Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who [was] over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.
Ver. 18. Sent Adoram, who was over the tribute.] But the sight of such an officer, he might well think, would enrage them rather. Herein therefore Rehoboam was also ill-advised: he should have considered that the rebellious multitude more regard commotioners than commissioners, and are more guided by rage than by right: flocking together, as clouds cluster against a storm, whilst violence and obstinacy, like two untamed horses, draw their desires in a blindfold career.
To flee to Jerusalem.] Whither he returned lighter now by a crown than when he went forth: yet in better condition than was once our Henry VI, when deposed by Edward IV; he was not only bereft of all, but also sent again prisoner to the Tower the same day that he had a year before been carried through the city of London, as it were, in triumph, and had heard the shouts of the commons in every street crying, God save King Henry. a
a Speed.