15:004:014 Now because we have maintenance from the king's palace, and it was not meet for us to see the king's dishonour, therefore have we sent and certified the king;
15:004:015 That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city is a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed.
15:004:016 We certify the king that, if this city be builded again, and the walls thereof set up, by this means thou shalt have no portion on this side the river.
15:004:017 Then sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and unto the rest beyond the river, Peace, and at such a time.
15:004:018 The letter which ye sent unto us hath been plainly read before me.
15:004:019 And I commanded, and search hath been made, and it is found
that this city of old time hath made insurrection against
kings, and that rebellion and sedition have been made therein.
15:004:020 There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have
ruled over all countries beyond the river; and toll, tribute,
and custom, was paid unto them.
15:004:021 Give ye now commandment to cause these men to cease, and that
this city be not builded, until another commandment shall be
given from me.
15:004:022 Take heed now that ye fail not to do this: why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?
15:004:023 Now when the copy of king Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum, and Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went up in haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and made them to cease by force and power.