19. And this is a copy of the letters that he sent to Onias:
20. "Arius, king of the Spartans, to Onias, the great priest: greetings.
21. It is found in scripture, about the Spartans and the Jews, that they are brothers, and that they are of the family of Abraham.
22. And since we know these things, you would do well to write to us about your peace.
23. But we also have written back to you that our cattle and our possessions are yours, and yours are ours. And so, we have commanded that these things should be announced to you."
24. And Jonathan heard that the leaders from Demetrius had returned again with a greater army than before, so as to fight against him.
25. And so, he departed from Jerusalem, and he met them in the region of Hamath. For he did not give them time to enter into his own region.
26. And he sent spies into their camp, and, returning, they reported that they planned to come upon them in the night.
27. And when the sun had set, Jonathan instructed his men to stand watch, and to be in arms, ready to fight, all night long, and he stationed guards around the camp.
28. And the adversaries heard that Jonathan was prepared, with his own, for warfare. And they were struck with fear and dread in their heart. And they kindled fires in their camp.
29. But Jonathan, and those who were with him, did not know about it until morning. For they saw the lights burning.
30. And Jonathan pursued them, but did not overtake them. For they had crossed the river Eleutherus.
31. And Jonathan diverted toward the Arabians, who are called Zabadeans. And he struck them and took their spoils.
32. And he regrouped and came to Damascus, and he passed through all that region.
33. But Simon went forth and came as far as Askalon, and the nearby fortresses, but he turned aside to Joppa and occupied it,