Hmm, mm-hm. It's a good point, but I'm still not sure if it applies to house elves as it does to brownies. Brownies leave if you insult them by leaving them clothes. House elves don't have a choice in the matter, they _must_ take the clothes, and they _must_ leave service.

Winky doesn't feel offended, or patronized when she's given clothes and freedom, she is distressed by a connection that is severed.