15. that search may be made in the book of the records of your fathers. You will see in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful to kings and provinces, and that they have started rebellions within it in the past. That is why this city was destroyed.
16. We inform the king that, if this city is built and the walls finished, then you will have no possession beyond the River.
17. Then the king sent an answer to Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions who live in Samaria, and in the rest of the country beyond the River: Peace.
18. The letter which you sent to us has been plainly read before me.
19. I decreed, and search has been made, and it was found that this city has made insurrection against kings in the past, and that rebellion and revolts have been made in it.
20. There have also been mighty kings over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all the country beyond the River; and tribute, custom, and toll, was paid to them.
21. Make a decree now to cause these men to cease, and that this city not be built, until a decree is made by me.
22. Be careful that you not be slack doing so. Why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?