Their children that were left after them in the land, whom the children of Israel also were not able completely to destroy, upon those did Solomon levy a tribute of bondservice until this day.
Be it known now to the king, that, if this city be built, and the walls set up again, then will they not pay toll, tribute, and custom, and so you shall hurt the revenue of the kings.
There have been mighty kings also over Jerusalem, which have ruled over all countries beyond the river; and toll, tribute, and custom, was paid to them.
Also we inform you, that concerning any of the priests and Levites, singers, gatekeepers, temple servants, or ministers of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.
And it yields much increase to the kings whom you have set over us because of our sins: also they have dominion over our bodies, and over our cattle, at their pleasure, and we are in great distress.