11
And he commanded the workmen to build the walls and the mount Sion and about with square stones for fortification; and they did so.
12
Then the strangers, that were in the fortresses which Bacchides had built, fled away;
13
Insomuch as every man left his place, and went into his own country.
14
Only at Bethsura certain of those that had forsaken the law and the commandments remained still: for it was their place of refuge.
15
Now when king Alexander had heard what promises Demetrius had sent unto Jonathan: when also it was told him of the battles and noble acts which he and his brethren had done, and of the pains that they had endured,
16
He said, Shall we find such another man? now therefore we will make him our friend and confederate.
17
Upon this he wrote a letter, and sent it unto him, according to these words, saying,
18
King Alexander to his brother Jonathan sendeth greeting:
19
We have heard of thee, that thou art a man of great power, and meet to be our friend.
20
Wherefore now this day we ordain thee to be the high priest of thy nation, and to be called the king's friend; (and therewithal he sent him a purple robe and a crown of gold:) and require thee to take our part, and keep friendship with us.
21
So in the seventh month of the hundred and sixtieth year, at the feast of the tabernacles, Jonathan put on the holy robe, and gathered together forces, and provided much armour.