When he was returned. The parable of the Talents gives the experience of the servants during their master’s absence (Matt. 25:16-18), and also mentions that the master’s return came “after a long time” (v. 19).
He commanded these servants. Matthew adds that the master’s purpose in calling them was to reckon accounts. The nobleman desired to know how the servants had proved themselves as administrators of his property, and planned to assign them responsibilities as officers in his kingdom, each according to the ability he had demonstrated.