Exodus 5:19

"And the officers of the children did see that they were in an evil case, when it was said, Ye shall not diminish aught from your bricks, yours daily tasks."

Pharaoh's refusal to believe his own petty officers shows that his charge of "idleness" was only an excuse. His hatred against God's people would be intensified and enforced with the most cruel reprisals against them. No wonder the "officers" faced the situation with fear and consternation. Their case was indeed "evil." However, it is apparent that Moses had anticipated the outcome of this maneuver on the part of some of the Israelites themselves, and appropriately was awaiting their return from Pharaoh's presence.