שמואל ב, פרק י״א, פסוק י״ד

The severe problem facing David remains unresolved. Because Uriah never returned to his home, it would soon become obvious to everyone that the child waiting to be born was illegitimate. Faced with this unavoidable reality, David decides on a new course of action as morning arrives.

He drafts a letter that appears to contain standard military orders and addresses it to Joab, the commander of the army. David then gives the letter directly to Uriah, having him personally carry the message to its destination.