16 Do not think your handmaid a ne'er-do-well; my prayer has been prompted by my deep sorrow and misery."

17 Eli said, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him."

18 She replied, "Think kindly of your maidservant," and left. She went to her quarters, ate and drank with her husband, and no longer appeared downcast.