Page:The History of Armenia - Avdall - Volume 1.djvu/319

 276 HlftTORT OF ARM ENIifb

Abraham, with the deacon Cajaj. He imaging by this measure to have inflicted a severe vif ound t>a Christianity, by suspending the exertions of its most zealous defenders. On the arrival of these devoted victims in Persia, they were tortured on the rack by order of Mihrnerseh, and confined in the common criminal gaol. Vasak, shortly after their departure from Armenia, went to Persia, in hopes of there receiving from the king •a splendid reward for his diabolical exertions* Shortly after this, the Prefect wrote to all the 4>ishops and chiefs dispersed about Armenia, inviting them to the open profession of their Teligion, by making known to them the will of Hazkert. He then urged the more distinguished chiefs to renounce all fear, and go to visit the king, where every tiling might be put into order by treaty. They consented to the proposal of the Prefect, on receiving from Hazkert an oath, guaranteeing their safety. Previous to their setting out in their journey, having no hopes of St. Joseph ever more returning to Armenia, they directed a meeting of bishops to be held in tbs "City of Duin, for the election of a ponti£P. A.D.452. The assembly having taken place, the choice of the clergy and the nation fell upon Melitey from Manazkert, who forthwith assumed the pontifical dignity. He established his chair in Duin, in the year of our Lord 452. After govern-

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