On the other hand, the loss of it to Parthia laid the eastern provinces open to her, and was at once almost equivalent to the loss of all Rhagiana, which had no other natural protection.

Now we find that Phraates surmounted the "Gates," and effected a lodgment in the plain country beyond them.

He removed a portion of the conquered Mardians from their mountain homes to the city of Charax, which was on the western side of the Gates, probably on the site now occupied by the ruins known as Uewanikif.

Their location in this strong post was a menace to the neighboring town of Rhages, which can scarcely have maintained itself long against an enemy encamped at its doors.

We are not informed, however, of any results which followed on the occupation of Charax during the lifetime of Phraates.