Ezra 4:13-15

Holman Christian Standard Bible

¹³ Let it now be known to the king that if that city is rebuilt and its walls are finished,^(A) they will not pay tribute, duty, or land tax,^(B) and the royal revenue^[a] will suffer. ¹⁴ Since we have taken an oath of loyalty to the king,^[b] and it is not right for us to witness his dishonor, we have sent to inform the king ¹⁵ that a search should be made in your fathers’ record books.^(C) In these record books you will discover and verify that the city is a rebellious city, harmful to kings and provinces. There have been revolts in it since ancient times. That is why this city was destroyed.