1
In the hundred and sixtieth year Alexander, the son of Antiochus surnamed Epiphanes, went up and took Ptolemais: for the people had received him, by means whereof he reigned there,
2
Now when king Demetrius heard thereof, he gathered together an exceeding great host, and went forth against him to fight.
3
Moreover Demetrius sent letters unto Jonathan with loving words, so as he magnified him.
4
For said he, Let us first make peace with him, before he join with Alexander against us:
5
Else he will remember all the evils that we have done against him, and against his brethren and his people.
6
Wherefore he gave him authority to gather together an host, and to provide weapons, that he might aid him in battle: he commanded also that the hostages that were in the tower should be delivered him.
7
Then came Jonathan to Jerusalem, and read the letters in the audience of all the people, and of them that were in the tower:
8
Who were sore afraid, when they heard that the king had given him authority to gather together an host.
9
Whereupon they of the tower delivered their hostages unto Jonathan, and he delivered them unto their parents.