Ammon has a remarkable way of getting his investigators into just the position he wants them. With Lamoni, he had committed him to believe his words before he had taught him even one principle (Alma 18:22-23). With Lamoni's father, he threatens his life so he can release his fellow missionaries and preserve the kingdom of Lamoni. Even with a drawn sword and threats of violence, Ammon is able to develop a relationship of trust with the old king. He demonstrated that his motives were pure, that he was a man of integrity, and that he had a great love for Lamoni. The result was that the king was greatly astonished and wanted to learn the gospel (v. 27).