The blow which opened David's way to the throne was given about the time he had been sorely distressed. Those who commit their concerns to the Lord, will quietly abide his will. It shows that he desired not Saul's death, and he was not impatient to come to the throne.
SDA Bible Commentary (limited)
Volume 1-7
4. How went the matter? The appearance of the young man, with his clothes rent and earth upon his head (v.2), gave evidence that Israel had suffered a disastrous defeat. David was anxious for details.