slave; the rest of you can go free."

11 They outdid each other in putting their bags on the ground and opening them up for inspection.

12 The steward searched their bags, going from oldest to youngest. The chalice showed up in Benjamin's bag.