"O, my lord," she cried, "I would return to those who love me and sorrow for me in the dear land of Israel. I crave of thee but one thing, my lord—freedom."
"It is granted thee," said Naaman. "Thou art no more a slave."
The little maid caught his hand and covered it with kisses. Claudia stooped and lifted her to her feet.
"It grieves me to part with thee, little one," she said. "But I shall be glad that thou art happy with those whom thou dost love."
"I shall never forget thee nor cease to love thee," murmured Leah.
"Maiden, hast thou no further desire?" asked Naaman.
"What more could I desire, my lord, since thou hast given me my freedom?" replied the little maid.
"Thou art poor," said Naaman. "Hast thou never craved riches?"
"Not for myself, my lord," answered Leah. "But I have often wished that my parents were not forced to labor so hard."