24. I also will write them a friendly letter offering high positions and gifts, so that they will support me.”
25. He wrote:“King Demetrius to the nation of the Jews, greetings.
26. We are delighted to learn that you have kept your obligations under our treaty, remained loyal to us, and have not gone over to the side of our enemies.
27. Now if you continue to remain loyal to us, we will reward you well.
28. We will grant you exemptions from many taxes and allow you other privileges.
29. I hereby grant all the Jewish people release and exemption from payment of regular taxes, salt taxes, and other special taxes.