16. We inform the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, the result will be that you will have no dominion beyond the River.
17. The king sent an answer:To Rehum the commander, to Shimshai the scribe, to the rest of their companions who dwell in Samaria, and to the remainder beyond the River:Peace, and so forth.
18. The letter which you sent to us has been clearly read before me.
19. And I gave the command, and a search has been made, and it was found that this city in former times has revolted against kings, and rebellion and sedition have been fostered in it.
20. There have also been mighty kings over Jerusalem, who have ruled over all the region beyond the River; and tax, tribute, and custom were paid to them.