16. We inform the king that if this city is built and its walls are restored, you will be left with nothing in Trans-Euphrates.
17. The king sent this reply:To Rehum the commanding officer, Shimshai the secretary and the rest of their associates living in Samaria and elsewhere in Trans-Euphrates:Greetings.
18. The letter you sent us has been read and translated in my presence.
19. I issued an order and a search was made, and it was found that this city has a long history of revolt against kings and has been a place of rebellion and sedition.
20. Jerusalem has had powerful kings ruling over the whole of Trans-Euphrates, and taxes, tribute and duty were paid to them.
21. Now issue an order to these men to stop work, so that this city will not be rebuilt until I so order.
22. Be careful not to neglect this matter. Why let this threat grow, to the detriment of the royal interests?