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The B. I. mentions only one pretender, ‘Gaumata,’ and of course says nothing of his resemblance to Smerdis; on this point, which is probable in itself, H. is supported by Ctesias and Justin (i. 9); it is not inconsistent with the caution spoken of in 63. 2, 68. 2. The B. I. (i. 11) confirms H. as to the usurpation being unopposed. Justin has the name ‘Cometes’ right, but gives it to the chief plotter, not the actual pretender, whom he calls Oropastes. H.'s ‘Smerdis’ is required to explain the prophetic dream, cf. 30. 2, 64. 1. ‘Patizeithes’ is probably a title = ‘Padishah’.

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