Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab
He could not be easy, even though a messenger was dispatched, but pressed Joab still:
but howsoever, let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi;
only permit me to go after him, though not as a messenger:
and Joab said, wherefore wilt thou run, my son?
having a great affection for him, and concerned that he should take trouble on him to no purpose:
seeing thou hast no tidings ready;
no news to carry, but what Cushi is gone with, and so can have no audience of the king, nor any reward from him.