Chapter XXXIII: Book XXXI (6)

[1987] Possibly the plant mentioned in B. xxv. c. 54; though the Aristolochia has not leaves like those of the myrtle.

[1988] Supposed to be identical with the Polygonos, mentioned above in c. 91.

[1989] See B. ix. c. 42, and B. xxvi. c. 11. From this passage it would appear that the mæna was preserved in a somewhat similar way to our Sardines.

[1990] See B. xxvi. c. 11.

[1991] The reading of this word is very doubtful. It is generally supposed to be the Rheum Rhaponticum of Linnæus, Pontic rhubarb.

[1992] The shores of the Euxine.

[1993] See B. xii. c. 25.

[1994] “Fulvum,” probably, “tawny-coloured,” not white, red, or black; see B. xiv. cc. 11, 18.

[1995] Possibly the Reseda alba of Linnæus.

[1996] “Reseda, morbos reseda.” A pun upon the name of the plant, and the verb “resedo.”

[1997] Like the silly charm itself, “neither head nor tail.”

[1998] See B. xxvi. c. 27.

[1999] The Stœchades. See B. iii. c. 11, and B. xxxii. c. 11.

[2000] See B. xxi. c. 105, and c. 44 of this Book. The black nightshade is neither astringent nor cooling, but a narcotic poison.

[2001] De Re Med. ii. 33.

[2002] See B. xix. cc. 48, 62. It is generally identified with the Smyrnium perfoliatum of Linnæus, the Perfoliated alexander.

[2003] “Anethi” is a preferable reading to “apii,” “parsley.”

[2004] See B. xxiv. c. 60.

[2005] See B. xxi. c. 21.

[2006] See B. xxi. c. 86.

[2007] See B. xxvi. c. 60.

[2008] “Fish-sauce.” See B. ix. c. 30, and B. xxxi. c. 43.

[2009] Possibly the same plant as the Sison of Dioscorides, identified with the Sison amomum of Linnæus, Field hone-wort, or stone-parsley.

[2010] Identified by Fée with the Sedum Telephium of Linnæus, the Orpine or livelong; by Desfontaines with the Sedum anacampseros, the Ever-green orpine; and by Littré with the Cerinthe aspeva, the Prickly honey-wort.

[2011] “Vitiligini.”

[2012] The same plant as the Callitrichos of B. xxv. c. 86.

[2013] See B. xxii. c. 30.

[2014] Identified by Fée and Desfontaines with the Thalictrum minus of Linnæus, the Small meadow rue. Littré gives the Thalictrum flavum of Linnæus, the Common meadow rue.

[2015] In its colour.

[2016] Fée identifies it with the Thlaspi campestre of Linnæus, the Wild bastard-grass; Littré with the Thlaspi bursa pastoris of Linnæus, Shepherd’s purse, otherwise known as Capsella bursa pastoris. Desfontaines gives as the Thlaspi of Galen, the Cochlearia draba of Linnæus.

[2017] “Peltarum specie.” The “pelta” was a small, light shield, of various forms, but most commonly, perhaps, that of a crescent.

[2018] From θλάω, “to break.”

[2019] “Persian mustard.” The Lunaria annua of Linnæus, the Annual moon-wort, honesty, or satin-flower, has been suggested by Sprengel, but its identity is very doubtful.

[2020] This plant is unknown. A rose of this name is mentioned in B. xxi. c. 10.

[2021] See B. xiii. c. 36. Fée suggests that it may possibly be a variety of the Pistacia lentiscus of Linnæus, the Mastich-tree, or lentisk. Desfontaines identifies it with the Hypericon hircinum. M. Fräas (_Synopsis_, p. 182) suggests the Origanum maru.

[2022] See B. xiii. c. 37. M. Fräas (_Synopsis_, p. 257) identifies it with the Ephedra distachya of Linnæus, the Great shrubby horsetail.

[2023] “Goat’s-beard. Probably the Tragopogon crocifolium of Linnæus, the Saffron-leaved goat’s beard. Though its properties are not inert; it is never used in medicine”.

[2024] In B. xx. c. 3.

[2025] See c. 41 of this Book.

[2026] See B. xxv. c. 70.

[2027] See B. xxv. c. 54.

[2028] A kind of fœtid beetle, Hardouin says. Probably an Aphis.

[2029] “Serpentis.”

[2030] See B. xxii. c. 3.

[2031] It is with regret that at the close of this Book, we take leave of the valuable Annotations of M. Fée, a series of illustrations which reflect the highest credit on his learning, his industry, and his critical acumen. Were the ancient authors in general subjected to the same minute examination and thorough enquiry which he has expended upon the Sixteen Botanical Books of Pliny, their value would be greatly enhanced, equally to the critical scholar, and to the general reader who makes his acquaintance with them through the medium of a translation. To say, that, in reference to their respective labours upon Pliny, M. Fée deserves our thanks almost equally with the learned Sillig—now, alas! no more—is to say much indeed in his praise, and to bestow upon him a commendation to which he is eminently entitled.

[2032] See end of B. xx.

[2033] See end of B. xiv.

[2034] See end of B. xii.

[2035] See end of B. xx.

[2036] See end of B. xx.

[2037] See end of B. vii.

[2038] See end of B. iii.

[2039] See end of B. xi.

[2040] See end of B. ii.

[2041] Beyond being mentioned here, and in c. 14 of this Book, nothing is known of this writer.

[2042] See end of B. xx.

[2043] See end of B. ii.

[2044] See end of B. viii.

[2045] See end of B. xix.

[2046] See end of B. viii.

[2047] See end of B. xix.

[2048] See end of B. xxi.

[2049] See end of B. xxi.

[2050] See end of B. vii.

[2051] See end of B. xx.

[2052] See end of B. xx.

[2053] See end of B. xv.

[2054] See end of B. xii.

[2055] See end of B. xv.

[2056] See end of B. xii.

[2057] See end of B. xx.

[2058] See end of B. xx.

[2059] See end of B. xx.

[2060] See end of B. xx.

[2061] See end of B. xx.

[2062] See end of B. xx.

[2063] See end of B. xx.

[2064] See end of B. xx.

[2065] See end of B. vii.

[2066] See end of B. xx.

[2067] See end of B. xx.

[2068] See end of B. xii.

[2069] See end of B. xi.

[2070] See end of B. xii.

[2071] See end of B. xx.

[2072] See end of B. xii.

[2073] See end of B. xx.

[2074] See end of B. xx.

[2075] See end of B. xx.

[2076] See end of B. xx.

[2077] See end of B. xx.

[2078] See end of B. xii.

[2079] See end of B. xx.

[2080] See end of B. xx.

[2081] See end of B. xxi.

[2082] See end of B. xx.

[2083] See end of B. xx.

[2084] See end of B. xx.

[2085] The trees and plants.

[2086] On the contrary, this and the four following Books are full of the most extravagant assertions, which bear ample testimony to his credulity notwithstanding the author’s repeated declarations that he does not believe in Magic. As Ajasson says, he evidently does not know what he ought to have inserted in his work, and what to reject as utterly unworthy of belief. His faults, however, were not so much his own as those of his age. Want of space, equally with want of inclination, compels us to forego the task of entering into an examination of the system of Animal Therapeutics upon which so much labour has been wasted by our author.

[2087] See B. viii. c. 97, _et seq._, and B. xxv. c. 89, _et seq._

[2088] See B. xxviii. c. 3.

[2089] This practice is mentioned with reprobation by Celsus and Tertullian. It was continued, however, in some degree through the middle ages, and Louis XV. was accused by his people of taking baths of infants’ blood to repair his premature decrepitude.

[2090] In recent times, Guettard, a French practitioner, recommended human marrow as an emollient liniment.

[2091] Hence, as Ajasson remarks, the ignorance of anatomy displayed by the ancients.

[2092] For further particulars as to Osthanes, see B. xxix. c. 80, and B. xxx. cc. 5 and 6; also cc. 19 and 77 of the present Book. The reading, however, is very doubtful.

[2093] “Oculorum suffusiones.” As Ajasson says, the remedy here mentioned reminds us of the more harmless one used by Tobias for the cure of the blindness of his father Tobit.

[2094] He gives a great many, however, which are equally abominable.

[2095] “Piacula.”

[2096] We may here discover the first rudiments of the doctrine of Animal Magnetism.

[2097] In accordance with the republican doctrines of Cato of Utica, Brutus, Cassius, and Portia.

[2098] Holland remarks, “Looke for no better divinitie in Plinie, a meere Pagan, Epicurean, and professed Atheist.” See B. vii. cc. 53, 54.

[2099] Whether or not, they cannot, as Ajasson remarks, be regarded as remedies _derived from_ the human body, being no part of the human body.

[2100] “Homini acceptum fieri oportere conveniat.” This passage is probably corrupt.

[2101] Beginning with an address to Janus and Vesta, imploring their intercession with the other divinities, and concluding with an appeal to Janus.

[2102] “Impetritis.”

[2103] “Qui favere linguis jubeat.” “Favete linguis” were the words used in enjoining strict silence.

[2104] By him who is offering up the prayer.

[2105] A trick adroitly performed by the priests, no doubt.

[2106] Given by Livy, in Books viii. and x.

[2107] To death, in battle, for the good of their country.

[2108] Preserved by Valerius Maximus, B. viii. c. 1. Tertullian and Saint Augustin doubt the authenticity of the story. She is said to have carried water in a sieve from the river Tiber to the temple of Vesta.

[2109] “Forum Boarium;” in the Eighth Region of the City.

[2110] Of Gaul, as Plutarch informs us, who mentions also the Greek victims, The immolation of the Gauls is supposed to have happened in the beginning of the reign of Vespasian.

[2111] Originally the “Decemviri Sacris Faciundis,” whose number was increased by Sylla to fifteen. They had the management of the Games of Apollo, and the Secular Games.

[2112] In B. ii. c. 54.

[2113] It has been suggested that Tullus Hostilius was acquainted with some of the secrets of electricity, and that he met his death while trying experiments with a lightning conductor. See B. ii. c. 54.

[2114] Ajasson thinks that there is an equivoque here upon the word “templum,” which signified not only a building, but certain parts of the heavens, and corresponding lines traced on the earth by the augur’s staff.

[2115] This story is mentioned by Plutarch, in the Life of Publicola.

[2116] In which case it was considered necessary to repeat the words, “Accipio omen,” “I accept the omen.”

[2117] “Qui fruges excantassit.”

[2118] “Qui malum carmen incantassit.”

[2119] Ajasson is of opinion that this name was either Favra or Fona, Acca, Flora, or Valesia or Valentia.

[2120] “As in saying thus, The Devill take thee, or The Ravens peck out thine eyes, or I had rather see thee Pie peckt, and such like.”—_Holland_.

[2121] It is a superstition still practised to pierce the shell of an egg after eating it, “lest the witches should come.” Holland gives the following Note—“Because afterwards no witches might pricke them with a needle in the name and behalfe of those whom they would hurt and mischeefe, according to the practice of pricking the images of any person in wax; used in the witchcraft of these daies.” We learn from Ajasson that till recently it was considered a mark of ill-breeding in France not to pierce the shell after eating the egg. See also Brand’s Popular Antiquities, Vol. III. p. 19, _Bohn’s Ed._

[2122] See the Eighth Eclogue of Virgil.

[2123] “That is to say, _Arse verse_, out of Afranius, as Festus noteth, which in the old Tuscane language signifieth, _Averte ignem_, Put backe the fire.”—_Holland_.

[2124] Odyss. xix. 457. It is not Ulysses, but the sons of Autolycus that do this. Their bandages, however, were more likely to be effectual.

[2125] De Enthusiasmo.

[2126] See B. xvii. c. 47.

[2127] In passing along the Velabrum, on the occasion of his Gallic triumph, the axle of the carriage having broke.

[2128] See Ovid’s Fasti, B. i. l. 175, _et seq._, and Epist. de Ponto. B. iv. El. 4. l. 23, _et seq._

[2129] See B. xi. c. 103.

[2130] Hence the saying, “De mortuis nil nisi bonum.”

[2131] “Defunctorum memoriam a nobis non sollicitari.”

[2132] It is still a saying, and perhaps a belief, that “There is luck in odd numbers.”

[2133] This has been a practice from the earliest times to the present day. See Brand’s Popular Antiquities, Vol. III. p. 123, _Bohn’s Ed_.

[2134] In France and England, at the present day, this notion, or rather, perhaps, the memory of it, is universally to be found. If the right ear tingles, some one is speaking well of us; if the left ear, the reverse.

[2135] King Attalus Philometor. See end of B. viii.

[2136] “Two.”

[2137] This passage, it is pretty clear, ought to follow the preceding one, though in the Latin it is made to precede.

[2138] The thumb was turned upwards as a mark of favour, downwards, as a mark of disfavour.

[2139] “Repositorium.”

[2140] It was not yet the custom to bring in several courses, each served up on a separate table.

[2141] Good manners possibly, more than superstition, may have introduced this practice.

[2142] Or Pluto. He alludes to the Feralia, or feasts celebrated, in the month of February, in honour of the dead.

[2143] Or household god.

[2144] The “Nundinæ,” held every ninth day; or rather every _eighth_ day, according to _our_ mode of reckoning.

[2145] Gronovius suggests a reading which would make this to mean that it is “ominous to touch money with the forefinger.” It does not appear to be warranted, however.

[2146] _Twenty-eighth_, according to _our_ reckoning.

[2147] Probably from their ominous resemblance to the Parcæ, or Fates, with their spindles.

[2148] “Frugum.”

[2149] “Princeps civitatis.”

[2150] “Rho” and “Alpha.”

[2151] In B. vii. c. 2.

[2152] In B. vii. c. 2, he speaks of these people—“the serpent-born”—as natives of Parium, a town of the Hellespont. Ajasson suggests that they may have been a branch of the Thamirades, a sacerdotal family of Cyprus.

[2153] “Dolium.”

[2154] See B. viii. c. 38.

[2155] Ajasson has thought it worth while to contradict this assertion.

[2156] Meaning, of course, _in case_ such an accident should befall the party. The passage appears, however, to be corrupt.

[2157] “Hasta velitaris.”

[2158] In B. vii. c. 2.

[2159] It is the _shoulder-blade_ of Pelops that is generally mentioned in the ancient Mythology. Pliny omits to say of what medicinal virtues it was possessed.

[2160] In B. vii. c. 2.

[2161] It certainly does seem to be possessed of some efficacy for the removal of spots and stains, but for no other purpose probably.

[2162] In some parts of France, the peasants spit in the hand when in terror of spectres at night. In our country, prize-fighters spit in the hand before beginning the combat, and costermongers spit on their morning’s handsel, or first earned money, for good luck.

[2163] “In sinum.”

[2164] See Juvenal, Sat. v. l. 112.

[2165] Ajasson remarks that the human spittle contains hydrochlorate of soda and potash; the remedial virtues of which, however, would be infinitely small.

[2166] A quibble, Ajasson remarks. Did Pliny ever test it himself? He would seem to imply it.

[2167] “Levatur illico in percusso culpa.”

[2168] This is still the case with pugilists, and persons requiring to use strong exertion. It is based, however, on a mere superstition, as Ajasson remarks.

[2169] “Malum terræ.” See B. xxv. c. 54, and B. xxvi. c. 56. Littré translates “malum,” “apple,” in the former passage; but here he calls it “curse of the earth.”

[2170] “Rubetas.” See B. viii. c. 48, B. xi. cc. 19, 76, and 116, and B. xxv. c. 76.

[2171] This divinity was identical with Mutinus or Tutinus, and was worshipped under the form of a phallus, the male generative organ. As the guardian of infants, his peculiar form is still unconsciously represented in the shape of the coral bauble with which infants are aided in cutting their teeth.

[2172] Hence the expression “præfiscini,” “Be it said without envy,” supposed to avert the effects of the envious eye, fascination, or enchantment.

[2173] “Resipiscere” seems to be a preferable reading to “respicere,” adopted by Sillig. This passage is evidently in a very corrupt state; but it is most probable that reference is made to the attendant who stood behind the general in his triumph, and reminded him that he was a man—or, according to Tzetzes, bade him look behind him. Pliny speaks of a servant attending the triumphant general, with a golden crown, in B. xxxiii. c. 4. Hardouin attempts another explanation, but a very confused and improbable one.

[2174] See end of the present Book.

[2175] Properly meaning “a cluster of grapes.”

[2176] Ajasson remarks that there is a considerable degree of truth in this assertion. He gives a long list of French works on the subject.

[2177] This superstition still exists among the lower classes of this country, with reference to the beneficial effects of stroking neck diseases with the hand of a man who has been hanged.

[2178] Made of “spartum.” See B. xix. cc. 6, 7.

[2179] Of which the Persian Magi were the most noted professors.

[2180] The “constat” here, whether it belongs to the magicians, or to Pliny himself, is highly amusing, as Ajasson remarks.

[2181] Sillig appears to be right in his conjecture that the “vel” here should be omitted.

[2182] See B. xv. c. 5.

[2183] “Ceroma.” A mixture of oil and wax.

[2184] Properly, “poppy juice.”

[2185] Or “clara lectio,” “reading aloud,” as Celsus calls it, recommending it for persons of slow digestion.

[2186] “Gestatio.” Exercise on horseback, in a carriage drawn by horses, or in a litter. See B. xxvi. c. 7.

[2187] See B. xxxi. c. 33. A sea voyage, to Madeira, for instance, is still recommended for consumptive patients.

[2188] Change of locality is still recommended for diseases of the spleen, as they are called.

[2189] “Strigilium.”

[2190] Except monkeys and some domesticated animals, Ajasson remarks.

[2191] “Non prandentium.”

[2192] Callistenes the physician is the person supposed to be alluded to. Lucullus did not seem to be of opinion that a man “must be a fool or a physician at forty.”

[2193] “Ut in quâ homo alius exsiliret ex homine.” The true meaning of this it seems impossible, with certainty, to ascertain: though a more indelicate one than that give might be easily suggested.

[2194] On the contrary, some authorities say it is apt to cause dimness of sight.

[2195] See Ovid, Met. ix. 273, _et seq._

[2196] Much more probably, because they were considered to be significant of anything but seriousness and attention.

[2197] Exemplified in the case of the Egyptians, Herodotus says.

[2198] The remedy would seem to be worse than the evil.

[2199] See end of B. vii.

[2200] In B. viii. c. 58.

[2201] A knot tied very hard, and in which no ends were to be seen.

[2202] This excretion was, till lately, thought of great importance, as indicative of the health of the patient.

[2203] From the Greek πτύω, “to spit.”

[2204] “Argema.”

[2205] Who had to use _lant_, or stale urine, in their business.

[2206] At a future period we shall have to discuss the identity of the “nitrum” of Pliny. See B. xxxi. c. 46.

[2207] This was also one of the Pythagorean precepts.

[2208] Works and Days, l. 727, _et seq._

[2209] The use of the word “prodidere” shows that treatises had been written on these abominable subjects. Laïs, Elephantis, and Salpe were probably the “meretrices” to whom he here alludes. See c. 23, and the end of this Book.

[2210] There is probably no foundation for this assertion.

[2211] “Rana.” He means the “rubeta” probably, or “bramble-frog,” so often mentioned by him. See Note 84, p. 290.

[2212] “Salivam.”

[2213] See B. xx. c. 2.

[2214] See B. xxx. c. 10. Latreille has written a very able treatise on the Buprestis of the ancients, and considers it to belong to the family of Cantharides. _Annales du Museum d’histoire Naturelle_, Vol. xix. p. 129, _et seq._

[2215] Convolvulus doryenium; see B. xxi. c. 105, and B. xxiii. c. 18.

[2216] “Œsypum.” See B. xxx. c. 23.

[2217] Possibly the Epic writer of that name, mentioned by Ovid, Seneca, Quintilian, and Velleius Paterculus.

[2218] “Fascia.” Either a stomacher, or a fillet for the head.

[2219] The mention of lightning here, Hardouin seems to look upon as an interpolation.

[2220] In B. vii. c. 13.

[2221] Columella describes this practice in verse, in B. x., and in B. xi. c. 3. Ælian also mentions it.

[2222] Sec B. vii. c. 13. Tacitus tells the same wonderful story.

[2223] See the end of this Book.

[2224] See B. vii. c. 13.

[2225] See B. vii. c. 13.

[2226] Pliny has omitted the milk of the camel, which, according to Tavernier, is an excellent cure for dropsy.

[2227] See B. viii. c. 44.

[2228] One peculiarity not mentioned by Pliny, is, that its skin, like that of the sea-calf, was said to be proof against the effects of lightning.

[2229] In B. viii. c. 44.

[2230] “Glaucomata.” Littré considers, on the authority of M. Sichel, that “Glaucoma” and “suffusio” are different names for the same disease—cataract.

[2231] See B. xxxvi. c. 27.

[2232] “Spinæ” seems a preferable reading to “ruinæ,” adopted by Sillig.

[2233] “Nodum Atlantion.” From the Greek ἄτλας, “much enduring,” Julius Pollux says, because it was fitted for supporting burdens. The “hinc”—“hence,” of Pliny here appears to be a _non sequitur_.

[2234] We shall have occasion to make enquiry as to the identity of the “alumen” of Pliny on a future occasion.

[2235] “Vanas species.”

[2236] See B. xviii. c. 14.

[2237] “Pila.”

[2238] Identified by Ajasson with the _chamses_, or common crocodile of the Nile.

[2239] See B. viii. c. 38. Identified by Ajasson with the _souchos_ of Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire. It is equally amphibious with the other; and the account of its habits given by Pliny is probably founded on the fact that Upper Egypt, which it inhabits, is covered with a more aromatic vegetation than the other parts of that country.

[2240] See B. xii. c. 51.

[2241] See B. xviii. c. 17.

[2242] It is a timid animal, but Pliny’s authorities have exaggerated its timidity.

[2243] This change of colour is in reality owing to change of locality.

[2244] A. Gellius tells the same story, B. x. c. 12.

[2245] And therefore harmless.

[2246] See B. xxii. c. 21.

[2247] See B. viii. c. 51. Flies and gnats are, in reality, its food.

[2248] One of the few pieces of wit in which Pliny is found to indulge.

[2249] See B. viii. c. 38. Probably the Lacerta ouaran of Cuvier.

[2250] See B. xxvi. c. 62.

[2251] In B. viii. c. 40.

[2252] See B. viii. c. 57.

[2253] Except, of course, when the mother is in a state of disease.

[2254] See B. xi. c. 96. Dalechamps remarks that Pliny is in error here: this name being properly given to infants which have been put to the breast too soon after child-birth. And so it would appear from the context.

[2255] The “biestings.”

[2256] Amalthæa.

[2257] Dioscorides says “river pebbles.”

[2258] In B. xxv. c. 53.

[2259] From the Greek σχιστὸν, “divided” milk, or “curds.”

[2260] See B. xxi c. 105.

[2261] He perhaps means a sulphate, and not sulphur, which is harmless.

[2262] In B. xi. c. 97.

[2263] From the Greek σαπρὸν, “rotten” cheese.

[2264] Like our cream cheese, or new milk cheese, probably.

[2265] The people of Germany and Scythia, for instance.

[2266] In this passage also it is generally supposed that he refers to the nomadic life of barbarous nations, in which multitudes of sheep and cattle constituted the chief wealth. It is, however, not improbable that he means to say that among the Romans it was only the wealthy who could afford to use it.

[2267] Βούτυρον, “cow cheese.”

[2268] Qy. whether for “aquæ,” “water,” we should not read “acidi” here, “sour milk,” as at the beginning of the next Chapter? Beckmann suggests “aceti,” “vinegar.”—_Hist. Inv._ I. 505, _Bohn’s Ed._

[2269] Beckmann says on this passage, “What Pliny says respecting _oxygala_ is attended with difficulties: and I am fully persuaded that his words are corrupted, though I find no variations marked in MSS. by which this conjecture can be supported.”—_Hist. Inv._ I. 505. He suggests another arrangement of the whole passage, but without improving it, for the difficulty would appear to be totally imaginary; as it is quite clear that by “oxygala,” or “sour milk,” Pliny means the thickest part of the curd, which is first removed and then salted, forming probably a sort of cream cheese. Though his meaning is clear, he may very possibly give an erroneous description of the process.

[2270] The remark of Holland on this passage is curious—“Some would amend this place, and for ‘magis,’ ‘more,’ put ‘minus,’ ‘less,’ in a contrary sense; but I suppose he writeth in regard of barbarous people, who make more account of such ranke butyr; like as the uncivile Irish in these daies.”

[2271] He has forgotten to do so, however.

[2272] From the Latin “axis,” an “axle,” and “ungo,” “to anoint.”

[2273] Hence it was a notion in the sixteenth century, that pitch and hogs’ lard is a cure for syphilis by promoting salivation.

[2274] “Farina salsamentariæ testæ.”

[2275] See B. xxxvi. c. 27.

[2276] “Sebum”—Suet or tallow.

[2277] Or Flamen Dialis. Festus gives another reason: lest the Flamen should travel to a distance, and so neglect his duties.

[2278] The “Equus October,” sacrificed to Mars on the Campus Martius in October. This sacrifice was attended with some very ridiculous ceremonies.

[2279] This, as already observed, was probably a fallacy.

[2280] See B. iv. c. 6.

[2281] His meaning is, that the excitement produced by religious feeling neutralizes that antipathy which, under ordinary circumstances, is manifested towards the system by bull’s blood.

[2282] See B. xxxiii. c. 6.

[2283] See B. viii. c. 50.

[2284] In B. viii. c. 50.

[2285] Or “hundred skins.” Called the _mirefeuillet_ in French.

[2286] In B. viii. c. 50.

[2287] See B. xxiv. c. 91.

[2288] See B. xx. c. 63.

[2289] The Anthemis pyrethrum of Linnæus, Spanish camomile or pellitory.

[2290] Possibly the Musmon of B. viii. c. 49. See also B. xxx. c. 52.

[2291] See B. xxiii. cc. 13, 14.

[2292] See B. xx. c. 67.

[2293] See B. viii. c. 76.

[2294] In B. viii. c. 76.

[2295] A remedy of which H. Cloquet highly approves, on chemical grounds.

[2296] Cloquet says that the application would be useless.

[2297] In B. viii. c. 34.

[2298] Cloquet and Ajasson admit the truth of this statement: the latter suggests that it may be owing to electricity.

[2299] It is no longer reckoned among the poisons.

[2300] Juice of carpathum, a substance which does not appear to have been identified; but supposed by Bruce to have been a gum called _sassa_, with which aloes are adulterated in Abyssinia, a thing that Galen tells us was done with the carpathum of the ancients. The sea-hare is the Aplysia depilans of Gmelin. It is not poisonous. See B. ix. c. 72, and B. xxxii. c. 3.

[2301] A composite poison, probably, the ingredients of which are now unknown.

[2302] See Chap. 21 of this Book.

[2303] See B. xx. c. 53.

[2304] See B. xi. c. 96.

[2305] On the contrary, cows’ biestings are highly thought of in some parts of England; and a very delicate dish is made of them, baked.

[2306] “Onager.”

[2307] See B. viii. c. 16, and B. xvi. c. 9.

[2308] See B. viii. c. 15.

[2309] See B. xxv. c. 107, and B. xxvi. c. 75.

[2310] See B. xxiii. cc. 13, 14.

[2311] “Toxica”—properly, those poisons in which the barbarous nations dipped their arrows.

[2312] See B. xxii. c. 21.

[2313] Or, sting-ray.

[2314] See B. xxix. c. 16.

[2315] This substance still maintains its reputation, as preservative of the hair.

[2316] See B. xii. c. 37, and B. xxvi. c. 30.

[2317] See B. xxii. c. 30.

[2318] See B. xxv. c. 67.

[2319] If they are occasioned by irritation, Ajasson thinks that Pliny’s remedy may be of some utility.

[2320] A cosmetic for “beautifying the eye-brows.”

[2321] “Collyria.”

[2322] This is the translation suggested by Dalechamps for “lumbulis.”

[2323] “Seers by night.”

[2324] “Sanie.”

[2325] See B. xiv. c. 4.

[2326] See B. xx. c. 75.

[2327] See B. xxvi. c. 31.

[2328] See B. xxi. c. 105.

[2329] See B. viii. c. 66.

[2330] See B. xi. c. 70. Ajasson remarks that this bone is only found in animals that have undergone much fatigue, and that it results from the consolidation of certain tendinous fibres which form the ligament of the heart.

[2331] “Capitum visus” seems to be a more probable reading than “capitum usus” given by Sillig. Be it what it may, the meaning of the passage is doubtful.

[2332] See Ælian, Var. Hist. xiv. 18.

[2333] There surely must be a wrong reading here, or he cannot intend this to be understood literally.

[2334] See B. xi. c. 96.

[2335] One of the mistresses of Louis XV. not only did this, but (in a spirit of great charity and consideration, of course) gave the milk to the poor after she had thus used it.

[2336] “Ad desideria mulierum.”

[2337] See c. 28 of this Book.

[2338] See Beckmann’s _Hist. Inv._ II. 92-3, _Bohn’s Ed._, where this subject is treated at considerable length.

[2339] “Rutilandis capillis.”

[2340] “Eam mori tradunt.” The reading here is very doubtful.

[2341] “Subulo.”

[2342] Asses’ milk is still recommended for pulmonary phthisis.

[2343] See B. viii. c. 16.

[2344] This would appear to be a Greek word in reality.

[2345] “Tunica.”

[2346] See B. xx. c. 2.

[2347] See B. xxv. c. 67. Mares’ milk is _not_ a purgative; and goats’ milk, as Ajasson remarks, is somewhat astringent. Juice of Cyclamen, on the other hand, or sow-bread, is highly purgative.

[2348] See B. xviii. c. 14.

[2349] In Chap. 57 of this Book.

[2350] “Protropum.” See B. xiv. cc. 9, 11.

[2351] A kind of black pudding. Dupinet, the old French translator, says that in his time the people of the Alpine regions still called this dish _sanchet_.

[2352] He uses “tænia” probably, as a general name for intestinal worms.

[2353] In c. 49 of this Book.

[2354] In c. 57 of this Book.

[2355] “Sapa.” Grape-juice boiled down to two-thirds: see B. xiv. c. 11.

[2356] In reality, these are biliary calculi, found in the gall-bladder of the animal. They are called “bezoar” stones, from a Persian word signifying “destructive to poison.”

[2357] See B. viii. c. 77.

[2358] In c. 49 of this Book.

[2359] Ajasson remarks that arsenic should be used with the greatest care in such a case.

[2360] “Rubi.” He probably means the bramble-berry.

[2361] See B. xviii. c. 14.

[2362] “Onager.”

[2363] Arising, by sympathy, from sores in other parts of the body.

[2364] See B. xxvi. c. 31. Bears’ grease is of no use whatever for the cure of gout.

[2365] See B. xix. c. 31, B. xxi. cc. 62, 104, and B. xxii. cc. 19, 20.

[2366] See B. xxi. c. 56.

[2367] This mode of cure, Ajasson says, is still employed in the East, where the preparation is known by the name of _moza_.

[2368] “Potum vero ex aquâ sublime.” The true reading and the meaning are equally doubtful.

[2369] Spoken of as “polea” in c. 57.

[2370] In B. viii. c. 50. Because the animal itself was supposed to be free from fever.

[2371] Or “quotidian,” daily fever.

[2372] A rather singular episode in his narrative. It looks like a gloss.

[2373] Under this name, as Ajasson remarks, the affections now called “hysteria” are included.

[2374] “Veternum.”

[2375] Another instance of smoking, though not a very tempting one.

[2376] See B. xviii. c. 29.

[2377] “Rupicapra”.

[2378] “Subulo”.

[2379] From the Greek.

[2380] See B. xix. c. 27, B. xx. c. 15, and B. xxv. c. 64.

[2381] “Eruptionibus pituitæ.”

[2382] Where the sinew has been wounded and exposed, either vinegar or honey, Ajasson remarks, would be a highly dangerous application.

[2383] “Reverentiores.”

[2384] “Trigario.”

[2385] See B. xii. c. 51.

[2386] See B. xxv. c. 101.

[2387] “Bad habit.” A sort of cancer, or malignant ulcer.

[2388] See B. xxiv. c. 35.

[2389] “Propolis.” See B. xi. c. 6.

[2390] In B. xi. c. 79.

[2391] See B. xxv. cc. 79, 84, 91.

[2392] See B. xiii. c. 49.

[2393] There is probably some truth in these statements as to the utility of butter and honey for infants.

[2394] Ajasson explains this by saying that the hare being eaten by the people of ancient Latium on festival days, with plenteous potations, they erroneously supposed the narcotic effects of the wine to be produced by the flesh of the hare.

[2395] The resemblance of “lepos,” “grace,” to “lepus,” “a hare.” See Martial, B. v. Ep. 29.

[2396] Georg. iii. 280. He alludes to the “hippomanes.”

[2397] Hardouin is probably right in his suggestion that “Dalion” is the correct reading here.

[2398] He has already stated, in c. 44, that a horse will become torpid if it follows in the track of a wolf; for which statement, according to Ajasson, there appears to be some foundation.

[2399] See B. xix. c. 15.

[2400] This is not unlikely; for it has no alarms to make it grow thin.

[2401] See B. viii. c. 41, as to a similar practice on the part of the panther.

[2402] See end of B. ii.

[2403] See end of B. ii.

[2404] For Fabianus Papirius, see end of B. ii. For Fabianus Sabinus, see end of B. xviii.

[2405] See end of B. ii.

[2406] See end of B. iii.

[2407] See end of B. iii.

[2408] Servius Sulpicius Lemonia Rufus, a contemporary and friend of Cicero. He was Consul with M. Claudius Marcellus, B.C. 51, and died B.C. 43, at the siege of Mutina. He left about 180 treatises on various subjects; but beyond the fact that he is often quoted by the writers whose works form part of the Digest, none of his writings (with the exception of two letters to Cicero) have come down to us.

[2409] See end of B. xix.

[2410] See end of B. vii.

[2411] See end of B. vii.

[2412] See end of B. xii.

[2413] From the mention made of him in Chap. 23, he was probably a physician. Nothing further is known of him.

[2414] Aurelius Opilius, the freedman of an Epicurean. He taught philosophy, rhetoric, and grammar at Rome, but finally withdrew to Smyrna. One of his works, mentioned by A. Gellius, was entitled “Musæ,” and the name of another was “Pinax.”

[2415] From the mention made of his profound speculations in Chap. 9, Fabricius has reckoned him among the medical writers of Rome. It has also been suggested that he may have been the Granius Flaccus mentioned by Censorinus as the author of the “Indigitamenta,” or Register of the Pontiffs.

[2416] See end of B. ii.

[2417] Probably Apollonius Mus, or Myronides, a physician who flourished in the first century B.C., who is mostly identified with Apollonius Herophileius. His “Myrosis” here mentioned is probably the work “On Unguents” mentioned by Athenæus, B. xv.

[2418] Nothing whatever is known of him. It has been suggested that the name may have been “Melitus.” A contemporary of Socrates, an orator and tragic writer, was so named.

[2419] Beyond the mention of him in c. 2 of this Book, nothing is known relative to this medical writer: no great loss, perhaps, if we may judge from the extract there given.

[2420] Though mentioned among the foreign writers, the name is evidently Roman. Nothing relative to him is known.

[2421] See end of B. xii.

[2422] See end of B. iii.

[2423] Probably the writer mentioned at the end of B. viii.

[2424] See end of B. viii.

[2425] See end of B. xx.

[2426] See end of B. xx. The “Idiophya” was probably a work “On the Peculiar Animals,” which passed as the composition of the mythic Orpheus.

[2427] A Greek poet, said to have been born at Chersonesus, a town in Egypt. Some of his Epigrams are still extant in the Anthology, and it has been suggested that he flourished either in the time of Ptolemy Soter, of Ptolemy Euergetes II., or of Ptolemy Philadelphus. His work “On Peculiar Animals,” here mentioned, was probably written in verse.

[2428] See end of B. viii.

[2429] A female writer on medical subjects. In addition to her work mentioned in Chap. 23 of this Book, Labbe speaks of a work of hers in MS. “On Menstruation,” preserved in the Library at Florence.

[2430] The female who is mentioned in Chap. 23 of this Book as having written on Abortion, or the Diseases peculiar to Females, was probably a different person from either of the two famous courtesans of that name. Nothing whatever is known of her.

[2431] The writer of certain amatory poems, much admired by the Emperor Tiberius, generally supposed, from the grammatical form of the name, to have been a female. Galen quotes a work “On Cosmetics,” as written by a person of this name.

[2432] A native of Lemnos, who wrote on the Diseases of Women. Nymphodorus, as quoted by Athenæus, states that she also wrote verses on Sportive subjects.

[2433] See end of B. xx.

[2434] Beyond the mention made of him in c. 23, nothing further is known relative to this writer. Theophrastus, in his work on Sudorifics, speaks of a person of this name as having written on Perspiration.

[2435] See end of B. xii.

[2436] See end of B. xx.

[2437] Beyond the mention made of him in c. 7 of this Book, nothing is known of this writer. Hardouin suggests that he may have been identical with the Micton mentioned at the end of B. xx.

[2438] He is spoken of as a native of Athens, in c. 10 of this Book. Beyond this, nothing is known of him.

[2439] See end of B. vii.

[2440] See end of B. ii.

[2441] See end of B. iii.

[2442] Or more probably, Hicetidas. Nothing is known of this writer.

[2443] A native of Thasos. He is also mentioned by Galen.

[2444] See end of B. vii.

[2445] See end of B. vi.

[2446] Probably a physician, of whom Athenæus speaks as being a native of Argos, and writer of a treatise on Fish.

[2447] Probably a different writer from the one of that name mentioned at the end of B. vi.

[2448] Περὶ δυνάμεων.

[2449] See end of B. xxi.

[2450] See end of B. v.

[2451] He must surely have forgotten Celsus; unless, indeed, Pliny was unacquainted with his treatise “De Medicinâ.”

[2452] Apollo and Æsculapius, Agenor, Hercules, Chiron, and others.

[2453] The husband of Leda, and the father of Castor, Timandra, Clytæmnestra, and Philonoë. Hippolytus also was fabled to have been raised from the dead by Æsculapius.

[2454] Hippocrates is generally supposed to have been born B.C. 460.

[2455] In order to destroy the medical books and prescriptions there. The same story is told, with little variation, of Avicenna. Cnidos is also mentioned as the scene of this act of philosophical incendiarism.

[2456] “Clinice”—Chamber-physic, so called because the physician visited his patients ἐν κλίνῃ, “in bed.”

[2457] It is supposed by most commentators that Pliny commits a mistake here, and that in reality he is alluding to Herodicus of Selymbria in Thrace, who was the _tutor_, and not the disciple, of Hippocrates. Prodicus of Selymbria does not appear to be known.

[2458] “Healing by ointments,” or, as we should call it at the present day, “The Friction cure.”

[2459] “Mediastinis.”

[2460] Pythias, the daughter of Aristotle, was his stepmother, and adopted him. His mother’s name was Cretoxena.

[2461] Or “Sect of Experimentalists.” They based their practice upon experience derived from the observation of facts. The word “Empiric” is used only in a bad sense at the present day. For an account of Hippocrates, see end of B. vii.; of Chrysippus, see end of B. xx.; and of Erasistratus, see end of B. xi.

[2462] See end of B. xi.

[2463] See end of B. xi.

[2464] See B. xi. c. 88. The Chinese, Ajasson remarks, apply the musical scale to the pulsation; it being a belief of the Mandarins that the body is a musical instrument, and that to be in health it must be kept in tune.

[2465] In B. xxvi. cc. 7, 8.

[2466] See end of B. xi.

[2467] See B. xix. c. 38.

[2468] Rather more than £4400.

[2469] More than £265,000.

[2470] For which he was put to death A.D. 48.

[2471] A native of Tralles in Lydia, and the son of a weaver there. Galen mentions him in terms of contempt and ridicule.

[2472] “Invasit.”

[2473] Ep. 53 and 83. His “adstipulatio” is of a very equivocal character, however.

[2474] “Turbâ medicorum perii.” This is supposed to be borrowed from a line of Menander—

Πολλῶν ἰατρῶν εἴσοδος μ’ ἀπώλεσεν.

[2475] “Flatu.”

[2476] Herodotus states this with reference to the Babylonians; Strabo, the Bastitani, a people of Spain; and Eusebius, the more ancient inhabitants of Spain.

[2477] See B. xx. c. 33.

[2478] See end of B. xii.

[2479] “Jus Quiritium.”

[2480] “Tabernam.” A surgery, in fact, the same as the “iatreion” of the Greeks.

[2481] Or “carrefour”—“compitum.” The Acilian _Gens_ pretended to be under the especial tutelage of the gods of medicine.

[2482] The “Wound-curer,” from “vulnus,” a wound.

[2483] “Executioner,” or “hangman.”

[2484] For his conquests in Spain.

[2485] “Illorum literas inspicere.”

[2486] On the principle that that which costs money _must_ be worth having.

[2487] The Opici or Osci were an ancient tribe of Italy, settled in Campania, Latium, and Samnium. From their uncivilized habits the name was long used as a reproachful epithet, equivalent to our words “bumpkin,” “clodhopper,” or “chawbacon.”

[2488] Marked by their supereminent absurdity, as Fée remarks.

[2489] Formed by the river Tiber. See the Quæst. Rom. of Plutarch, on this subject.

[2490] We have adopted Sillig’s suggestion, and read “nec” for “et” here. The meaning, however, is very doubtful.

[2491] “Augebo providentiam illorum.” The meaning of this passage also is doubtful.

[2492] By adopting that language instead of the Latin; Sextius Niger, for instance.

[2493] Diplomas seem to have been less cared for in those times than at the present day even, when quackery has so free a range.

[2494] See B. iii. c. 26, and B. xxxiii. cc. 7, 8.

[2495] “Inquisitio per parietes.” The reading is doubtful, but he not improbably alludes to the employment of spies.

[2496] Hardouin thinks that he alludes to Cornelius Balbus here, a native of Gades. See B. v. c. 5, and B. vii. 44.

[2497] “Electis viris datur tabula.” He alludes to the three tablets delivered to the Judices, one of which had inscribed on it “Acquitted,” another “Not proven,” and a third “Guilty”—_Absolvatur_, _Non liquet_, and _Condemno_.

[2498] “In this place he casteth in the Romans’ teeth, their _Lecticarii_, _Anagnostæ_, and _Nomenclatores_.”—_Holland_. Letter-bearers, readers, and prompters as to the names of the persons addressed.

[2499] He alludes to the resources of medicine.

[2500] A physician at Rome, who was afterwards put to the torture for this crime. Livia was the daughter of Drusus Nero, the brother of Tiberius.

[2501] Messalina, mentioned in c. 5 of this Book.

[2502] Nothing could possibly be more remote from his republican notions, than “reginæ” at Rome.

[2503] “Emovendam.” In order that a future job may be ensured.

[2504] In c. 5 of this Book.

[2505] “Vulnerum medico.”

[2506] “Ejus turbæ.”

[2507] See B. xxiv. c. 1.

[2508] The origin of our word “treacle.” See B. xx. c. 100, and Note 97.

[2509] Used as a round number, like our expression “ten thousand.”

[2510] See B. xxiii. c. 77, and B. xxv. c. 26.

[2511] “Minium.” This red lead had the name of “cinnabaris nativa,” whence the error.

[2512] In B. xxxiii. c. 38.

[2513] As tending to effeminacy, or undermining the constitution.

[2514] See B. xxviii. c. 13.

[2515] “Lucifugis congesta cubilia blattis.” Georg. I. 184, IV. 243.

[2516] Il. xvii. 670, _et seq._

[2517] He certainly does not _always_ keep this object in view.

[2518] See B. x. c. 2, and B. xii. c. 42.

[2519] A form of fever, Littré remarks, that is known by the moderns as “pseudo-continuous.”

[2520] See B. xvi. c. 19.

[2521] “Smectica” is suggested by Gesner, Hist. Anim., as a better reading than “septica.”

[2522] “Œsypum” is often mentioned by Ovid as a favourite cosmetic with the Roman ladies.

[2523] See B. xix. c. 1, B. xxiv. c. 58, and B. xxv. c. 21.

[2524] See B. xviii. c. 17.

[2525] See B. xx. c. 23.

[2526] Hermolaüs suggests “schista,” “divided,” and Dalechamps proposes “synchyta,” “mixed.” The reading is very doubtful.

[2527] Or Sowbread. See B. xxv. c. 67.

[2528] See B. xviii. c. 17.

[2529] In B. x. c. 80.

[2530] See B. xxiv. c. 54.

[2531] This is the fact, and it is similarly used for mending china. White of egg, mixed with whiskey or spirits of wine, will answer the purpose equally well.

[2532] Ajasson remarks that there is some slight truth in this assertion.

[2533] Pliny alludes here to the beads or rings of glass which were used by the Druids as charms to impose on the credulity of their devotees, under the name of _Glain naidr_, or “the Adder gem.” Mr. Luyd (in Rowland’s Mona Antiqua, p. 342) says that the genuine _Ovum anguinum_ can be no other than a shell of the kind called _echinus marinus_, and that Dr. Borlase observes that, instead of the natural _anguinum_, artificial rings of stone, glass, and sometimes baked clay, were substituted as of equal validity. The belief in these charms very recently existed in Cornwall and Wales, if indeed it does not at the present day. The subject is very fully discussed in Brand’s _Popular Antiquities_, Vol. III. p. 286, _et seq._, and p. 369, _et seq._, _Bohn’s Edition_. These gems and beads are not uncommonly found in tumuli of the early British period.

[2534] A similar belief in its origin was prevalent in Cornwall and Wales, and whoever found it was supposed to ensure success in all his undertakings.

[2535] “The snake’s egg”—_ovum_ being understood.

[2536] “The vulgar opinion in Cornwall and most parts of Wales is that these are produced through all Cornwall by snakes joining their heads together and hissing, which forms a kind of bubble like a ring about the head of one of them, which the rest, by continual hissing, blow on till it comes off at the tail, when it immediately hardens and resembles a glass ring.”—_Gough’s Camden_, Vol II. p. 571, Ed. 1789.

[2537] The shell of a sea urchin most probably. See Note 81 above.

[2538] See Note 82 above.

[2539] A nation of Gaul. See B. iii. cc. 5, 21.

[2540] The wand held by heralds, and generally represented as being carried by Mercury in his character of messenger of the gods.

[2541] And therefore not portentous of war.

[2542] See B. v. cc. 13, 20.

[2543] See B. xii. c. 43.

[2544] See B. x. c. 28. Generally supposed to be Syrian nard; though some identify it with the _Comacum_ of Theophrastus.

[2545] See B. xxiii. cc. 45, 80.

[2546] In B. xxviii. c. 38.

[2547] See B. xxiv. c. 69.

[2548] See B. xii. c. 54.

[2549] See B. xii. c. 62.

[2550] No MS., it would appear, gives “corvis” here, the reading being “capris,” “goats.” Ajasson, however, is most probably right in his suggestion that “corvis” is the correct reading.

[2551] See B. x. c. 15.

[2552] In B. x. c. 26.

[2553] Or Youth, in the Eighth Region of the City.

[2554] See B. ii. c. 53.

[2555] An ancient divinity, who is supposed to have presided over childbirth. See Plutarch, Quæst. Rom. 52.

[2556] In the _Saturio_ probably, quoted by Festus, and now lost. The aborigines of Canada, and the people of China and Tartary, hold whelps’ flesh in esteem as a great delicacy.

[2557] “Toxica.”

[2558] Of remedies classified according to the different maladies.

[2559] In B. xi. c. 76.

[2560] The ferret, most probably.

[2561] See c. 33 of this Book.

[2562] The common weasel.

[2563] Probably in his work entitled “Admiranda,” now lost. Holland says “some take these for our cats.”

[2564] Guettard, a French commentator on Pliny, recommends bugs to be taken internally for hysteria!

[2565] Perhaps the Cimex pratensis is meant here. Neither this nor the Cimex juniperinus, the Cimex brassicæ, or the Lygæus hyoscami has the offensive smell of the house bug.

[2566] An excellent method, Ajasson remarks, of adding to the tortures of the patient.

[2567] This is the fact.

[2568] See B. viii. c. 33.

[2569] The Magi of the East, probably.

[2570] Some serpent of the boa species, probably. See B. viii. cc. 13, 14, 22, 41, and B. x. cc. 5, 92, 95, 96.

[2571] By leading them to confound truth with fiction.

[2572] See B. viii. c. 35.

[2573] This is _perhaps_ the meaning of “præcanere.” Sillig suggests “recanere.”

[2574] Which was said to act as an antidote to the poison, applied to the wound.

[2575] “Antidotes to serpents’ poison.”

[2576] “Pastilli.”

[2577] The god of Medicine.

[2578] A favourite reverie with the learned of the East. Dupont de Nemours, Ajasson informs us, has left several Essays on this subject.

[2579] In Peloponnesus, the principal seat of his worship. A very full account of his introduction, under the form of a huge serpent, into the city of Rome, is given by Ovid, Met. B. xv. l. 544, _et seq._ This took place B.C. 293.

[2580] Among the snakes that are tamed, Ajasson enumerates the Coluber flagelliformis of Dandin, or American coach-whip snake; the Coluber constructor of Linnæus, or Black snake; and the Coluber viridiflavus of Lacepede. The Æsculapian serpent is still found in Italy.

[2581] Or “chersydri,” “amphibious.”

[2582] Or “starred lizard”—“stellio.” In reality it is not poisonous.

[2583] See B. x. c. 86. Some kind of starred lizard, or an eft or newt perhaps, was thus called: but in most respects it appears to be entirely a fabulous animal.

[2584] See B ii. c. 63.

[2585] He probably alludes to the Magi of Persia here, as most of the stories about the salamander appear to bear the aspect of an Eastern origin.

[2586] See B. xxii. c. 33.

[2587] “Cybium.” See B. ix. c. 18. Dioscorides says the plant _cnecos_, described by Pliny in B. xxi. c. 107.

[2588] See B. xxv. c. 18, and B. xxvii. c. 77.

[2589] See B. xvi. c. 92, and B. xxvi. cc. 37, 66.

[2590] “Hereupon peradventure it is that in collices and cockbroths we use to seeth pieces of gold, with an opinion to make them thereby more restorative.”—_Holland_.

[2591] See B. xxv. c. 97.

[2592] The same is said of a frog’s tongue, in B. xxxii. c. 18.

[2593] That is no reason, as Ajasson remarks, why the egg should not be found, it being easy to take it from the nest at night, when, the bird being absent, no ill omen will arise from seeing it.

[2594] We still see bats nailed upon and over stable doors in various parts of this country.

[2595] “Carduus.”

[2596] A sort of spider. See B. xi. cc. 24, 28, 29.

[2597] In c. 16 of this Book.

[2598] “Lupus.” See B. xi. c. 28.

[2599] The Tarantula has been suggested, but that is a native of Italy.

[2600] “Atocium.”

[2601] “Plena liberis.”

[2602] From ῥάξ, a “grape.”

[2603] Or “starred” spider. Nicander describes all these varieties of the Phalangium.

[2604] From μυρμὴξ, “an ant.”

[2605] The “four-jawed” spider.

[2606] In c. 16 of this Book.

[2607] See B. viii. c. 83.

[2608] See B. xix. c. 22. For further particulars as to the Stellio, see B. xi. c. 31, and the Note.

[2609] This is probably an error; see the Note to B. xi. c. 31.

[2610] See B. x. cc. 18, 41, 44, and 50.

[2611] See B. viii. c. 43. Ajasson remarks that this is a mere fabulous story, in reference to the venom of the ants.

[2612] In B. xxix. c. 23.

[2613] See B. xxvi. c. 2.

[2614] See B. xxiii. c. 14.

[2615] It has been ascertained by experiment that the vesicatory principle resides in the wings more particularly. Ajasson remarks, that it is possible that the ancients may not have known the genuine Cantharides, the Canth. vesicatoria of modern medicine.

[2616] See B. xxiv. c. 74.

[2617] “Pityocampæ.” See B. xxiii. cc. 30, 40, and B. xxviii. c. 33.

[2618] See B. xxviii. cc. 21, 33, 42, and B. xxx. c. 10.

[2619] At the sale, under his supervision, of the property of Ptolemy, king of Cyprus.

[2620] In B. xxi. c. 34.

[2621] This is still the vulgar notion; but in reality there is no worm, but certain white pustules beneath the tongue, which break spontaneously at the end of twelve days after birth. Puppies are still “wormed,” as it is called, as a preventive of hydrophobia, it is said, and of a propensity to gnaw objects which come in their way. The “worming” consists in the breaking of these pustules.

[2622] “Rage” or “madness.”