2
He also sent letters to the same effect to the Spartans and to other places.
3
So they went to Rome and entered the senate chamber and said, "Jonathan the high priest and the Jewish nation have sent us to renew the former friendship and alliance with them."
4
And the Romans gave them letters to the people in every place, asking them to provide for the envoys safe conduct to the land of Judah.
5
This is a copy of the letter which Jonathan wrote to the Spartans:
6
"Jonathan the high priest, the senate of the nation, the priests, and the rest of the Jewish people to their brethren the Spartans, greeting.
7
Already in time past a letter was sent to Onias the high priest from Arius, who was king among you, stating that you are our brethren, as the appended copy shows.
8
Onias welcomed the envoy with honor, and received the letter, which contained a clear declaration of alliance and friendship.
9
Therefore, though we have no need of these things, since we have as encouragement the holy books which are in our hands,
10
we have undertaken to send to renew our brotherhood and friendship with you, so that we may not become estranged from you, for considerable time has passed since you sent your letter to us.
11
We therefore remember you constantly on every occasion, both in our feasts and on other appropriate days, at the sacrifices which we offer and in our prayers, as it is right and proper to remember brethren.
12
And we rejoice in your glory.