26
But Alcimus, perceiving the love that was between them and considering the covenants that were made, came to Demetrius and told him that Nicanor was not well-disposed toward the state; for he had ordained Judas, a traitor to his realm, to be the king's successor.
27
Then the king, being in a rage and provoked by the accusations of the most wicked man, wrote to Nicanor, signifying that he was much displeased with the covenants, and commanding him that he should send Maccabeus as a prisoner with all haste unto Antioch.
28
When this came to Nicanor's hearing, he was much confounded in himself, and took it grievously that he should make void the articles which were agreed upon, the man being without fault.
29
But because there was no opposing the king, he watched his time to accomplish this thing by a stratagem.
30
Notwithstanding, when Maccabeus saw that Nicanor began to be churlish unto him, and that he treated him more roughly than he was wont, perceiving that such sour behavior came not from good, he gathered together not a few of his men and withdrew himself from Nicanor.
31
But the other, knowing that he was notably outmaneuvered by Judas' policy, came into the great and holy temple, and commanded the priests who were offering their usual sacrifices to deliver the man to him.
32
And when they swore that they could not tell where the man was whom he sought,
33
he stretched out his right hand toward the temple, and made an oath in this manner: If ye will not deliver me Judas as a prisoner, I will lay this temple of God even with the ground; and I will break down the altar and erect a notable temple unto Bacchus.
34
After these words he departed. Then the priests lifted up their hands toward heaven, and besought Him that was ever a defender of their nation, saying in this manner:
35
Thou, O Lord of all things, who hast need of nothing, wast pleased that the temple of Thine habitation should be among us.
36
Therefore now, O holy Lord of all holiness, keep this house ever undefiled, which lately was cleansed; and stop every unrighteous mouth.