"
CHAPTER VII
RESTORED TO FREEDOM
After searching for a suitable place to settle, Ashmed purchased a
beautiful house not far from Antonio's home. The families exchanged
visits, and their friendly relations continued for years and years.
Antonio resumed his studies at the best colleges, his tuition being paid
by his friend and benefactor.
One day, at Eastertide, Antonio returned home for a short visit. Ashmed
and his family called upon Antonio, to whom they presented a letter
which they had just received. In it, Antonio read the greetings which
his friend, the lawyer, extended to him, together with thanks to him and
Ashmed for their kind helpfulness in securing his liberty for him.
On the following day, as the guests were all seated at the table, a
knock announced some strangers. They were the old fisherman and the
young sailor who had been captives with Antonio, but were now free and
had come to offer their thanks. It was a touching sight.
Ashmed said, "Don't thank me, but rather this boy. He is your
emancipator."
"Yes," said the old fisherman, "this is the boy who appeared to us, like
an angel, and comforted us as we sat in chains. We now lay our thanks
at his feet."
Antonio waved them back and said, "Thank my dear parents, for they
taught me by word and example; and everything I have done is due to
their training."
Then Antonio's father stepped into their midst and raising his eyes to
heaven, said: "All honor and praise we give to God.
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