שמואל א, פרק כ״ה, פסוק י״ב

Facing a blunt and harsh refusal, David's messengers realize that any further conversation with Nabal is pointless. They turn back empty-handed to deliver the disappointing and offensive news to their leader. Their departure is immediate and direct, as they simply turn around and go on their way [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This swift exit highlights that they leave the area at once, refusing to taste or eat anything that belongs to Nabal [מלבי״ם].

Upon returning to David, the young men provide a full report of the terrible response they received. They explain that Nabal was entirely unwelcoming, refused to give them anything, and went out of his way to insult David and his men [אברבנאל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Hearing this offensive message sparks a severe reaction from David. Immediately after receiving the report, he orders four hundred of his men to strap on their swords and follow him on a campaign of punishment [אברבנאל].