18. Then King David said, “Do not hide the truth. Answer me one question.”The woman said, “My master the king, please ask your question.”
19. The king said, “Did Joab tell you to say all these things?”The woman answered, “As you live, my master the king, no one could avoid that question. You are right. Your servant Joab did tell me to say these things.
20. Joab did it so you would see things differently. My master, you are wise like an angel of God who knows everything that happens on earth.”
21. The king said to Joab, “Look, I will do what I promised. Bring back the young man Absalom.”
22. Joab bowed facedown on the ground and blessed the king. Then he said, “Today I know you are pleased with me, because you have done what I asked.”