12. While Absalom was offering the sacrifices, he summoned David’s advisor Ahithophel, who was from Giloh, to come from his hometown. So the conspiracy grew stronger, and Absalom’s following grew.
13. A messenger came to David, reporting, "The hearts of the Israelites have gone over to Absalom."
14. Then David told all the servants who were with him in Jerusalem, "Come on! We have to run for it, or we won’t be able to escape Absalom. Hurry, or he will catch up with us in no time, destroy us, and attack the city with the sword."
15. The king’s servants said to him, "Your servants are ready to do whatever our master the king decides."