Page:The History of Armenia - Avdall - Volume 1.djvu/340

 Johan» prince of the Mockazies, being displeased with their conduct, pursued them with a number of men, and overtook them at the village of Arest, where a combat between the two parties ensued. The advocates of Christianity were so fewi that they were surrounded by their ene- mies ; yet they fought, confiding in God, most courageously. Johan Anzevazie having at- tacked the chief of the Mockazies, killed him with a dart of his spear. This chief had often before ridiculed Johan, by saying of him, ** He is good for nothing. He ought to hatve a yoke put on his neck, and be worked like an ox/' will bring the yoko; do you put it on his neck if you can." The scoffer, however, was justly rewarded for his contemptuousness, being killed by the object of whom he thought so meanly. Sevuk, the other apostate chief, and his men, when they heard of the death of Johan Mocka- zie, took to flight. They were pursued, and many of them slain. The victors then proceeded to Duin, where they were joyfully met by theVaha* nians. King Phiroz, when he heard of the events we have just detailed, became extremely irri- tated against Yahan, and taking his brother Yard, who it will be recollected was an hostage ia Persia, put him in bonds. He then collected a considerable force, and dividing it into four

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