History of Armenia, by Father Michael Chamich; from B. C. 2247 to ...

292 HISTORY OF ARMENIA.
troops at Curwak, not knowing that Vasak wa»
there. When the Persians perceived the Arme*
niansso near them, they became greatly alarmed.
Vasak was also apprehensive that he should not
be able to make a clear escape with his men.
He
summoned them together, and directed them to
make away in small parties of two or three, and
hasten with all practicable expedition to join
their army. To give them more time to effect
their escape, he sent messengers to Atirwushnasp,
saying, *' I have a communication to make
to you from the
Armenians, which, if you will
receive, it is probable that peace may be restored."
Atirwushnasp replied, "T canreceive no
communication from rebels with arms in their
hands." Vasak sent again to him, begging to
be permitted to deliver his mission. On the
dispatch of the last messenger, perceiving all
his men were clear, he mounted his horse, and
addressing some Persians who had come to the
village on business from the Prefect, said, ** The
messages I have sent to your master were only
meant to ridicule him. I had no communication
to deliver ; my only object was to see what kind
of people you are; and I
have found you a foolish
and worthless set, and I predict that much evil
will befall you." Having said this, he left
them, and fearlessly pursued his way back
to Varazkert, where, having arrived, he related