the Persians,and undoubtedly contributed to Sapor's
success, he was himself so far from satisfied with the conduct of
Arsaces that he resolved at once to invade his country and endeavor to
strip him of his crown. As Rome had by the recent treaty relinquished
her protectorate over Armenia, and bound herself not to interfere in
any quarrel between the Armenians and the Persians, an opportunity was
afforded for bringing Armenia into subjection which an ambitious monarch
like Sapor was not likely to let slip. He had only to consider whether
he would employ art or violence, or whether he would rather prefer a
judicious admixture of the two. Adopting the last-named course as the
most prudent, he proceeded to intrigue with a portion of the Armenian
satraps, while he made armed incursions on the territories of others,
and so harassed the country that after a while the satraps generally
went over to his side, and represented to Arsaces that no course was
open to him but to make his submission. Having brought matters to this
point, Sapor had only further to persuade Arsaces to surrender himself,
in order to obtain the province which he coveted, almost without
striking a blow. He therefore addressed Arsaces a letter which,
according to the only writer who professes to give its terms, was
expressed as follows:

"Sapor, the offspring of Ormazd, comrade of the sun, king of kings,
sends greeting to his dear brother, Arsaces, king of Armenia, whom he
holds in affectionate remembrance. It has come to our knowledge that
thou hast approved thyself our faithful friend, since not only didst
thou decline to invade Persia with Caesar, but when he took a contingent
from thee thou didst send messengers and withdraw it. Moreover, we have
not forgotten how thou actedst at the first, when thou didst prevent
him from passing through thy territories, as he wished. Our soldiers,
indeed, who quitted their post, sought to cast on thee the blame due to
their own cowardice. But we have not listened to them: their leader we
punished with death, and to thy realm, I swear by Mithra, we have done
no hurt. Arrange matters then so that thou mayest come to us with all
speed, and consult with us concerning our common advantage. Then thou
canst return home."

Arsaces, on receiving this missive, whatever suspicions he may have
felt, saw no course open to him but to accept the invitation. He
accordingly quitted Armenia and made his way to the court of Sapor,
whe