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.