Chapter II: HONORATI FABRI Soc. Jesu Theologi, Tractatus duo; quorum Prior est de (3)

I do not well know, what to say to yours concerning M. _Hevelius_. Mean while, the interest of truth, and the obliging manner, he has treated me with, engage me to answer him, in the matter of the _Comets_: I am perswaded, I shall convince him; but since he hath taken the _Illustrious Royal Society_ for Judge, I accept that with all my heart.

* * * * *

_A Relation of the loss of the Way to prepare the _Bononian Stone_ for shining._

[Sidenote: * It is hoped notwithstanding (which also a late Letter from abroad does hint) that some or other of the _Italian_ Vertuosi at _Florence_ have secured this Secret.]

Though several Persons have pretended to know the Art of preparing and calcining the _Bononian_ Stone, for keeping a while the Light once imbibed; yet there hath been indeed but one, who had the true secret of performing it. This was an _Ecclesiastick_, who is now dead, without having left that skill of his to any one, as Letters from _Italy_ and _France_, some while since, did inform. There is no substance, in Nature, known to us, that hath the effect of this Stone; so that (to the shame of the present Age) this _Phænomenon_ is not like to be found any where, but in Books, except some happy _Genius_ light upon same or the like skill. *

* * * * *

_A Description of a _Swedish_ Stone, which affords _Sulphur_, _Vitriol_, _Allum_ and _Minium_._

This was communicated to the _R. Society_ by Sir _Gilbert Talbot_ Knight, a Worthy Member of that Body, as he had received it in _Denmark_, being his Majesties Extraordinary Envoy there; as follows,

There is a Stone in _Sweden_ of a Yellow Colour, intermixed with streaks of white (as if composed of Gold and Silver) and heavy withal. It is found in firm Rocks, and runs in Veins, {376} upon which they lay Wood, and set it on fire. When the Stone is thus heated, they cast Water upon it, to make it rend, and then dig it up with Mattocks. This done, they break it into smaller pieces; and put it into Iron-pots, of the shape represented by _Figure_ C; the mouth of the one going into the other. These they place, the _one_ in the Oven upon an Iron fork sloping, so that, the Stone being melted, it may run into the _other_, which stands at the mouth of the Oven, supported upon an Iron. The first running of the Stone is _Sulphur_.

The remainder of the burned Stone is carry'd out, and laid upon a high Hill, where it lies exposed to the Sun and Air for the space of two years, and then taketh fire of it self, casting forth a thin blew flame, scarce discernable in the day time. This being consumed, leaveth a blew dust behind it; which the Workmen observe, and mark with woodden pins. This they dig up, and carry into the Work-house, and put it into great Tubs of Water, where it infuseth 24. hours or more. The Water they afterward boyl in Kettles, as we do Saltpeter, and put it into cooling Tubs, wherein they place crosse Sticks, and on them the _Vitriol_ fastens, as Sugar-candy doth.

The Water, that remains after the extraction of the _Vitriol_, they mix with an eight part of Urin and the Lees of Wood-ashes, which is again boyled very strong, and being set to cool in Tubbs, crosse Sticks are likewise placed, and thereon the _Allum_ fastens.

In the Water, which remains after the _Allum_, is found a Sediment, which being separated from the Water, is put into an Oven, and Wood laid upon it and fired, till it become red, which makes the _Minium_, wherewith they paint their Houses, and make plaister.

_So far this Description_; Which gave occasion to a curious person to call to mind, That there was a kind of Stone in the _North_ of _England_, yielding the same substances, except _Minium_. {377}

* * * * *

_A Relation of the Raining of _Ashes_, in the _Archipelago_, upon the Eruption of Mount _Vesuvius_, some years ago._

This came but lately to hand from that knowing person, Mr. _Henry Robinson_, and was thought fit to be now inserted here, that it might not be lost, though it hath hapned above 30 years ago. It was contained in a Letter, (subscribed by Capt. _Will. Badily_) in these words:

[Sidenote: * Some of these Ashes were produced by Mr. _John Evelyn_, before the _Royal Society_.]

The 6^{th.} of _December_ 1631, being in the Gulf of _Volo_, riding at Anchor, about ten of the Clock that Night, it began to rain Sand or Ashes, and continued till two of the Clock the next Morning. It was about two inches thick on the Deck, so that we cast it over board with Shovels, as we did Snow the day before: The quantity of a Bushel we brought home, and presented to several Friends *, especially to the Masters of _Trinity House_. There was in our Company, Capt. _John Wilds_ Commander of the _Dragon_, and Capt. _Anthony Watts_, Commander of the _Elisabeth_ and _Dorcas_. There was no Wind stirring, when these Ashes fell, it did not fall onely in the places, where we were, but likewise in other parts, as Ships were coming from St. _John D'Acre_ to our Port; they being at that time a hundred Leagues from us. We compared the Ashes together, and found them both one. If you desire to see the Ashes, let me know.

* * * * *

_An Extract Of A Letter not long since written from _Rome_, rectifying the Relation of _Salamanders_ living in Fire._

This came from that Expert Anatomist M. _Steno_, to Dr. _Croone Videl_. That a Knight called _Corvini_, had assured him, that, having cast a _Salamander_, brought him out of the _Indies_, into the Fire, the Animal thereupon swell'd presently, and then vomited store of thick slimy matter, which did put out the neighbouring Coals, to which the _Salamander_ retired immediately, putting them out again in the same manner, as soon as they {378} rekindled, and by this means saving himself from the force of the Fire, for the space of two hours, the Gentleman above-mentioned being then unwilling to hazard the Creature any further: That afterwards it lived nine Months: That he had kept it eleven Months without any other food, but what it took by licking the Earth, on which it moved, and on which it had been brought out of the _Indies_; which at first was covered with a thick moisture, but being dried afterwards, the Urin of the Animal served to moisten the same. After the eleven Months, the Owner having a mind to try, how the Animal would do upon _Italian_ Earth, it died three dayes after it had changed the Earth.

* * * * *

_An Account of several Engagements for Observing of Tydes._

Since nothing is more important for discovering the Cause of that Grand _Phænomenon_ of Nature, the _Flux_ and _Reflux of the Sea_, than a true and full _History of the Tydes_; the _Virtuosi_ of _England_ have of late (especially since the Publication of Dr. _Wallis_ his _Theory_ touching that _Apparence_) taken care, to direct and recommend in several parts of the World, and particularly in the most proper places of these _Ilands_, such Observations, as may contribute to the elucidating of that Subject.

And as formerly they have sent their _Inquiries_ of this Nature to the Isle of St. _Helena_, situated in the open Ocean beyond the _Æquinoctial_, and already received some account thereupon; so they have since dispatcht the like for the _Bermudas_, an _Isle_ that hath no less conveniency of situation for that purpose. And they intend (as will more amply appear, God permitting, in a short time) to lodge with such Masters of Ships and Pilots, as shall sayl into remote parts, very particular directions of that kind, to be printed at the _Royal Societies_ charges, and to be committed to the care of the Masters of _Trinity House_ for disposing of them to that end.

And, as for the Observations, to be made in these Kingdoms; 'tis hoped, that the Masters in the Art of Navigation at _Bristol_ (Mr. _Standridge_ and Mr. _Iff_) will undertake that business with affection and care: the former of these two having already (as we are informed from a good hand) made a Collection of the Tydes; {379} for some years past, and found them differing from former Observations and Tables; the other promising future diligence in this matter; noting in the mean time, that some Tydes of last Autumn were so far differing from former Observations, that neither he, nor any others there, could make any thing of it.

We must not omit here to mention the readiness, expressed by these worthy Gentlemen, Mr. _Rob. Boyle_, Sir _Rob. Moray_, and Mr. _Henry Powle_, for concurring in this Work; the first, having undertaken to recommend Observations of this nature, to be made, upon the _Western_ Coast of _Ireland_ *; the second, upon the West of _Scotland_; and the third, in the Isle of _Lundy_; to whom we must adde the inquisitive Mr. _Sam. Colepresse_, for _Plymouth_, and the _Lands-end_. Besides, we hope to engage the curious of _France_ in the same undertaking, especially for procuring, besides what is known already concerning that place, a very particular and exact account of the Tydes upon the Coast of _Britany_, where (especially about St. _Malo_) they are found to rise to admiration, even to 60, 70, and sometime 80, feet, at the New and Full Moon.

* The Observations particularly recommended for that Coast, are these;

1. At what hour it is High-water on the day of the New and Full Moon,
upon every Cape and Bay of the Western Coast of _Ireland_.

2. How long after the New and Full Moon the highest Spring-tides fall
out.

3. What are the perpendicular heights of the Flood, both at the
ordinary, and the Spring-tydes.

* * * * *

_Some Suggestions for Remedies against _Cold_._

As there have been Remedies found out against excessive _Heat_, and Means of cooling Meat and Drink; so it was lately, on the occasion of the sharp Season, suggested, That Remedies might be thought on against _Cold_; and that particularly it might be inquired into,

1. What things in Nature, or by Art, or Mechanical contrivance will retain a warming Heat longest, or a melting or scorching Heat?

2. What will continue or maintain Fire longest?

Some that observe common practises and vulgar Trades, take notice, That _Joyners_ use _Leaden-Pots_ for their Glue, alledging for a Reason, That Lead, being a close Mettal, retains the heat {380} longer than other Mettals. _Cary_'s Warming-stone promised a warmth for six or eight hours; if it performed but for two or three hours, it would be of great use. 'Tis found by sad experience, how hurtful Bright Fires, and especially of Stone-coal are to the Eyes.

To retain Fire long, certain _Black_ Earths are useful, as we were newly informed by the Inquisitive Dr. _B._ That a Gentleman in _Sommertsetshire_, called Mr. _Speke_, had bountifully obliged _Ilminster_, and his Neighborhood, by a Black Fat-Earth lately found in his Park. But the same Correspondent adds, That he never saw any parallel to a _Sea-weed_, which he and some of his Fellow-Students had in _Cambridge_ in the mouth of a Barrel of good Oysters. It was smaller than Pease-halm, yet cut, it lasted two very great Fires of Sea-coal, burning bright in the midst of the Fire; and by a stroak of the Tongues, it fell into the Hearth, jingling like Mettal.

* * * * *

_A Relation of an uncommon Accident in two Aged Persons._

This was imparted by the above-mentioned Mr. _Colepresse_, who assures in his Letter, containing this Account, That the matter of fact was thorowly examined by himself, and that he was fully, and in all respects, satisfied of the truth thereof.

_The Relation of the one, is in these words._

_Joseh Shute_ Clerk, Parson of _Mary_ (nigh _Plymouth_) in the County of _Devon_, aged 81 years, being a temperate man, and of an healthy constitution, having the in-most Grinder loose, and so remaining, perceived, that his mouth, about three Moneths since, was somewhat streightned; and upon inquiry into the cause of it, found, That he had a new Tooth (the third Grinder) being the innermost of the upper Jaw in the Right Cheek, which still remains firm.

_The Account of the other follows thus._

_Maria Stert_ of _Benecliffe_, in _Plympton St. Mary_ (near _Plymouth_) in _Devon_, aged about 75 years, an healthy person, having had nine children, about the fortieth year of her age lost three of her {381} upper _Incisores_ or _Cutters_, the other drawn out, and so remained Toothless, as to them, for about 25 years, when she perceived, that a new Tooth came forth (without any pain) next the _Canini_ of the left Cheek: And about two years after, another Tooth grew out likewise without pain, close by the former. The first whereof, never came to above half the length of her former _Cutters_, the latter scarce breaking the skin: Both which yet proved serviceable, till about six weeks since, when she eating (no hard, crusty, or solid) Meat, that Tooth which came out first, fell down into her Mouth, without any loosness before hand perceived, or any pain; which had not a phang like other _Cutters_, but much less, and shorter. The other abides firm, and serviceable.

To the truth of these Relations, not onely the said _Joseph Shute_ and _Maria Stert_, have put the one his name, the other her Mark, the third and seventh of _January_, 1666. but also Sir _William Strode_, and Mr. _Colepresse_ have subscribed the same, as believing the Relation to be true.

* * * * *

_An Account of two Books._

__I. ISMAELIS BULLIALDI_ ad Astronomos Monita duo: Primum, De Stella Nova, quæ in Collo Ceti ante annos aliquot visa est. Alterum, De Nebulosa in Andromeda Cinguli parte Borea, ante biennium iterum orta._

The chief end of the _Author_ in publishing this Tract, seems to be, To excite Astronomers to a diligent observation, both of that _New Star_ in the _Neck_ of the _Whale_, to be seen in _February_ and _March_ next; and of that other, in the Northern part of _Andromeda's Girdle_, to be seen at this very present.

As to the _former_ of these Stars, _he affirms_, that, as it hath appeared for many years in the said place, so it will in the beginning of _March_ next appear equal to the Stars of the _third Magnitude_, or perhaps bigger; and that about the end of the same Month, if the Crepuscle do not hinder, the greatest _Phasis_ of it will appear, if so be, that it keep the same Analogy of Motions and Periods, which it observed from _An._ 1638. to _An._ 1664. Where he takes notice of the Causes, why its two greatest Appearances could not be seen, _An._ 1664, 1665, 1666; and how he {382} comes to know, that in the beginning of _March_ next, It will equal, or even exceed the Stars of the _Third Magnitude_; noting, that from the Observations hitherto made of this Star, it is manifest, that the _greatest Phases_ thereof do every year anticipate by 32. or 33. dayes; forasmuch as _An._ 1660. its _greatest Appearance_ was about the end of _October_ and the beginning of _November_; _An._ 1661. about the end of _September_, or the beginning of _October_; _An._ 1662. about the end of _August_, &c. so that this year it must be in _March_, if the former Analogy do hold.

He collects also from the Observations, That one _Period_ from the _greatest Phasis_ to the next, consists of about 333. dayes: but that the interval of the time betwixt the times of its beginning to appear equal to the Stars of the _Sixt Magnitude_, and of its ending to do so, consists of about 120. dayes: And that its _greatest Appearance_ lasts about 15. dayes: All which yet he would have understood with some latitude.

This done, he proceeds to the investigation of the Causes of the Vicissitudes in the Emersion and Dis-appearance of this Star, and having discoursed, That the apparent Increase and Decrement of every Lucid Body proceeds _either_ from its changed distance from the Eye of the Observer; _or_ from its various site and position in respect of him, whereby the angle of Vision is changed; or from the increase or diminution of the bulk of the lucid body it self: and having also demonstrated it impossible, that this Star should move in a _Circle_, or in an _Ellipsis_; and proved it improbable that it should move in a _Strait Line_, he concludes, that there can be no other genuin, or at least, no other more probable cause of its Emersion and Occultation, than this, That the bigger part of that round Body is obscure and inconspicuous to us, and its lesser part lucid, the whole Body turning about its own Center, and one Axe; whereby for one determinate space of time it exhibits its lucid part to the Earth, for another, subducts it: it not being likely, that fires should be kindled in the Body of that Star, and that the matter thereof should at certain times take fire and shine, at other times be extinguisht upon the consumption of that matter.

_So far of that Star._ As to the other in the _Girdle_ of _Andromeda_, seen about the beginning of _An._ 1665; he relates, that, when in the end of 1664. the World beheld the then appearing _Comet_, {383} Astronomers observed also this new _Phænomenon_, which was called by them _Nebulosa in Cingulo Andromedæ_. Concerning which, he notes, that the same had been already seen many years before by _Simon Narius_, vid. _An._ 1612. when with a _Telescope_ he search'd for the _Satellits_ of _Jupiter_, and observed their motions; alledging for proof hereof, the said _Authors_ own words, out of his own Book, _De Mundo Joviali_, publisht _An._ 1614. And farther shews, that it hath formerly appear'd (about 150. years ago) and been taken notice off by an expert, though Anonymous, Astronomer; whose words he cites out of a _Manuscript_, brought out of _Holland_ by the Excellent _Jacobus Augustus Thuanus_, returning from his Embassy to _Paris_; wherein also was marked the _Figure_ of that _Phænomenon_; represented in print by our Author: who from all this collects, that, whereas this Star hath been seen formerly, and that 150. years since, but yet neither observed by _Hipparchus_, nor any other of the Antients, that we can find; nor also in the former Age by _Tycho Brahe_, nor in our Age, by _Bayerus_; and appear'd also in the Month of _November_ last (wherein he wrote this _Tract_) much lessened and obscure, after it had, two years ago, shone very bright; that therefore it must needs appear and dis-appear by turns, like those in the _Necks_ of the _Whale_ and _Swan_.

__II._ ENTRIENS sur les Vies et sur les Ouvrages_ Des plus excellens Peintres, Anciens et Modernes, par Monsieur_ FELIBIEN._

This Author, having first discoursed of that Royal Pallace the _Louvre_, and the Designs of finishing it; passes on to the Art of _Picturing_, and treats of the three principal things, wherein a good Master of the Art must excel, _vid._ the Composition, Designing, and Laying on of Colours, which done, he ravels into the Origine, and deduces the Progress of Painting, and relates what is most remarkable in the Lives of the Antient Painters: And among many particulars, he observes in the Life of _Andreas de Sarte_, how difficult it is, to judge well of a Picture; relating, that a Duke of _Mantua_, having obtained of _Clement_ VII. a Pourtrait of _Leo_ X. which had been done by _Raphael Urbin_, and was at _Florence_, those of that Town being unwilling to lose so excellent a {384} piece, caused a Copy thereof to be made by the said _Andreas de Sarte_, which they sent instead of the Original. This _Copy_ was so perfect, that _Julio Romano_, who had been bred and taught by _Raphael_, and was one of the best Painters of _Italy_, took it for an _Original_; and would never have been undeceived, if one _Vasari_ had not assured him, that it was but a Copy, which himself had seen made, and had not shew'd him certain marks, that were there put to discriminate it from the Original.

In the _Second_ Part, the Author has set down all that is requisite to judge and discourse well of Painting. But, to add Examples to Precepts, he discourses of the _Modern_ Painters, and making a Description of their best Works, he takes occasion to observe, what is there found most excellent, and to shew, how they have put in practice the Rules of Art. He treats also of the declining of Painting, and affirms, that nothing considerable hath been done in it from the time of _Constantine_, till _An._ 1240. when one, _Cimabue_, began to raise this Art again. After this, he give a List of the Painters, that since have been famous for their Works, preferring before all others, _Raphael Urbin_. The last of all is the above-mention'd _Andrè de Sartes_, who died, _An._ 1530. and whom the liberality of _Francis_ I. had drawn into _France_.

* * * * *

The Printing of these Tracts is now return'd to the first Printer thereof, as being somewhat re-setled after the late sad Fire of _London_.

_FINIS._

* * * * *

In the _SAVOY_, Printed by _T. N._ for _John Martyn_, Printer to the _Royal Society_, and are to be sold at his Shop a little without Temple-Bar, 1667.

{385}

* * * * *

_Numb._ 22.

PHILOSOPHICAL _TRANSACTIONS._

* * * * *

_Monday_, _February_ 11. 1666.

* * * * *

The Contents.

_Trials proposed to be made for the Improvement of the Experiment of
_Transfusing Blood out of one live Animal into another_. A Method for
_Observing the Eclipses of the Moon_, free from the Common
Inconveniences. An Account of some Celestial Observations lately made
at _Madrid_. Extract of a Letter, lately written to the Publisher,
containing some observations about _Insects_ and their Inoxiousness,
&c. An Account of some Books, _vid._ _I. TOME TROISIEME DES LETTRES DE
M. DESCARTES. II. ASTRONOMIA REFORMATA P. RICCIOLI. III. ANATOME
MEDULLÆ SPINALIS ET NERVORUM_, inde provenientium, _GERARDI BLASII_,
M.D. An Advertisement about the re-printing of M. _Evelyns_ Sylva and
Pomona. A _Table_ of the _Transactions_, printed these two years._

* * * * *

_Tryals proposed by Mr. _Boyle_ to Dr. _Lower_, to be made by him, for the Improvement of Tranfusing blood out of one live Animal into another; promised _Numb. 20. p. 357_._

The following _Queries_ and _Tryals_ were written long since, and read about a Moneth ago in the _R Society_, and do now come forth against the Authors intention, at the earnest desire of some Learned Persons, and particualrly of the worthy _Doctor_, to whom they were addressed; who thinks, they may excite and assist others in a matter, which, to be well prosecuted, will require many hands. At the reading of them, the _Author_ declared, that of divers of them he thought he could fore-see the Events, but {386} yet judged it fit, not to omit them, because the Importance of the _Theories_, they may give light to, may make the Tryals recompence the pains, whether the success favour the _Affirmative_ or the _Negative_ of the Question, by enabling us to determine the one or the other upon surer grounds, than we could otherwise do. And this Advertisement he desires may be applied to those other Papers of his, that consist of _Quæries_ or proposed _Tryals_.

_The _Quæries_ themselves follow._

1. Whether by this way of Transfusing Blood; the disposition of Individual Animals of the same kind, may not be much altered? (As whether a _fierce_ Dog, by being often quite new stocked with the blood of a _cowardly_ Dog, may not become more tame; _& vice versa, &c_?)

2. Whether immediately upon the unbinding of a Dog, replenisht with adventitious blood, he will know and fawn upon his Master; and do the like customary things as before? And whether he will do such things better or worse at some time after the Operation?

3. Whether those Dogs, that have _Peculiarities_, will have them either abolisht, or at least much impaired by transfusion of blood? (As whether the blood of a _Mastiff_, being frequently transfused into a _Blood-hound_, or a _Spaniel_, will not prejudice them in point of scent?)

4. Whether acquired Habits will be destroy'd or impair'd by this Experiment? (As whether a Dog, taught to fetch and carry, or to dive after Ducks, or to sett, will after frequent and full recruits of the blood of Dogs unfit for those Exercises, be as good at them, as before?)

5. Whether any considerable change is to be observ'd in the Pulse, Urin, and other Excrements of the _Recipient_ Animal, by this Operation, or the quantity of his insensible Transpiration?

6. Whether the _Emittent_ Dog, being full fed at such a distance of time before the Operation, that the mass of blood may be suppos'd to abound with _Chyle_, the _Recipient_ Dog, being before hungry, will lose his appetite, more than if the _Emittent_ Dogs blood had not been so chylous? And how long, upon a {387} Vein opened of a Dog, the admitted blood will be found to retain _Chyle_?

7. Whether a Dog may be kept alive without eating by the frequent Injection of the Chyle of another, taken freshly from the Receptacle, into the Veins of the _Recipient_ Dog?

8. Whether a Dog, that is _sick_ of some disease chiefly imputable to the mass of blood, may be cured by exchanging it for that of a _sound_ Dog? And whether a _sound_ Dog may receive such diseases from the blood of a _sick_ one, as are not otherwise of an infectious nature?

9. What will be the Operation of frequently stocking (which is feasible enough) an _old_ and feeble Dog with the blood of _young_ ones, as to liveliness, dulness, drowsiness, squeamishness, &c., _et vice versa_?

10. Whether a _small_ young Dog, by being often fresh stockt with the blood of a young Dog of a _larger_ kind, will grow bigger, than the ordinary size of his own kind?

11. Whether any Medicated Liquors may be injected together with the blood into the _Recipient_ Dog? And in case they may, whether there will be any considerable difference found between the separations made on this occasion, and those, which would be made, in case such Medicated Liquors had been injected with some other Vehicle, or alone, or taken in at the mouth?

12. Whether a Purging Medicine, being given to the _Emittent_ Dog a while before the Operation, the _Recipient_ Dog will be thereby purged, and how? (which Experiment may be hugely varied.)

13. Whether the Operation may be successfully practis'd, in case the injected blood be that of an Animal of another _Species_, as of a _Calf_ into a _Dog_, &c. and of a _Cold_ Animal, as of a _Fish_, or _Frog_, or _Tortoise_, into the Vessels of a _Hot_ Animal, and _vice versa_?

14. Whether the _Colour_ of the Hair or Feathers of the _Recipient_ Animal, by the frequent repeating of this Operation, will be changed into that of the _Emittent_?

15. Whether by frequently transfusing into the same Dog, the blood of some Animal of another _Species_, something further, and more tending to some degrees of a change of _Species_, may {388} be effected, at least in Animals near of Kin; (As Spaniels and Setting Dogs, Irish Grey-hounds and ordinary Grey-hounds, &c?)

16. Whether the Transfusion may be practic'd upon pregnant Bitches, at least at certain times of their gravidation? And what effect it will have upon the Whelps?

_There_ were some other _Quæries_ proposed by the same _Author_; as, the weighing of the _Emittent_ Animal before the Operation, that (making an abatement for the Effluviums, and for the Excrements, if it voids any) it may appear, how much blood it really loses. To which were annext divers others not so fit to be perused but by _Physitians_, and therefore here omitted.

* * * * *

_A Method for Observing the _Eclipses of the Moon_, free from the Common Inconveniencies, as it was left by the Learned Mr. _Rook_, late _Gresham_-Professor of Geometry._

Eclipses of the Moon are observed for two principal ends; One _Astronomical_, that by comparing Observations with Calculations, the _Theory_ of the _Moons Motion_ may be perfected, and the _Tables_ thereof reformed: the other, _Geographical_, that by comparing among themselves the Observations of the same _Ecliptick Phases_, made in _divers_ places, the _Difference_ of _Meridians_ or _Longitudes_ of those places may be discerned.

The Knowledge of the Eclipse's Quantity and Duration, the Shadows, Curvity, and Inclination, &c. conduce only to the former of these ends. The exact time of the Beginning, Middle, and End of Eclipses, as also in _Total_ ones, the Beginning and End of _Total_ darkness, is useful for both of them.

But because in Observations made by the _bare_ Eye, these times considerably differ from those with a _Telescope_; and, because the _Beginning_ of Eclipses, and the _End_ of _Total_ darkness, are scarce to be observed exactly, even with Glasses (none being able clearly to distinguish between the _True_ Shadow and _Penumbra_, unless he hath seen, for some time before, the Line, separating them, pass along upon the Surface of the Moon;) and lastly, because in small {389} _Partial_ Eclipses, the Beginning and End, and in _Total_ ones of short continuance in the Shadow, the Beginning and End of _Total_ darkness, are unfit for nice Observations, by reason of the slow change of _Apparences_, which the _Oblique_ Motion of the Shadow then causeth. For these reasons I shall propound a _Method_ peculiarly design'd for the Accomplishment of the _Geographical_ end in Observing Lunar Eclipses, free (as far as is possible) from all the mentioned Inconveniences.

For, _First_, It shall not be practicable without a Telescope. _Secondly_, The Observer shall alwayes have opportunity before his principal Observation, to note the Distinction between the _True Shadow_ and the _Penumbra_. And, _Thirdly_, It shall be applicable to those Seasons of the Eclipse, when there is the suddenest Alteration in the _Apparences_.

To satisfie all which intents,

Let there be of the Eminentest _Spots_, dispersed over all Quarters of the Moons Surface, a select number generally agreed on, to be constantly made use of, to this purpose, in all parts of the World. As, for Example, those, which _M. Hevelius_ calleth,

{ Sinai.
{
{ Æthna. { Besbicus. { Mæotis.
Mons { Insula. { Palus {
{ Porphyrites. { Creta. { Maræotis.
{ Lacus Niger Major.
{ Serorum.

Let in each _Eclipse_, not all, but (for instance) three of these _Spots_, which then lie nearest to the _Ecliptick_, be exactly observed, when they are first touch'd by the _True_ Shadow, and again, when they are just compleatly entred into it, and (if you please) also in the _Decrease_ of the Eclipse, when they are first fully clear from the _True_ Shadow: For the accurate determinations of which moments of time (that being in this business of main importance) let there be taken _Altitudes_ of remarkable _Fixed Stars_ on this {390} side of the _Line_, of such, as lie between the _Æquator_ and _Tropick_ of _Cancer_; but _beyond_ the _Line_, of such, as are situate towards the other _Tropick_; and in all places, of such, as at the time of Observation, are about 4. hours distant from the _Meridian_.

* * * * *

_An Account of some Observations, lately made in _Spain_, by His Excellency the _Earl of Sandwich_._

The Right Honourable the _Earl of Sandwich_, as he appears eminent in discharging the Trust, his Majesty hath reposed in him, of Ambassador Extraordinary to the King of _Spain_; so he forgets not in the midst of that Employment, that he is a Member of the _Royal Society_; but does from time to time, when his weighty State-Negotiations do permit, imploy himself in making considerable Observations of divers kinds, both _Astronomical_ and _Physiological_; and communicateth the same to the said _Society_; as for instance, lately, what he has observ'd concerning the _Solar Eclipse_ in _June_ last, the Suns height in the Solstice, and also the Latitude of _Madrid_, esteeming by the Suns Altitude in the _Solstice_, and by other Meridian Altitudes, the _Latitude_ of _Madrid_ to be 40 deg. 10 min; which differs considerably from that assigned by others; the General Chart of _Europe_ giving to it 41 deg. 30 min. the General Map of _Spain_, 40 deg. 27 min. A large Provincial Map of _Castile_, 40 deg. 38 min.

To these particulars, and others formerly imparted, his Excellency is making more of the same nature; and particularly those of the Immersion of the _Satellites_ of _Jupiter_.

We must not omit mentioning here, what he hath observed of _Halo_'s about the _Moon_; which he relates in these words;

_Decemb._ 25. _Old Style_, 1666. In the Evening, here (vid. at _Madrid_) was a great _Halo_ about the Moon, the _Semidiameter_ whereof was about 23 deg. 30 min. _Aldebaran_ was just in the _North-east_ part of the _Circle_, and the two Horns of _Aries_ just enclosed by the _South-west_ of the _Circle_, the Moon being in the _Center_. I note this the rather (_saith he_) because five or six years ago, vid. _Novemb._ 21. _Old Style_, 1661. an hour after Sun-set, I saw a great _Halo_ about the Moon of the same _Semidiameter_, {391} at _Tangier_, the Moon being very near the same place, where she was now.

* * * * *

_Extract of a Letter, lately written by Mr. _Nathaniel Fairfax_ to the _Publisher_, containing Observations about some _Insects_, and their Inoxiousness, &c._

The Ingenious Author of this Letter, as he expresses an extraordinary desire to see the _Store-house_ of _Natural Philosophy_, more richly fraughted (a Work begun by the single care and conduct of the Excellent Lord _Verulam_, and prosecuted by the Joynt-undertakings of the _R. Society_) so he very frankly offers his Service in contributing some of his Observations, and begins in this very Letter to perform his Offer. For, Having taken notice of what was publisht in _Numb. 9. p. 161_. out of the _Italian_ Philosopher _Redi_, vid. That Creatures, reputed Venomous, are indeed no Poysons, when swallow'd, though they may prove so, when put into Wounds: He, for confirmation thereof, alledges Examples of several Persons well known to him (himself also having been an Eye-witness to some such Experiments) who have frequently swallow'd _Spiders_, even of the rankest kind, without any more harm than happens to Hens, Robin-red-breasts, and other Birds, who make Spiders their daily Commons. And having made mention of some men, that eat even _Toads_, he adds, that though a Toad be not a Poyson to us in the whole; yet it may invenome outwardly, according to some parts so and so stirr'd; an instance whereof he alledges in a Boy, who stumbling on a Toad, and hurling stones at it, some Juyce from the bruised Toad chanced to light upon his Lips, whereupon they swell'd, each to the thickness of about two Thumbs: And he neglecting to use, what might be proper to restore them, they have continued in that mishapen size ever since; the ugliness whereof, when the Relator saw, gave him occasion to inquire after the cause of it, which thereupon he understood to be, as has been recited.

On this occasion, the same Gentleman relates, that once seeing a Spider bruised into a small Glass of Water, and that it tinged {392} it somewhat of a Sky-colour, he was, upon owning his surprise thereat, informed, that a dozen of them being put in, they would dye it to almost a full _Azure_. Which is touch't here, that, the Experiment being so easie to make, it may be tried, when the season furnishes those Insects; meantime, it seems not more incredible, that this Creature should yield a Sky-colour, when put in water, than that _Cochineel_, which also is but an Insect, should afford a fine _red_, when steep'd in the same Liquor.

* * * * *

_An Account Of Some Books._

_I._ Le Tome troisieme et dernier des Lettres de _M. DES-CARTES_.

As the two first _Tomes_ of M. _Des-Cartes_ his Letters, contain Questions, for the most part of a _Moral_ and _Physiological_ Nature, proposed to, and answer'd by him; so _this_ consists of the Contests, he had upon several Subjects with divers Men eminent in his time.

To pass by that sharp Contest, he was engaged in by some Professors of Divinity at _Utrecht_, who endeavoured to discredit his Philosophy, as leading to Libertinisme and Atheisme, notwithstanding he made it so much his business, as to assert the Existence of a Deity, and the Immortality of a Soul: We shall take notice of what is more to our purpose, _vid._ the Differences, he had touching his _Dioptricks_ and _Geometry_.

As for his _Dioptricks_, though a great part of the Learned World have much esteem'd that Treatise, as leaving little to be said after him upon that Subject; yet there have not been wanting Mathematicians, who have declared their disagreement from his Principles in that Doctrine. The first of them was the Jesuit _Bourdin_, Mathematick Professor in the Colledg of _Clermont_ at _Paris_; but this difference was soon at an end. A second was Mr. _Hobbs_, upon whose account he wrote several Letters to _Mersennus_, containing many remarks conducing to the Knowledge of the Nature of _Reflection_ and _Refraction_. But the Person, that did most learnedly and resolutely attack the said _Dioptricks_, was Monsieur _Fermat_, {393} writing first about it to _Mersennus_, who soon communicated his Objections to M. _Des-Cartes_, who failed not to return his Answer to them. But _Fermat_ replied, and _Des-Cartes_ likewise; and after many reciprocations, in which each party pretended to have the advantage, the matter rested; until M. _Fermat_ taking occasion to write afresh of it to M. _De la Chambre_, several years after _Des-Cartes_'s death, upon occasion of a Book, written M. _De la Chambre_, _Of Light_; discoursed with this new _Author_ after the same rate, as he had done before with _Des-Cartes_ himself, and seemed to invite some-body of his friends, to re-assume the former contest. Whereupon M. _Clerselier_ and M. _Rohault_ took up the Gantlet, to assert the Doctrine of the deceased Philosopher, exchanging several Letters with M. _Fermat_, all inserted in this _Tome_, and serving fully to instruct the Reader of this Difference, and withal to elucidate many difficult points of the Subject of _Refractions_; especially of this particular, _Whether the Motion of Light is more easily, and with more expedition, perform'd through _dense_ Mediums, than _rare_._

Besides this, though one would think, Disputes had no place in _Geometry_, since all proofs there, are as many Demonstrations; yet M. _Des-Cartes_ hath had several scufles touching that Science. As M. _Fermat_ had assaulted his _Dioptricks_, so He reciprocally examined his Treatise _De Maximis & Minimis_, pretending to have met with _Paralogismes_ in it. But the Cause of M. _Fermat_ was learnedly pleaded for, by some of his Friends, who took their turn to examine the Treatise of _Des-Carte_'s Geometry; whereupon many _Letters_ were exchanged, to be found this Book, and deserving to be considered; which doubtless the Curious would easily be induced to do, if Copies of this Book were to be obtain'd here in _England_, besides that one, which the _Publisher_ received from his _Parisian_ Correspondent, and which affords him the opportunity of giving this, though but Cursory, Account of it.

As to _Physicks_, there occur chiefly two Questions, learnedly treated of in this _Volume_, though not without some heat between M. _Des-Cartes_ and M. _Roberval_. The _one_ is, touching the Vibrations of Bodies suspended in the Air, and their Center of Agitation: about which, there is also a Letter inserted of {394} M. _Des-Cartes_ to that late Noble and Learned English Knight, Sir _Charles Cavendish_. The _other_ is, whether Motion can be made without supposing a _Vacuum_: where 'tis represented, That, if one comprehend well the Nature, ascribed to the _Materia subtilis_, and how Motions, called _Circular_, are made, which need not be just _Ovals_ or _true_ Circles, but are only called Circular, in regard that their Motion ends, where it had begun, whatever irregularity there be in the Middle; and also, that all the Inequalities, that may be in the Magnitude or Figure of the parts, may be compensated by other inequalities, met with in their Swiftness, and by the facility, with which the parts of the _Subtle Matter_, or of the first _Cartesian_ Element, which are found every where, happen to be divided, or to accommodate their Figure to the Space, they are to fill up: If these things be well understood and considered, that then no difficulty can remain touching the Motion of the parts of Matter _in pleno_.

Besides all these particulars, treated of in this _Tome_, there occur many pretty Questions concerning _Numbers_, the _Cycloid_, the manner of _Working Glasses for Telescopes_, the way of _Weighing Air_, and many other Curiosities, Mathematical and Physical.

_II. _ASTRONOMIA REFORMATA_, Auctore _JOHANNE BAPT. RICCIOLI_, Soc. Jesu._

For the Notice of this Book, and the Account of the Chief Heads contained therein, we are obliged to the _Journal des Scavans_; which informs us,

_First_, That the Design of this Work is, that, because several _Astronomers_, having had their several _Hypotheses_, there is found so great a diversity of opinions, that it is difficult thence to conclude any thing certain; this Author judged it also necessary, to compare together all the best Observations, and upon examination of what they have most certain in them, to reform upon that measure the Principles of Astronomy.

_Secondly_, That this _Volume_ is divided into two Parts, whereof the _First_ is composed of _Ten_ Books; in which the Author {395} considers the principal Observations, hitherto made of the Motion of the Planets and the Fixed Stars, of their Magnitude, Figure, and other Accidents; drawing thence several Conclusions, in which he establishes his _Hypothesis_. The _second_ contains his _Astronomical Tables_, made according to the _Hypotheses_ of the First Part, together with Instructions teaching the manner of using them.

_Thirdly_, That Astronomers will find in this Book many very remarkable things, concerning the _Apparent Diameter of the Sun_ and the other Stars, the Motion of the _Libration of the Moon_, the _Eclipses_, _Parallaxes_, and _Refractions_: And that this Author shews, that there is a great difference between _Optical_ and _Astronomical_ Refraction, which _Tycho_ and many others have confounded; undertaking to prove, that, whereas these _Astronomers_ have believed, that the remoter any Star is, the less is its Refraction, on the contrary the Refraction is the greater, the more a Star is distant. And among many other things, he ingeniously explicates the two contrary Motions of the Sun, from East to West, and _vice versa_, by one onely Motion upon a _Spiral_, turning about a _Cone_.

_Fourthly_, That he represents, How uneasie it is to establish sure Principles of this Science, by reason of the difficulties of making exact Observations. So, for example, in the Observation of the _Equinox_, every one is mistaken by so many _Hours_, as he is of _Minutes_, in the Elevation of the _Pole_, or the Diameter of the Sun, or the Refraction, or in any other circumstance. In the Observation of the _Solstice_, the error of one only _Second_ causeth a mistake of an _Hour_ and an _half_: mean time 'tis almost impossible to avoid the error of a _Second_; and even the sharpest sight will not be able to perceive it, except it be assisted with an Instrument of a prodigious bigness. For to mark _Seconds_, though Lines were drawn as subtil as the single threds of a Silk-worms Clew, (which are the smallest spaces to be discerned by the sharpest Eye) by the Calculation made by this Author there would need an Instrument of 48. feet _Radius_, since Experience shews, that there needs no more at most, than 3600. threds of Silk to cover the space of an _inch_. But, suppose one could have a _Quadrant_ of this bigness, who can assure himself, that dividing it into {396} 324000. parts (for so many _Seconds_ there are in 90. _Degrees_) either in placing it, or in observing, he shall not mistake the thickness of a single thred of Silk? He adds, that Great Instruments have their defects, as the small ones: For in those, that are _Movable_, if the thred, on which the Lead hangs, is any thing big, it cannot exactly mark _Seconds_; if it be very fine, it breaks, because of its great length, and the weight of the Lead: And in the _Fixed_ ones, the greater the _Diameter_ is, the less the Shadow or the Light is terminated; so that it is painful enough, exactly to discern the extremities thereof. Yet 'tis certain, that the greater the Instruments are, the surer _Astronomers_ may be: Whence it is, the some _Astronomers_ have made use of _Obelisks_ of a vast bigness, to take the _Altitudes_; and Signior _Cassini_, after the example of _Egnatio Dante_, caused a hole to be made on the highest part of a Wall of 95. feet in a Church at _Bononia_, through which the beams of the Sun falling on the Floor, mark as exactly as is possible, the height of that Luminary.

_Fifthly_, That the Author reasons for the _Immobility of the Earth_ after this manner. He supposes for certain, that the swiftness of the Motion of heavy bodies doth still _increase_ in their descent; to confirm which principle, he affirms to have experimented, That, if you let fall a Ball into one of the Scales of a Ballance, according to the proportion of the height, it falls from, it raiseth different weights in the other Scale. For example, A Wooden Ball, of 1½ ounce, falling from a height of 35 inches, raiseth a weight of 5. ounces; from the height of 140 inches, a weight of 20 ounces; from that of 315 inches, one of 45 ounces; and from another of 560 inches, one of 80 ounces, &c. From this principle he concludes the Earth to be at Rest; for _saith he_, if it should have a Diurnal Motion upon its Center, Heavy Bodies being carried along with it by its motion, would in descending describe a _Curve Line_, and, as he shews by a _Calculus_, made by him, run equal spaces in equal times; whence it follows, that the Celerity of their Motion would not increase in descending, and that consequently their stroke would not be stronger, after they had fallen thorow a longer space. {397}

_III. _ANATOME MEDULLAE SPINALIS, ET NERVORUM_ inde provenientium, _GERARDI BLASII_, M. D._

The Author shews in this little _Tract_ a way of taking the entire _Medulla Spinalis_, or Marrow of the Back, out of its _Theca_ or Bony Receptacle _without Laceration_; which else happens frequently, both of the Nerves proceeding from it, and of the Coats investing it; not to name other parts of the same. This he affirms to have been put into practice by himself, by a fine Saw and Wedge; which are to be dexterously used: and he produceth accordingly in excellent Cuts, the Representations of the Structure of the said _Medulla_ thus taken out, and the _Nerves_, thence proceeding; and that of several Animals, Dogs, Swine, Sheep.

He intermixes several Observations, touching the _Singleness_ of this _Medulla_, against _Lindanus_ and others; its _Original_; vid. Whether it be the Root of the Brain, or the Brain the Root of it: its difference of _Softness_ and _Hardness_ in several Animals; where he notes, that in _Swine_ it is much softer than in Dogs, &c.

He exhibits also the Arteries, Nerves, and Veins, dispersed through this _Medulla_, and inquires, Whether the _Nerves_ proceed from the _Medulla_ it self, or its _Meninx_; and discourses also of the _Principle_ and _Distribution_ of the Nerves; referring for ampler information in this and the other particulars, to that Excellent Book of the Learned Dr. _Willis_, _De Anatome Cerebri_. {398}

* * * * *

_Advertisement._

_It was thought fit to publish here_ the following _Advertisement_ of
_John Evelyn_ Esquire, and that, as himself proposed it. _Viz_,

Being much solicited by many worthy Persons, to publish a _Second Edition_ of my Discourse and Directions concerning _Timber, &c._ which was printed at the Command and by the Encouragement of the _R. Society_, I do humbly request, that if any Person have any Material, Additions or Reformations, which he thinks necessary either to the Part, which concerns the Improvement of _Forrest-Trees_, or that of _Cider_, he would be pleased to communicate his Notes and Directions to Mr. _H. Oldenburgh_, one of the Secretaries of the said Society, at his House in the _Palmal_ of _St. James's Fields Westminster_, with what speed they conveniently can, before our _Lady-day_ next, to be inserted into this intended _Edition_.

* * * * *

NOTE,

_What was observed, _Numb. 20_. p. 364, l. 18, of the Number of _Vegetables_,_ (_vid._ That they are about 410.) _found in _England_; and catalogued by Dr. _Merret_ in his _Pinax_, &c. is to be understood only of the _different Kinds_ of Plants, not of the several sorts of several Plants; for, these being comprised, the Number will amount to about 1400._

* * * * *

{399}

THE _PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS_ OF Two Years, 1665 and 1666, beginning _March_ 6. 1665. and ending with _February_ 1666; abbreviated in an ALPHABETICAL TABLE: And also afterwards Digested into a more _NATURAL METHOD_.

In the TABLE, the first _Figure_ signifies the _Number_ of the _Tracts:_ the second, the _Page_, as it is remarked in the same.

A.

_Agriculture_, Head of Inquiries concerning it. _num._ 5 _pag._ 91.

_Air._ The weight of it in all changes, by wind, weather, or whatever
other influence observable by a standing _Mercurial Balance_, call'd
a _Baroscope_, hinted in reference to M. _Hooks_ Micrography, n. 2.
p. 31.
applied to particulars by Dr _Beale_, 9. 153.
with additions, 10. 163.
described with observables relating to an Earth-quake about _Oxford_ by
Dr. _Wallis_, 10. 167.
Mr. Boyle's remarks on the same, 11. 181.
The _Wheel-Baroscope_ improved and delineated by M. _Hook_, 13. 218.
Another Balance of the Air contrived by M. _Boyle_, and call'd
_Statical_, by which the former may be exactly stated and examin'd
for many particular applications, 14. 231.

_Anatome_, see _Flesh_, _Blood_, _Animals_, _Lungs_, _Petrification_,
_Taste_; item, _Steno_, _Graeff_, _Bellinus_, _Redi_, in the _Liste
of Books_.

_Animals_, one may live by the blood of another, the whole mass of his
own blood being drawn out, and the blood of another infus'd in the
mean time, 20. 353. See _Bloods Tranfusion_.
The Generation and Functions of Animals deduced by Mechanical
principles, without recourse to _substantial form_, 18. 325. See
_Honor. Fabri._ & n. 20. p. 365. See also _Guarini_.

_Artificial Instruments_ or _Engins._ To weigh _air_, see _Baroscope_, or
rather _Air_.
To discern drought or moisture of the Air, see _Hygroscope_. n. 2. p.
31.
appliable in the observation of _Tydes_, 17. 300.
_Thermometers_, to measure degrees of heat and cold, 2. 31.
described, 10. 166.
applied in the examination of _Tydes_, 17. 300.
An Instrument for graduating _Thermometers_, to make them _Standards_
of heat and cold, 2. 31.
A new Engine for grinding any Optick Glasses of a Sphærical figure, 2.
31.
To measure the Refractions of Liquors of all kinds, for establishing
the Laws of Refraction, 2. 32.
To break the hardest Rocks in _Mines_, 5. 82.
To try for _fresh_ waters at the bottom of the _Seas_, 9. 147.
To find the greatest depths in the Sea, 9. 147.
The _Engin_ for fetching up fresh water defended by Explication, 13.
228.
Huge _Wheels_, and other Engins for _Mines_, 2. 23.
By the fall of water to blow wind, as with Bellows, 2. 25.
{400}

_Astronomical_ Remarks of a _New Star_ seen by _Hevelius_ in _Pectore
Cygni_, which he supposeth to be the same, which _Kepler_ saw A.
1601. and continued until 1602. and was not seen again until 1662.
and then almost always hiding it self till 24. _Nov._ 1666. _That_,
seen by _Kepler_ was of the third magnitude; this now, of the sixth
or seventh. Q. Whether it changes place and magnitude, 19. 349.
The _Scheme_, 21. 372.
A _New Star_ in _Collo Ceti_, observ'd from 1638, to 1664, 1665, 1666.
with its vicissitudes and periods, and causes of change, open'd by
_Bullialdus_, who conceives the bigger part of that round body to
be obscure, and the whole to turn about its own Center, 21. 382.
Another _New Star_ call'd _Nebulosa_ in _Cingulo Andromedæ_, seen when
the Comet appear'd 1665. observ'd by the said _Bullialdus_ to
appear and disappear by turns, _ibid._ 383.
A method for observing the _Eclipses of the Moon_, free from the common
Inconveniences, by M. _Rook_, 22. 387.

B.

_Baroscope._ See _Air_ and _Artificial_ Instruments.

_Blood._ The new Operation of _Transfusing_ blood into the veins, out of
one Animal into another; with considerations upon it, 20. 353.
The first Rise of this Invention, 7. 208.
The Success, 19. 352.
Proposals and Queries, for the improvement of this Experiment, by M.
_Boyle_, 22. 385, 386.