10. And the rest of the nations whom the great and noble Osnapar deported, and settled in the city of Shomron (Samaria), and elsewhere in Beyond-the-River [Euphrates] wrote; and now
11. This is the copy of the letter that they sent unto him, even unto Artachshasta HaMelech; From thy avadim, the men Beyondthe-River [Euphrates]; and now
12. May it be known unto the Melech, that the Yehudim which came up from thee to us are come unto Yerushalayim, building the rebellious and the wicked city, and finishing its walls, and repairing the foundations.
13. Be it known now unto the Melech, that, if this city be built, and the walls set up again, then they will not pay tax, tribute, or duty, and so thou shalt damage the royal revenues.
14. Now because we have covenant maintenance ("share the King's salt") from the palace, and it was not proper for us to see the dishonor of the Melech, therefore we have sent and informed the Melech