Ezra 4:13-16

13Now let it be known to the king, that if that city is rebuilt and the walls are finished, 1they will not pay tribute, custom or toll, and it will damage the revenue of the kings. 14Now because we 2are in the service of the palace, and it is not fitting for us to see the king’s dishonor, therefore we have sent and informed the king, 15so that a search may be made in the record books of your fathers. And you will discover in the record books and learn that that city is a rebellious city and damaging to kings and provinces, and that they have incited revolt within it in past days; therefore that city was laid waste. 16We inform the king that if that city is rebuilt and the walls finished, as a result you will have no possession in the province beyond the River.”