18. and also to free the Jewish people from oppression. They observed that the Greek kingdom was completely enslaving Israel.
19. They took the long journey to Rome. They entered the senate chamber, and they spoke:
20. "Judas, called Maccabeus, along with his brothers and the Jewish people, has sent us to you to establish alliance and peace with you. We seek to be enrolled as your allies and friends."
21. This proposal pleased the Romans.
22. This is a copy of the letter that they wrote in reply on bronze tablets, which they sent to Jerusalem to remain with them there as a memorial of peace and alliance:
23. May all go well with the Romans and with the nation of the Jews at sea and on land forever. May sword and enemy stay away from them.
24. If war comes first to Rome or to any of their allies throughout their territory,