CAB(i)
11 This is the contents of the letter which they sent to him: To King Artaxerxes from your servants the men of the region beyond the river:
12 Be it known to the king, that the Jews who came up to us from you, have come to Jerusalem, the rebellious and wicked city which they are building, and its walls are set in order, and they have established the foundations of it.
13 Now then let it be known to the king, that if that city be built up, and its walls completed, you shall have no tribute, neither will they pay any tribute, and this injures kings.
14 And it is not lawful for us to see the dishonor of the king. Therefore have we sent and made known the matter to the king,
15 that examination may be made in your fathers' book of record. And you shall find, and you shall know that this city is rebellious, and does harm to kings and countries, and there are in the midst of it from very old time refuges for runaway slaves. Therefore this city has been made desolate.
16 We therefore declare to the king, that if this city is rebuilt, and its walls are set up, you shall have no peace.