24 Now I must write a friendly letter to the Jews and promise them better gifts and more honors. Then they'll come over to my side.”
25 And so, Demetrius wrote:King Demetrius sends greetings to the Jewish nation.
26 I was very pleased to learn that you have kept your promises. This means you are still my friends and allies.
27 If you remain loyal to me, I will reward you for everything you do.
28 I will give you valuable gifts and not make you pay heavy taxes.
29 My Jewish friends, you are excused from paying taxes on salt, as well as the other usual taxes, including the special royal tax.
30 And from now on, you no longer have to give me a share of your grain and fruit.I will never again take anything you grow in Judea or in the three districts added to Judea from Samaria and Galilee.