3. And they went to Rome and entered into the senate house, and they said, "Jonathan, the high priest, and the nation of the Jews, have sent us to renew the peace and alliance, as it was before."
4. And they gave letters to them, to those in each place, so that they would lead them into the land of Judah with peace.
5. And this is a copy of the letters that Jonathan wrote to the Spartans:
6. "Jonathan, the high priest, and the elders of the people, and the priests, and the rest of the people of the Jews, to the Spartans, their brothers: greetings.
7. Now, some time ago, letters were sent to Onias, the high priest from Arius, who reigned then among you, so that you would be our brothers, just as the copy that is written below states.
8. And Onias received the man whom you had sent with honor. And he received the letters, in which was conveyed the alliance and peace treaty.
9. We, though, have no need of these things, having for our solace the sacred books, which are in our hands.
10. We prefer to send to you, so as to renew the brotherhood and friendship, lest we should, in effect, become a stranger to you, for much time has passed since you sent to us.
11. Therefore, we will remember you, at all times without ceasing, in our solemnities and other days, when it is fitting, in the sacrifices that we offer, and in our observances, just as it is fitting and right to remember brothers.
12. And so, we rejoice at your glory.
13. But many tribulations and many wars have surrounded us, and the kings who are around us have fought against us.