Ezra 4:17-23 - Artaxerxes' Reply
17 Then sent the king an answer, "Unto Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the others of their counsel that dwelt in Samaria, and unto others beyond the water: Peace and salutation. 18 The letter which ye sent unto us, hath been openly read before me, 19 and I have commanded to make search: and it is found, that this city, of old, hath made insurrection against kings; and how the uproar and rebellion hath been committed therein. 20 There have been mighty kings also at Jerusalem which have reigned over all that is beyond the water, and toll, tribute and a yearly custom was given unto them. 21 Do ye now after this commandment, forbid the same men, that the city be not builded, till I have given commandment? 22 Take heed now that ye be not negligent herein, lest the king have harm therethrough."
23 Now when king Artaxerxes' letter was read before Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe and their counsel, they went up in all the haste to Jerusalem unto the Jews, and forbade them with violence and power.