10. that is, take away the kingdom from the house of Saul and establish the throne of David over Israel as well as Judah, from Dan to Beer-sheba.”
11. Ishbaal was no longer able to say a word to Abner, he feared him so.
12. Then Abner sent messengers to David in Telam, where he was at the moment, to say, “Make a covenant with me, and you have me on your side, to bring all Israel over to you.”
13. He replied, “Good, I will make a covenant with you. But one thing I require of you. You must not appear before me unless you bring back Michal, Saul’s daughter, when you come to present yourself to me.”
14. At the same time David sent messengers to Ishbaal, son of Saul, to say, “Give me my wife Michal, whom I betrothed by paying a hundred Philistine foreskins.”
15. Ishbaal sent for her and took her away from her husband Paltiel, son of Laish,
16. who followed her weeping as far as Bahurim. But Abner said to him, “Go back!” So he turned back.
17. Abner then had a word with the elders of Israel: “For some time you have been wanting David as your king.