Now it came to pass that Gideon went forth and stood before the king, and said unto him:
“Now O king, thou hast hitherto hearkened unto my words many times when we have been contending with our brethren, the Lamanites.
“And now O king, if thou hast not found me to be an unprofitable servant, or if thou hast hitherto listened to my words in any degree, and they have been of service to thee, even so I desire that thou wouldst listen to my words at this time, and I will be thy servant and deliver this people out of bondage.”
And the king granted unto him that he might speak.