History of the Armenians

...to those who speak of such things. And when they finally reach the sandy shores that mark the boundaries against the high waves, having arrived at the dry land, they shall laugh original: "ծիծաղեսցին" (tsitsaghestsin). This "laughter" represents the profound relief and joy of survivors reaching safety after a near-death experience at sea. with relief.

But as for those caught in the midst of the deep abysses, filled with cavernous roaring, they endure a terrifying fate and portend their own end. Even though they see themselves tossed about upon the mass of mighty, shaking, and dreadful waters, they keep the possibility of success before their minds. They strive to confront the turmoil of the terrible sea, so that perhaps, with help once more, they may joyfully show their gains original: "զգիւտս" (zguyts). While it literally means "finds" or "discoveries," in this mercantile context, it refers to the goods or wealth acquired during the voyage. to their respective families,

and boast of the glory of their labors to their neighbors. For they feel a great necessity to cast off the name of poverty from themselves, and to deliver their suffering families from the oppressive taxation Oppressive taxation: The Armenian "դրաւահարկ" (drawahark) refers specifically to tribute or taxes imposed by authorities, which in the historian's time was a crushing burden on the populace. of the lords' tyranny. They hope that from the profits they bring back, they might satisfy the debts incurred by the peril, and free themselves from the yoke of ser- The text cuts off mid-word ("ծառայութեան" or "heavy servitude") and continues on the following page.