12
And forthwith calling Nicanor, who had been master of the elephants, and making him governor over Judea, he sent him forth,
13
Commanding him to slay Judas, and to scatter them that were with him, and to make Alcimus high priest of the great temple.
14
Then the heathen, that had fled out of Judea from Judas, came to Nicanor by flocks, thinking the harm and calamities of the Jews to be their welfare.
15
Now when the Jews heard of Nicanor's coming, and that the heathen were up against them, they cast earth upon their heads, and made supplication to him that had established his people for ever, and who always helpeth his portion with manifestation of his presence.
16
So at the commandment of the captain they removed straightways from thence, and came near unto them at the town of Dessau.
17
Now Simon, Judas' brother, had joined battle with Nicanor, but was somewhat discomfited through the sudden silence of his enemies.
18
Nevertheless Nicanor, hearing of the manliness of them that were with Judas, and the courageousness that they had to fight for their country, durst not try the matter by the sword.
19
Wherefore he sent Posidonius, and Theodotus, and Mattathias, to make peace.
20
So when they had taken long advisement thereupon, and the captain had made the multitude acquainted therewith, and it appeared that they were all of one mind, they consented to the covenants,
21
And appointed a day to meet in together by themselves: and when the day came, and stools were set for either of them,
22
Judas placed armed men ready in convenient places, lest some treachery should be suddenly practised by the enemies: so they made a peaceable conference.