The officers reported this to the magistrates, who were alarmed when they heard that they were Roman citizens.
In context
36The jailer reported this to Paul: “The magistrates have sent word that you are to be released. So come out now and go in peace.” 37But Paul said to them, “They beat us in public, without a trial, though we are Roman citizens, and threw us into prison — and now they want to get rid of us quietly? Certainly not. Let them come themselves and escort us out.” 38The officers reported this to the magistrates, who were alarmed when they heard that they were Roman citizens. 39So they came and apologized to them, escorted them out and asked them to leave the city. 40On leaving the prison the two went to Lydia’s house, where they saw the brothers and sisters and encouraged them; then they set off.