This letter, along with letters 32-34, is part of the large dossier of inscriptions found at Magnesia, relating to the cult of Artemis Leukophryene; see Syll³_557. For some comments on the letters, see P. Ceccarelli, "Letters and Decrees, or Idioms of Power in the Hellenistic Period", pp.140-148 ( PDF ) .
There is another translation of the letters in M.M. Austin, "The Hellenistic World from Alexander to the Roman Conquest", no.189 ( Google Books ).
King Antiochos to the council and the people of Magnesia, greeting. Demophon and Philiskos and Pheres, the envoys sent by you to us to proclaim the games and the other honours which your people have voted to perform for the mistress of the city Artemis Leukophryene, appeared before us in Antioch in Persis, and delivered your decree and them selves spoke with enthusiasm in accordance with its contents, inviting us to recognise as "crowned" and of Pythian rank the games which you hold in honour of the goddess every four years . Since we have had from the beginning the kindliest feeling for your people because of the good - will which you have shown on all occasions to us and to our state , and since we are anxious to make clear our policy , we give our approval of the honours voted the goddess and we propose to aid in furthering them in whatever matters you call to our attention or we ourselves think of. We have written also to our officers so that the cities may , following our example , give their approval likewise. Farewell.
Attalus' home page | 05.03.21 | Any comments?