⁹ “Who are you?” he asked.

“I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment^(A) over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer^[a](B) of our family.”

⁴ I thought I should bring the matter to your attention and suggest that you buy it in the presence of these seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, do so. But if you^[a] will not, tell me, so I will know. For no one has the right to do it except you,^(A) and I am next in line.”

“I will redeem it,” he said.

⁶ At this, the guardian-redeemer said, “Then I cannot redeem^(A) it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself. I cannot do it.”^(B)