Page:The History of Armenia - Avdall - Volume 1.djvu/71

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CHAPTER IV.

The period between the Reigns of Paret and Scavordee.

ANUSHAVAN died without issue, and the crown of Armenia fell to the nearest collateral branch of his family, the supreme power being still possessed by the descendants of Haicus.

The successor to Anushavan, on the throne, was Paret, a prince of great valour and talent. He was several times engaged in war with the neighbouring powers, but always proved successful. He died after a reign of 50 years, during which the Jewish Patriarch Joseph died in Egypt at the age of 120 years.

Arbak succeeded Paret on the throne of Armenia, and reigned 44 years, when he died, Zavan, a prince of great courage and virtue, then seized upon the supreme authority, which he exercised with mildness and justice for a period of 37 years, when he was suddenly taken off by death. In his days the Athenian and Lacedaemonian states were founded.

Pharnak the first succeeded Zavan, and reigned