¹² Let it be known to the king that the Jews who came from you have returned to us at Jerusalem. They are rebuilding that rebellious and evil city, finishing its walls, and repairing its foundations.

³ They said to me, “The remnant in the province,^(A) who survived the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace. Jerusalem’s wall has been broken down, and its gates have been burned.”^(B)

³ and replied to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should I^[a] not be sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” ^(A)