I can only say that such a request is horrible to me beyond all words.

Such degradation and cruelty to the gentle and virtuous Almah is outrageous and forever impossible; no, we will not deprive her of a single one of those blessings which she now enjoys." I turned away in despair.
At length one jom the Chief Pauper came to me with a smile and said, "Atam-or, let me congratulate you on this joyous occasion." "What do you mean ?" I asked.
"You are to have your ceremony of separation." "Separation!" I repeated.
"Yes," said he.

"Almah has given notice to us.

She has announced her intention of giving you up, and separating from you.

With us the woman always gives the announcement in such cases.