^{12 Ref} He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

^{13 Ref} And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

^{14 Ref} But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.

^{15 Ref} And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

^{16 Ref} Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.

^{17 Ref} And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.