19
So Demetrius became king in the one hundred sixty-seventh year.
20
In those days Jonathan assembled the Judeans to attack the citadel in Jerusalem, and he built many engines of war to use against it.
21
But certain renegades who hated their nation went to the king and reported to him that Jonathan was besieging the citadel.
22
When he heard this he was angry, and as soon as he heard it he set out and came to Ptolemais; and he wrote Jonathan not to continue the siege, but to meet him for a conference at Ptolemais as quickly as possible.
23
When Jonathan heard this, he gave orders to continue the siege. He chose some of the elders of Israel and some of the priests, and put himself in danger,
24
for he went to the king at Ptolemais, taking silver and gold and clothing and numerous other gifts. And he won his favor.
25
Although certain renegades of his nation kept making complaints against him,
26
the king treated him as his predecessors had treated him; he exalted him in the presence of all his Friends.
27
He confirmed him in the high priesthood and in as many other honors as he had formerly had, and caused him to be reckoned among his chief Friends.
28
Then Jonathan asked the king to free Judea and the three districts of Samaria from tribute, and promised him three hundred talents.
29
The king consented, and wrote a letter to Jonathan about all these things; its contents were as follows: