What does 2 Samuel 18:3 mean?

But the soldiers said, 'No, you can't come with us. If we have to run, they won't care about us. Even if half of us die, they won't care. But you're worth ten thousand of us. It's better if you stay in the city and help from there.' 2 Samuel 18:3 - Modern Text Bible

(The troops know David is the real target. They want to protect him, valuing his life above their own. They ask him to stay safe and support them from behind the lines.)