Ep. LXII.
(The Armenian referred to is probably Eustathius Bishop
of Sebaste, the capital of Armenia Minor. He had been a disciple
of Arius, but more than once professed the Nicene Faith, changing his
opinions with his company. His personal character however stood
very high, and for a long time S. Basil regarded him with affectionate
esteem. Indeed S. Basil’s Rule for Monks is based on one
drawn up by him. But after Basil’s elevation to the
Episcopate Eustathius began to oppose him and to calumniate him on all
sides, and even entered openly into communion with the Arians. It
would seem that this man tried to get Amphilochius round to his side,
and through him Gregory.)
The Injunction of your inimitable Honour is not
barbaric, but Greek, or rather christian; but as for the Armenian on
whom you pride yourself so, he is a downright barbarian, and far from
our honour.