"I am a servant, as my fathers were for generations; yet I could not say to him, 'Lo, master, my daughter! She is fairer than the Egyptian, and loves thee better!' I have caught too much from years of liberty and direction.

The words would blister my tongue.

The stones upon the old hills yonder would turn in their beds for shame when I go out to them.

No, by the patriarchs, Esther, I would rather lay us both with your mother to sleep as she sleeps!" A blush burned Esther's whole face.
"I did not mean you to tell him so, father.

I was concerned for him alone--for his happiness, not mine.