Literature: There is a direct parallel between the end of verse 13 (“we have brought him before you; and now let us slay him”) and the beginning of 14 (“Ye shall not slay him, but bring him hither”). These two phrases are an intentionally contrasting parallel. Even though Mormon is quoting the conversation from his source, someone had to record it. It is quite likely that we are seeing only bits and pieces of some of the original text’s structure. As part of the official royal record, it is not surprising that conversations would be “enhanced” by literary devices.