Page:The History of Armenia - Avdall - Volume 1.djvu/150

 the Roman general Marinus^ then in Palestine, in order that this officer might communicate his declarations of innocence to the emperor, and bear witness in his behalfc During the stay of the messengers of Abgar in Palestine, many wonders were related to them of the extraor- dinary power of Christ in curing the sick and maimed ; and to gratify their curiosity, on their mission being concluded, they went to Jerusalem to see him. On their witnessing the miracles performed by our Lord, they were seized with wonder, and when they returned to Armenia, they related the particulars to their master. Abgar having listened to their accounts, became satisfied that this was the Son of God, and imme- diately sent back his messengers to Jerusalem with a letter to Christ. After acknowledging his belief that he was the true and only Son of God, and beseeching him to cure him of his disease, he concluded by inviting him to come into Ar- menia and reside with him, saying, ** I have heard that the Jews murmur against you, and seek to destroy you. I have a small, but beauti-

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ful city, which I offer you to partake with me. It is sufficient for us both." He gave instructions to his messengers to offer sacrifices for him at the temple at Jerusalem, and also sent a painter with them, in order that if theBlessed Saviour would not come, he might possess a portrait of him« The messengers on their arrival at Jerusalem^^ a.d. so.

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