Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:
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George Leo Haydock
AD 1849
This night. Achitophel has a mind to show that he is not only an able statesman, but a good general. (Haydock)
On such occasions, expedition is of the utmost consequence, that the people may not have time to enter into themselves, or to concentrate about their lawful king. "Nothing is more delightful than haste in civil discord, where action is more requisite than consultation. "By delays, "he would give the wicked an opportunity to repent, and the good would unite together. Crimes are confirmed by rushing on; good counsels by deliberation. "Scelera impetu; bona consilia mora vales ere. (Tacitus, Hist. i.)