13. And because he was not irrational, thinking to himself about the loss that had happened against him, and understanding the Hebrews to be invincible because they depend upon the help of Almighty God, he sent to them,
14. and he promised that he would agree to all things that are just, and that he would persuade the king to be their friend.
15. Then Maccabeus assented to the request of Lysias, considering it useful in every way. And whatever Maccabeus wrote to Lysias, concerning the Jews, the king consented to it.
16. For there were letters written to the Jews from Lysias, which, indeed, were composed in this way: "Lysias, to the people of the Jews: greetings.
17. John and Absalom, who had been sent from you to deliver your writings, requested that I would implement these things that were signified by them.
18. Therefore, whatever things could be brought before the king, I have presented them. And he has conceded to those things that are permitted.
19. If, therefore, you will keep yourselves faithful in these matters, then, from now on, I will endeavor to be a cause of your good.
20. But as for other particulars, I have given orders by word, both to these, and to those who have been sent by me, to confer with you.
21. Farewell. In the one hundred forty-eighth year, on the twenty-fourth day of the month of Dioscorus."
22. But the letter of the king contained this: "King Antiochus to Lysias, his brother: greetings.