Armenia had now been a province of Persia for the space of twenty-six (or perhaps forty-six) years; but it had in no degree been conciliated or united with the rest of the empire.

The people had been distrusted and oppressed; the nobles had been deprived of employment; a heavy tribute had been laid on the land; and a religious revolution had been violently effected.

It is not surprising that when Tiridates, supported by a Roman _corps d'armee_, appeared upon the frontiers, the whole population received him with transports of loyalty and joy.

All the nobles flocked to his standard, and at once acknowledged him for their king.

The people everywhere welcomed him with acclamations.