10:18 King Alexander to his brother Jonathan sendeth greeting:
10:19 We have heard of thee, that thou art a man of great power, and meet to be our friend.
10:20 Wherefore now this day we ordain thee to be the high priest of thy nation, and to be called the king’s friend; (and therewithal he sent him a purple robe and a crown of gold:) and require thee to take our part, and keep friendship with us.
10:21 So in the seventh month of the hundred and sixtieth year, at the feast of the tabernacles, Jonathan put on the holy robe, and gathered together forces, and provided much armour.
10:22 Whereof when Demetrius heard, he was very sorry, and said,
10:23 What have we done, that Alexander hath prevented us in making amity with the Jews to strengthen himself?
10:24 I also will write unto them words of encouragement, and promise them dignities and gifts, that I may have their aid.
10:25 He sent unto them therefore to this effect: King Demetrius unto the people of the Jews sendeth greeting:
10:26 Whereas ye have kept covenants with us, and continued in our friendship, not joining yourselves with our enemies, we have heard hereof, and are glad.
10:27 Wherefore now continue ye still to be faithful unto us, and we will well recompense you for the things ye do in our behalf,