Varieties: or, A surveigh of rare and excellent matters necessary and delectable for all sorts of persons. Wherein the principall heads of diverse sciences are illustrated, rare secrets of naturall things unfoulded, &c. Digested into five bookes, whose severall chapters with their contents are to be seene in the table after the epistle dedicatory. By David Person, of Loghlands in Scotland, Gentleman.

OF METEORS, THE SECOND BOOKE.

CHAPTER 1.

The definition of Meteors, their Matter, substance, place, and cause.

I Define Meteors to bee things,* 1.1 above our sight, in the ayre, as the Etymology of the word importeth. I divide them into dry and moist, according to the diversity▪ of the matter whereof they are framed, which are dry and moist vapours and exhalations ex∣tracted from the earth and waters; and from thence elevated to the regions of the ayre, where they are fa∣shioned; and that diversely, according either to the

degree of the Region they are framed in, or the mat∣ter whereof they are fashioned.

The Philosophers and meere naturalists have not alike consideration of them; for Philosophers have regard to them both as they have their dependance from above, specifying time, place, and all other their circumstances: whereas the meere naturalists doe par∣ticularize none of them, but generally shew how they flow from the earth: the knowledge of stars, and of the regions of the ayre, better fitting the Philosopher then the other.

For so it is,* 1.2 that, the vapors, and exhalations which the Sun extracteth out of the Seas and earth, sending them up to the regions of the ayre, are the true and originall materiall cause of these Meteors.

Not of all uniformely, but severally of each one, according to the height, whereto they are elevated from the said waters and earth; and the nature of the vapour elevated:* 1.3 which I may not unfitly com∣pare to the naturall body of man, whose stomacke is the centre of his fabrick, which sendeth up to the head, the moyst or flatulent humors, wherewith for the time it is affected; and receiveth backe againe ei∣ther heated and consuming distillations, or refrigera∣ted and quenching humors, wherewith to attempe∣rate and refresh the incessant motion and heat of the other noble parts by a circular motion.

Quest. I know the curiosity of more subtile spirits will move the question,* 1.4 whether the Sun draweth ex∣halations from the lowest or first region of the ayre; seeing it is humid and hot, sometime hotter, some∣time colder, according as the reverberation of the

Sunnes heat from the earth affecteth it: although I grant, that the ayre, of its owne nature, is hot; yet that hindereth not, but accidentally, it may be heated also, yea sometimes made hotter then of its nature it is. To this question I answer.

Answ. That the subtilty and rarefaction of the ayrs humidity hindereth the Sunne from exhaling of it; for although some parts of the moist ayre be grosser than others, yet the same grosser parts are more subtile then any vapor, which the Sun extracteth from the earth or waters: for not all subtile humidity is evaporable, but that of water only, as that which may more easily be apprehended by heat.

As then,* 1.5 the lowest and first region of the ayre a∣bout us, wherin we breath here, is hot and moist, both by nature and accident; as I was saying, by the re∣verberation of the sunne-beames, upon solid and com∣bustible bodyes, and heated by the exhalation of fumes from places or things that are apt to be kindled, even so, the uppermost region is hot and dry, both by nature, and accident; and almost more, or rather by accident then by nature, propter viciniam ignis; al∣beit the supreme region must be hotter then the low∣er,* 1.6 both in respect of the propinquity of it, to the ele∣ment of fire, (even as the lowest region by the neigh∣bour-hood of it to the earth oftentimes is colder than hot) as also in respect of the nearenesse of it to the heavens, which as with the light of them, they warme the lower things; So, by the rapidity and ve∣locity of their circular course, they heate this first re∣gion also.

Now as these two regions are of themselves hot, and

moist,* 1.7 and hot and dry; so the middle Region is only cold, but drierwhere it is contiguous with the up∣permost, and more moist whereit is ••igher the lowest. This great coldnesse of it, enforced together, by an Antiperistasis (as we say) or opposite contrarieties of heate above, and cold below.

The Ayre then being divided into these three Re∣gions, wherewith the uppermost, as comprehended within the concavity of the fiery Element, is ever hot and dry, the lowest hot and moist, but of a weake and debill heat, which by a breathing cold may be chan∣ged; the middle Region is alwayes cold.

CHAP. 2.

Where Meteors are composed. Of Clouds, where they are fashioned, together with the solution of some questions concerning the middle Region.

NOW remaines to know in which of these Regions any of these Meteors are framed:* 1.8 and first, whether or not Clouds be generated in the middle Region of the Ayre? It is most likely, that not there, but in the lower; because in it diverse other Meteors alike in matter and forme are framed.

To which, not so much cold is requisit, as to the other two; yet the nature of Clouds being considered, we shall finde them to be generated in the middle Re∣gion onely.

For, seeing Clouds are nothing else but vapours mounted, and thickned by condensed cold; then sure

they cannot bee framed in the uppermost Region of the Ayre,* 1.9 because in it the Sunnes rayes are directed, lacking reflex, beside the circular and Spherick moti∣on it hath, by vertue of the proximity of the Elemen∣tary fire, which warmeth it againe: this thickning or condensing cold cannot be in the lower region, by rea∣son of the heate of it through the reverberation of the Suns rayes, beating upon the solid bodies of the earth, and waters: so there resteth the middle Region, in w^ch the reflex faileth, & the vertue from above too of the direct Sunnes rayes; so that naturally it being cold, in it only these vapours must be condensed to a cloud.* 1.10

And whereas I was saying before that it should seeme that the Clouds are begotten in the lowest Re∣gion; in respect that in it, Waters, as Dew and Foun∣taines, at least their matter and forme are brought forth, that alwayes cannot hold; because that Foun∣taines, and Rivers, are rather bred in the concavities, and hollow places of the earth, than of it, or rather flow and have their source from the Seas.

Neither must my words be mistaken, when I say that the middle Region is naturally cold, seeing be∣fore I have set downe the Ayre, naturally to be hot and moist; for when I say that it is cold, it must bee understood, but respectively, in regard of the other two, as wanting the reflective heate of the lower Re∣gion, and the circulative heat by the ignean or fiery warmenesse of the other.

Now if it be objected that seeing the middle Re∣gion of the Ayre is cold,* 1.11 and all cold things are hea∣vie, and so consequently tend downeward; what can be the reason that this middle Region falleth not

thorow the lowest to its own centre of weight,* 1.12 which is the earth? It availeth not; for first, not all frigidi∣ty draweth or tendeth alwayes from its circumfe∣rences, to the centre, but that only which is absolute∣ly and simply cold; as that of the Earth and Waters, and not that of the Ayre, which (as I say before) is but respectively cold; yea, albeit that the middle Re∣gion divide not the lowest in whole, yet in parts it doth; as in raine, when it falleth from the middle one upon the dissolution of a cloud.

Finally it may be said here, that clouds not onely may bee seene beneath us to inviron the tops of our lower Mountaines; for I my selfe crossing the lower Alpes, at Genoa, have seene them below me along the sides of the Mountaines; they likewise may be per∣ceived to glide over the Plaines, and swimming over our Lakes and Rivers: yet that serveth not to prove, that they are generated in the lowest Region;* 1.13 but ra∣ther argueth the ascending of these vapours, and the gathering of them together; of which the clouds must bee coagulated and no otherwise, as that they are absolutely there framed. But this by the way.

CHAP 3.

Of falling Starres, Fleakes in the Ayre, and other such fiery Meteors.

THere be foure Elements as all know; the Fire hot and dry, the Ayre hot and moist, the Earth dry and cold, the Waters cold and moist. Now as of the moisture of the Waters, whether in their owne Ele∣ment, or on the Earths superfice, are composed all watery vapours, as clouds, raine, dew, haile, snow, and hoare-frosts, &c. Even so, from the dry parts of the Earth, calefied, or made hot by the Sun-beames doe proceed fumy exhalations, whereof the fiery and burning Meteors are generated.

But so it is,* 1.14 that of these vaporous exhalations, whereof all the ignite and fiery Meteors or impressi∣ons are composed, all are not framed alike; for ac∣cording to the diversity of the dispositions of their matter they are either round or long, or more long than round, or more round than long; for if by the efficient and materiall causes, which are the Sunne-beames exhaling these fumous evaporations from the driest part of the Earth, these spumeous exhalations are such as are combustible and capable to bee kind∣led (if it be of a like length and breadth:) then in that case, it shall be seene to burne in the uppermost Regi∣on of the Ayre like a blazing fire of straw: if it bee longer than broad, then is it taken for those long fal∣ling Stars, which by the Meteorologians are called

Dall. If otherwayes broader than long, then are they called fiery inflammations, which seeme to reele in the Ayre, as it were, and to shoot hither and thi∣ther. And because sometimes these exhalations (al∣though dry) have some coldnesse in them; therefore the ejaculation of that cold matter, maketh the Me∣teor to seeme by that extrusion to fall;* 1.15 as being in la∣bour to expell it; whence more properly are our fal∣ling Stars, which Stars at some times seeme to fall a∣side, at other times strait downe, or upward, accor∣ding as their matter is for the time either disposed or placed.

And if it be objected how contrary to their nature can they descend or fall downe,* 1.16 their matter being light and not ponderous? I told before, that that com∣meth by expulsion, and by way of projection; for confirmation whereof,* 1.17 may be added the experience we have of Thunder, whose bolts and claps light at times, even at our feet; otherwhiles what in our hou∣ses, beating downe Pinacles and Steeples, the tops of Turrets and the like, although it be both light and dry;* 1.18 and the reason is, That Thunder being genera∣ted in the middle Region of the Ayre, not by exusti∣on of any kindled hot matter, but rather by a separa∣tion of an expelling cold; meane while this cold thickning and coagulating it selfe together with vio∣lence, in a manner detrudeth the hot matter, which with it was thither drawn up, and maketh such a noise and terrible din, the time of that expulsion, that not only the Ayre seemeth to bee rent asunder, but the very Earth also appeareth to tremble at its vio∣lence.

Iust so, as the matter of the falling Stars is placed, they fall either straight down, aside, or upward, as be∣fore I noted. Even so is it with the Thunder.

Now, as those vapors, thickned in the ayre, doe produce the afore-said effects; so shall it not bee thought amisse, to say, that the same ayre, being thick∣ned, with their vapors, but not condensed in a cloud, by susception of light, but chiefly from the Suns rayes opposite to it either by night or day,* 1.19 but chiefly by night, become fiery coloured, and looke as burning; the same vapors stirring to, and fro, and being some∣way thickned, by refraction of light, doe assume un∣to themselves variable, and diverse colours; and those fires in effect are the same which vulgarly are called pretty dancers: and by reason that the materi∣all cause of such impressions is swift, and soone vani∣sheth, therefore they abide and remaine the shorter time; for such phantasmes not being come to the full perfection of other Meteors, (as seldome they are seene to doe) so their abode, and being is but short, and inconstant, they being composed but of hot, and dry exhalations, from chalky, rocky, sandy and sul∣phureous parts of the earth, there being a mixture of moysture with them.

And to the effect,* 1.20 that this may be somewhat better cleared, we must consider: That foure sorts of va∣pors are exhaled, or drawne up out of the earth by vertue of the Sunnes rayes, beside the smoake of our fires, which ascending to the ayre also augments these fiery Meteors.

First vapors hot and dry, not having so much hu∣midity in them, as may be able to overcome them;

but rather such, as may make this dry vapor to be con∣tinued, for no earthly thing can continue without moi∣sture.

Secondly, cold and dry, which altogether are of the earth's nature, virtually cold, albeit formally all vapors are hot.

The third are those vapours which are hot and moyst, where humidity predominateth over the heat.

The fourth kind of vapors which ascend, are cold and moyst, in which absolutely watry moystnesse beareth rule, and this vapor virtually is called cold. These foure sorts of vapors then are the neerest mat∣ter of all our meteors.

The first whereof, viz, hot and dry vapors, doe as∣cend through the ayre quickly, even to the concavity of the firy and ignean element; where being enflamed and enkindled, it becommeth the right generation and propagator of our fiery Meteors: whereas, the se∣cond, being hot, and moyst, doth not ascend so high; and because it is easily resolved,* 1.21 it commeth to bee ayre.

The other two cold and dry, and cold and moyst vapors are elevated aloft also, but no farther then to the colder parts, where they are thickned and coagu∣lated together,* 1.22 by the invironing cold; but so, as cold and moyst are converted to raine; and the other cold and dry to wind, or this falls downe with the pluvious or rainy vapour. This being so, we may see, that there are foure kindes of vapors and exhalations, confor∣mable to the foure elements which make up the mat∣ter of these Meteors; in such sort, that as there are

hot, and dry exhalations, and cold and dry, even so there are hot vapours and cold and humid ones also.

Since then,* 1.23 you know the matter of wind,* 1.24 raine, falling stars and inflammations in the ayre, let us heare what can bee objected: One demands, what is the cause that the falling stars or other descending flames or flashes make no such noyse as the thunder doth, see∣ing their matter and manner of composing is almost alike.

Answ. Because the cloud which throweth away and expelleth them, invironeth not them in her belly, as their clouds doe, in which the matter of the thunder is; for the thunder bursting thorough the cloud occa∣sioneth the clappe.

Quest. Now if it be asked,* 1.25 what meane these fiery inflammations, which at some times in the night are seene, either amongst our horse feet when we ryde, or about their maines, or sometimes like the glaunce of a candle light before, a little above or about us? The answer is, that these dry exhalations, as diverse other things, are of severall degrees; some elevated to the highest region, others to the middle region, and these, which ascend no higher then this low region where we inhabit, being composed of a more oleagenous, or oyly substance, doe inflame sooner, than these of the middle region doe, as being invironed with cold.

Or if it be asked?* 1.26 Why see we not such inflamma∣tions in the day time as in the night? No question but that then they are, and more frequent then in the night, but the greater light obfuscateth the lesser.

Or if it be asked; What meane the rents and clefts (as it were) which we see in the firmament, as if it

were opened and hollowed in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 places? That is nothing else, but the vapors and exhalations, carryed up to the ayre, which are condensed and thickned to∣gether; where, by accident, if in the midst of this con∣densation, any part be more subtile, or thinner then the extremities are; that thinnest part, appearing black, and the two extremities coloured, maketh people be∣lieve that it is an open gappe, which indeed is not.

Quest. As to that question;* 1.27 by what cause it hap∣neth, that moanings, mournfull voyces, and some∣times also laughings are heard in the ayre? I thinke the Meteorologians answer not so fully satisfactorie as theirs, who treate of spirits, whom I may well call Physiognosticks: for the Albertists, upon this place, say, that the cause is, the multitude of exhalations, extracted out of graves and other Subterranean pla∣ces, pressing upward, thorough places not proportio∣nable for them; and being of themselves, of a reso∣lutive nature, doe make noyses, not unlike to those of men; which in my conceit is ridiculous: and yet such is their glosse upon the latine Text, De die igitur sol pro∣••ibet.

Answ. But I incline rather to their opinion,* 1.28 who, speaking of the nature of spirits, say, that these Ca∣chinnations or laughings, and weeping voyces, which we heare, are rather Aereall spirits; which is handled more largely in my title of spirits, where you may find all their orders and natures.

Now because the matter of comets, is of greatest moment, amongst all the Meteors; I hasten to them.

CHAP. 4.

Of Comets, their matter, forme, nature, and what way they portend evill to come.

COmets, being of the number of Ignean and fiery Meteors; No question, they are composed of a like matter; the difference being in the quantity of that matter more or lesse, to wit, dry, clammie and hot exhalations, in their framing being condensed, and by reason of the motion of the superior bodyes, in the fiery element beginning to kindle, doe make these co∣mets; and thus they differ from the fiery Dragons, and falling sttars; for these Meteors, once kindled by way of exustion, and extrusion, or projection, are throwne downe suddenly, and so vanish; where, on the other side, the dry and hot exhalations, whereof Thunder is composed by way of detrusion, (the cloud renting asunder, in whose body it was enclosed) doe presently vanish, as lightnings (their forerunners) doe.

Now where the nature of comets must be such;* 1.29 that neither the firy kindling of them may soone consume it, by the greatnesse and violence of it; neither must their matter be so weake and thinne, that the fire may on a sudden overcome it, but such as may endure at least for a little season, both with the quality of the fire, and the disposition of the matter condensed and thickned; and yet so as the exustion or kindling of the matter and condensed exhalation, beginning at

end of it may ascend upward, til it consume the whole extent of its rayes and beames upon the matter com∣bustible, in forme of a beard,* 1.30 or long discheveld look of haire, continuing so for a time; from whence Come∣ta à Coma, hayre, hath its denomination.

Now the forme and shape of these exhalations, is not ever after a like proportion or fashion; that is, al∣wayes long and broad; so that the one end being kindled, the other remaineth but enlightned, like a beard, from whence they are called Crinitae stellae, or Barbatae Cometae, bearded Comets. For sometimes their figure wil be Spherick and round; so that the fire taking these Spherick exhalations in the middest ma∣keth the blazing beames which extend from the cen∣tre to the circumferences,* 1.31 to looke like long hayre circled about a face or head.

Neither must it be thought that this haire or invi∣roning beames are like to these which before a storme we see incompassing the Sunne,* 1.32 but more frequently the Moone, which Aristotle calleth Halae & Halones; for these Circles by us called broughes, are a world of way remote from the bodies of the Sunne and Moone, and in effect, are but in the troubled Ayre, with aboundance of exhalations and vapours, thorow which, the Sunne and Moones rayes, making way to themselves, do fashion these circles about them there. Whereas these circles or long beards of the Comets, a••e directly under, yea, sometime above the concave of the Moone; and thence to the first Region of the Ayre they are conveyed with the Comets of that same matter of exhalation, and nature; although our moderne Astronomers, now averting this Aristotelian

opinion, have found out some Comets place to bee above the Moone.

This being briefly spoken of the matter and forme of Comets,* 1.33 it may be asked what course they have? to which I answer; first, that the motion of Comets is common with that naturall course of the world; for either it is from the Orient to the Occident, or from the West to the East: at times most frequently it declineth to the South, and at other times to the North; now high, then low, now seeming neere to the Earth, then remote from it.

And if it be said, how can Comets have so many different courses,* 1.34 seeing a simple body can have no more but one motion of it selfe? To this I say, that as the Sphere of fire and the supreme Region of the Ayre, by the heavenly motions are wheeled about from the Orient to the Occident; thus the Comets exist above the first Region, and so naturally with it they should keepe the same course: in respect that conformably a thing placed, must turne with the place, in which it existeth. So if this first Region by the rapidity of the Heavens be moved; much more should Comets, they being neerer to it than the first Region.

Now albeit the Heaven, Fire, and Ayre move in a circular motion, yet they move not all alike, for by certaine degrees the course of the one is swifter than the other; so that the Ayre as neerest to the Earth, is flower than the other two. By this subdeficiency then, the Ayre, and they within it, seemes but to goe about frō Occident to Orient of its own proper mo∣tion, having regard to the swiftnesse and velocity of

the superior course. And whereas I say, that they move high and low, to and fro; that is to be under∣stood in so far that every thing perfectible striveth to attaine to its owne perfection; which consisteth in the approximation and neere attaining and touching of the generant, which chiefly beareth rule in the place, whereat they aime or tend; whether that thing en∣gendred bee a Star, or any other celestiall vertue, whereunto this subdeficient striveth to attaine.

Now the reason wherefore most commonly Co∣mets doe reach,* 1.35 either to the South, or North, is to be attributed to the speciall influence of some other Star drawing them thitherward; as the Loadstone maketh Iron turne towards it: and whereas sometimes they appeare low and neere the Earth; at other times farther remote from it: that must be appropriated ei∣ther to the inflamation of the Comets matter, either at the neerer or farther end, or else to the height, or lownesse of the Region, above which it is elevated: for none of the three Regions, but have in them their owne degrees and stations, some parts in them being higher than others are.

The place of their appearing is most frequently in the Northerne Climates;* 1.36 and that most often under Via lactea, which is that white coloured draught called the milkey way in the firmament, which may be perceived by night, reaching in a man∣ner from East to West. The time of their abode a∣gaine is but at shortest seven or eight dayes; al∣beit I reade of some that blazed halfe a yeare; but such have seldome happened: neverthelesse the short∣nesse or length of their abode, is to bee imputed

imputed to the bignesse or scantnesse of their matter.

Now rests to know,* 1.37 whether or not these Comets may portend or prognosticate bad or infortunate e∣vents of things here below, and whether over parti∣cular persons or Countries in generall? To this the Philosophers (who will have all things,* 1.38 either above or below, to be and exist by naturall reasons, and ad∣mit no prodigies or things beyond nature) make an∣swer that Comets are but meere naturall things, no way fore shewing evils to come.

Because (say they) when Iupiter fals to bee in the signe of Pisces, or in the signe of Cancer, if then the Comets appeare, it foretokeneth aboundance, and wealth, as in the dayes of Iulius Caesar, there was one seene; which neverthelesse had no evill ensuing upon it; as it may bee seene in Albertus his Com∣mentary upon Aristotles Text in the Meteors,* 1.39 latini∣zed, Ejus autem quod est.

Besides this say they, when Comets are seene, then these evils which follow them, and which they por∣tend should fall forth through all or very many parts of the Earth, seeing they are seene by all, or most: the contrary whereof is knowne.

Besides, that burning Lances or Speares which now and then also are seene in the Ayre; and other fiery impressions, which are of that same matter with these Comets, should foretell evils to happen, as well as they which are not.

But above all,* 1.40 seeing it is oftenest thought, that Comets either foretoken great winds, or raines; none of which can be, say they: not winds, because the mat∣ter whereof the winds behoveth to be, which are dry

exhalations, are converted towards the framing of the same Comets themselves.

Not raine; for no one thing can be a signe of two opposite contrarieties. Thus seeing Comets portend drouth, they cannot likewise preaugurate inundations, and overflowings;* 1.41 finally, much lesse the death of Princes and Monarchs no more than of other private men; seeing the same constellation and ascendent may be equall, and have regard to meane men as well as to them, in a like distance.

Which reasons, with diverse moe albeit at first view, they may seeme forcible; yet being better con∣sidered their insufficiency will soone appeare: for none of the naturall Philosophers but doe acknow∣ledge their Prognostications, for some one thing or other; albeit the Astrologicall Philosopher particu∣larizeth them more punctually.

And thus they say,* 1.42 that a Comet circumbeamed about with that which they call long hayre (to say so) invironing it as we see, about the Sunne, Moone and Starres; before a storme and great tempest, doth sig∣nifie and portend great debording of waters; whereas if it bee but radiant in one side, that is a sure signe of terrible and destructive drougth, and consequently of famine and scarcity; because without humidity and warmenesse corne and fruits cannot grow.

Now as high winds move and stirre the Seas with other waters; so from that commotion ariseth raine and boisterous showers; so that appeare how they will, yet they ever portend some one evill or other.

As for death of Princes and change of estates fore∣••howne by them, experience of former Ages can qua∣lifie;

and by late miserable proofe it may be under∣stood by that blazing Star, which appeared in the yeare 1618. I being at that time in Florence, where an Italian Astronomer, upon the third Bridge, drawing in his Table-bookes the height and aspect of it, was overheard by us who gazed on him, to cry although with a low voice,* 1.43 Vae Germaniae, Woe unto Germany: and who so is, but never so little acquainted with the histories of diverse Nations, shall soone perceive in them what lamentable accidents have ensued after extraordinary deluges, and overflowings of waters, and intollerable droughts; but more especially after the appearing of Comets, what dreadfull effects ac∣cording to their affections: so we require, that those Recusants would with the Philosopher, who denied that the fire was hot, but put their finger into it to try the truth of his assertion.

Neither do our Astronomicall Philosophers want their owne grounds, wherein they settle the warrant of change of estates, after the apparitions of these Co∣mets; and this for one.

That the exhalations of hot and dry vapours from the Earth,* 1.44 whereof these Comets are made, betoken a bilious and wrathfull, sudden and irefull dispositi∣on of the in-dwellers of these Countries; for the same ayre which they attract, and emit, doth someway affect them, and this ayre is filled with these exhala∣tions, resolved by the heat of the incumbing Sun; so no question but this same way it moveth their bodies and minds to feare fiery and sudden revolts, fightings, seditions, and uproares.

Comets appeared in England before their Coun∣trey

was conquered by the Normans:* 1.45 and thereafter another, when they subdued France. What more re∣markable one then that which appeared above Hieru∣salem, before its sacking and captivity? And againe, what desolation befell all Italy, almost after that pro∣digious debording of waters which fell from the Alpes without any former raine? Charles the 8^th. of France his entering thereafter, and the disasterous chances that followed thereupon can testifie: all which our and their stories can record, besides many others, as Sabellicus in the penult. booke of his last Aeneids doth intimate.

Neither yet may I be induced to beleeve, that the Starre whereof Tichobray, that famous renouned and noble Astronomer maketh mention, which is yet seen and was affirmed to be (though the Prince now bee dead) most fitly appropriated to the victorious, wise, and fortunate Gustavus King of Sueden, to have beene no other than a Comet, what ever reasons he alled∣geth to the contrary. Albeit such remarkable Starres are rather observed to appeare at the death of great men and Kings, than at their birth. Neither must we instance the example of the Starre, which was obser∣ved by the wise men of the East, at the birth of our Lord and Saviour at Nazareth; such extraordinaries should be admired, not inferred to exemplifie things.

For answer to this,* 1.46 that the death of common peo∣ple may as well happen under these Comets, as that of Princes: there is no question but that the supere∣minency of great persons and States making them the more remarkable, maketh their death also more per∣spicuously to be notified.

And as in the Title of curiosities I have showne, that not ever the most curious questions of Arts and Sciences are the most profitable; Even so in this I allow not of Hali the Iew his commentary, upon the centiloquy of Ptolomee; where, referring the death of Princes to comets he thus saith.

Quòd si apparuerit cometa Domino istius regni exeunte in Oriente, significat mortem Regis, vel principis; si autem Dominus istius regni fuerit in Occidente, significat ali∣quem de regno suo interfecturum Regem; I over-slip the interpretation of these words, least the divulging of them might more harme than profit.* 1.47 Alwayes leaving Philosophicall alterations, thus much by na∣turall experience we may resolve upon; that they ne∣ver appeare, but some bad event followeth thereon, either to the countrey over which it blazeth, or to which it aspecteth; or else to that countrey over which ruleth a starre which that comets tayle tendeth towards or followeth; though much rather to that countrey which it hath aspect unto: not by vertue of its influence, but by reason of the superabundancie of maligne, dry, and hot exhalations regorging and dis∣persing themselves over it.

CHAP 5.

Of Raine, Dew, hoare-frost and their cause.

AS hot and dry exhalations are the matter and cause of Meteors in the upper region of the aire, of which before: Even so, cold and moist vapors are

the causes of these; after this manner; vapors eleva∣ted up into the ayre, by force of the Sunnes beames; and being separated from the heat which accompani∣ed them; either, by that heat's ascending higher, and leaving the grosser vapors; or the subtillest of that heat being extinguisht by the grossenes, & aboundance of cold and moist vapors, which mounted up with it in the ayre: or else by the coldnesse of the place, the middle region of the ayre. These grosser vapors I say segregated from that heat,* 1.48 which accompanied it, and being thickned and carried about in the ayre for a time, fall back againe to the earth; but being first coagulated in a cloud,* 1.49 which dissolving, falleth down to the place from whence it ascended: so that by a cir∣cular motion first the waters resolving in vapors, the vapors thickning in a cloud, then that dissolving back againe into waters, imitateth in a manner the circular motion of the Sunne, by whose approximation as these vapors are elevated, even so by his elongation (if I may say so) they doe fall backe againe.

Now, as this is the generall cause of these moyst Meteors, so is it the particular cause of the falling of Rayne: for Raine being a watery vapor, carryed up by heat into the Ayre, and there that heat leaving it, resolveth and falleth downe againe in great or lesser showers, according to its quantity.

Dew and Hoare-frost are not so generated,* 1.50 for why? When there is not such quantity of vapors ele∣vated in the day time (through want of heat to draw them up, or through great drowth upon the earth,) they are not carried high: in hoter countreys they fall downe againe before the day be spent, and that by

them is called Serene,* 1.51 as in France particularly: So when these elevated vapors are thickned in waters, without either so much heat as may dry them up, or so much cold as to congeale them; then I say the dew appeareth.

Now the Hoar-frost happeneth otherwise;* 1.52 as, when the like exhaled vapours are congealed, before they be condensed; whereby you may see that dew falleth in temperate times and places, whereas Hoare-frosts fall in Winter and in the colder parts of the earth: and the reason may be alleadged, that, seeing vapors are hoter than water; in respect of the con∣comitating heat, whereby they are carried up; no question, but more cold is required, for the congela∣tion of vapors, then of waters: and so if in cold sea∣sons, and places, waters congeale, and harden, much more may we say of vapors congealable into Hoare-frost. Thus we have touched the materiall and effici∣ent causes of dew and Hoare-frost; so it shall not be amisse to shew that the time when the Sun ingendreth these Meteors in the ayre, by the drawing up of these vapors, from out the earth and waters, must be, when the lowest region of the ayre is, calme, serene and cleare, without wind raine, or cooling clouds; for they being mounted thither may either hinder their ascending or condensation and thickning; as also the stirring winds would hinder their condensation, or at least their congregation or gathering together.

Now that both dew and Hoare-frost are begot∣ten of vapors not carryed high in the ayre,* 1.53 by this it may be knowne; because we see little Hoare-frost or dew, in the higher mountaines, where it seemeth

likeliest, they are made and doe recide in regard of the cold there; which is so much the more probable in this, that the heat, which elevateth these vapors from low and Marshy places, carrying (as you would say) a burden heavier then their hability can comport with, leaveth them ere they can ascend any higher.

Besides that, we may say, that the second region of the ayre, being higher than these mountaines, and car∣ryed about; and in a manner drawne after the circu∣lar wheeling about of the heavens, dissolveth these vapors by its motion; and by this meanes maketh the dew and Hoare-frost, for so I expound Pruina. Not∣withstanding this, a greater motion is required, to disgregate and sunder apart heavy and many va∣pors, then few and light ones; now seeing the matter of Snow, and Raine is greater and containeth a great many more vapors then the matter of dew and Hoare-frost: Therefore it is, that in exceeding high Mountaines,* 1.54 neither raine, dew, nor Hoare-frost fall; because of the violent motion and great flux of the ayre there: for that matter is rather even wheeled a∣bout with that violent motion, whereas in the lower Mountaines againe, because of the lesser flux and mo∣tion of the ayre snow and raine falls, but not deaw nor Hoare-frosts.

To end this part in a word then, I say, That dew and Hoare-frost have a like matter common to both, viz, moyst vapours exhaled from the earth and waters, but not highly elevated in the ayre; and (except in quan∣tity) they differ not, but onely in this, that dew is fa∣shioned of moderate cold, the other is begotten by a more violent.

CHAP 6.

Of Snow: its cause, matter and nature.

THe matter of Snow,* 1.55 is a cloud, composed of an aereall substance, whereby it may bee made some way hot; and of a terrestriall and earthly matter, whereby when it is dissolved, it leaveth some muddy substance behind it; but the most speciall mat∣ter of it is of the vapors exhaled from the waters dis∣persed over the earth. Their place, is in the middle re∣gion where violent colds are; which excessive cold must not be thought their generation only, but then, when that cold is dispersed through the whole ayre; for then this cold is not so sharpe and piercing, as that cold is, which, by the dispersed heat in the ayre, is reenforced and crowded into one place. Now be∣cause such colds are not spread abroad through the whole ayre, but at certaine times, as in winter, in the end of Autumne, and in the beginning of the Spring; therefore it is that in winter in the tayle of Autumne or in the beginning of the Spring, Snow falleth (at least then) most frequently.* 1.56 And because the Nor∣therly Climats are coldest and farthest remote from the hot Zone, as there where the Sunne beames hath least reflex;

—Quod sol obliqua non nisi luce videt.

Therefore it is also, that in these places snow is most usually seene.

Now if it be said, how can it be, that the snowy

cloud must be of a hot ayrie disposition, seeing the other two ingredients are earthly and waterish vapors which naturally are cold, for by this I should include contrarieties in one subject? To which I answer; that there are no absurdities in that; for in this case, the one is as ingredient, the other as egredient, the one over-comming, the other remitting something of its dignity: for as the cold holdeth together this snowy cloud, till it dissolve into water; so, before this cloud begin to dissolve into snow, we find the ayre which before was marvailous cold, during the time of the congealing of this cloud, to wax somewhat hoter by reason of the aery heat, which leaveth the cloud and disperseth it selfe through the ayre.* 1.57 From whence likewise we may gather the reasons why the snowy cloud, before it dissolve in the ayre, is cleare, and clea∣reth the earth also: Whereas the rainy clouds doe both dimme the sky and earth, & are exceeding cold immediately before the rayne fall downe? That is, because the rainy cloud, hath nothing but grosse and heavy earth and watrish vapors in it; whereas the snowy one, hath besides them, the ayre inclosed, which being by nature warme, and then being thrust out of the cloud by the predominancie of the other two, cleareth and warmeth both.

CHAP. 7.

Of Windes, their true cause, matter and nature, &c.

IN the former part of this treatise, we have heard that there are two sorts of exhalations, whereof all Meteors above us, in the Ayre, are composed: one of them moist, called vapours; the other dry, called fumes or smoke; not that any of these are so either wholly dry or moist, or that they have no mixture of others, for that is not: but that the predominancy of the one above the other, in the compound, maketh the denomination.

Now as the heat of the Sun, extracting these two from the earth and waters is their efficient cause, so they againe are the materiall causes of the Meteors made up by them, viz. vapours, the causes of raine, haile, snow, dew, clouds and so forth. As the dry and fumous exhalations are the causes of winde in parti∣cular, as also of the hot Meteors above mentioned. Hot and dry exhalations then are matter and causes of the wind;* 1.58 and as they are elevated in the Ayre by the force of the Sunne; so no question but from that same Ayre, the winds begin to blow, and not from the Earth first; which in this may be discerned; be∣cause that the highest Mountaines (I meane, if they exceed not the first Region) Towres, Trees, Steeples, and so forth, are more agitated with winds, then the lower and baser are, as being neerer the ayre.

Feriunt summos fulmina montes. Saepius ventis agitatur ingens Pinus—

And the reason is, because straining to mount aloft conformable to their nature, they are reverberated a∣gaine by the middle region, their opposite (being cold and moist) to their hot and dry nature.

Now as the beginnings and first springs of Rivers are small, but by corrivation of other lesser ones they increase:* 1.59 Even so the first beginnings and principalls of windes are commenced but with few exhalations; no question but their increment floweth from the ad∣unition and combination of more exhalations; Whence it is, that some yeares are more windy and some seasons too, then others; and commonly the dryest Summers maketh the windiest and most tem∣pestuous winters.

It is said in Scripture, that the wind bloweth where it pleaseth, and that none knoweth, either whence it commeth or whither it goeth.* 1.60 And it is truth indeed to speake particularly, we feele it and find it, we know it evanish away into the many vast and spacious intur∣nings of the ayre; but from what particular place it floweth, we know not well: for as they are small in their principalls, so no doubt, but they receive aug∣mentations in their progresse. Here then it may be inferred, that winds and raine are not procreated of the selfe same matter, as some foolishly doe maintaine; which by this only may bee evidently confuted, that often times the windes are abated by raine; and commonly after raine we have windes:* 1.61 The first for this naturall reason, because that violence of winds blowing clouds together, and the invironing cold condensing and thickning them together, makes them dissolve into water.

The other is because of waters or raine falling from the clouds,* 1.62 by which meanes the Ayre is war∣med, and consequently the Earth; which maketh it yeeld aboundance of hot exhalations for the Sunnes rayes to transport upward to the Ayre, wherewith wind is framed againe.

And if it be objected,* 1.63 that exhalations are common causes of winds, and yet of the same winds, some are cold, as the North, and East, whereas the Southerly and Westerly are commonly hotter? To this may be answered, that the exhalations themselvs are not the occasion of that, but the disposition of the Climats from whence they flow; the Suns heat never aproach∣ing the North Climat, but afarre off, and obliquely, or side-wayes; occasioning the cold of it, and con∣sequently of the winds blowne from thence.

Whereas more perpendicularly it glanceth on the other Meridian and Westerne parts; by which means, as the Earth is warmed, so are the winds.

And if it be asked, why in the height of Summer (the Sun being in Cancer) that then are fewest and low∣est winds, as in the extremity and cold of Winter there are few likewise, as by experience may be seene:

To that may be answered,* 1.64 That as in all things ex∣tremities are vicious, even so in this matter; for great heat and drought in Iune, Iuly, and August, doe keepe back the winds and their matter, as extremity of cold doth in December and Ianuary.

The Earth in that time of Summer, being burnd up with scorching heate, hindereth the winds to rise; be∣cause the earth then is burningly dry w^thout any mix∣ture of moistnesse; out of which drougth of the earth,

without some moistnesse no fumes can be exhaled.

So the Ayre clogged with cold, thick, heavie, and lumpish clouds of raine and waters, holdeth (as it were) the winds within their Precinct; hindring them to blow then, till the Ayre be disburdened of that load, and doe give way to the winds to sport them∣selves in the spring, recompensing their long captivi∣ty with licencious unbridled blasts.

Or to know how the wind bloweth is this:* 1.65 First, the exhalations whereof it is composed, are carried from the Earth, high up to the middle Region of the Ayre, but so, that when it is there, it is encountered and repercussed, tossed and moved with cold and con∣densed Ayre; finally it is put aside, from whence a∣gaine by violence it is throwne downe by the cold predominating in that Region, so it striketh upon this lower Region of the aire, in the descent of it; not right and diametrically downe, but slentingly; which ayre againe beating the Earth, by the superiour impulsion, and the earths repelling it upward or back againe, maketh it (following the round circumference of the Ayre) to blow about, filling it with its noise.

As for the number of the winds, what Countries be subject to such or such winds, what maketh the Nor∣therly winds to blow dry, the Southerly moist; I re∣fer the first to Sea-men, whose experience is surer than our contemplation: the other are soone solved by a good Naturalist; for the Sunne shining upon the South Countries more kindlie and hotter than upon the North, maketh the winds conforme to the Ayre of the Countries, hotter there, than in the North, and moister.

CHAP. 8.

Of Earthquakes, their cause and nature.

THIS question dependeth upon the knowledge of the former; for the nature and matter of winds being well understood will cleere this the sooner. I formerly said then that cold and dry exhalations, by the force of the Sun elevated up in the Ayre, and from thence by predominating cold beaten aside, and from that through the Ayre down∣ward to the Earth back againe whirling upon the face of it,* 1.66 and round about through this lowest Region, are the matter and nature of the winds; which cold and dry exhalations, I say, are the matter of these winds, which often times so lowdly blow upon the superfice of the Earth; that not onely Ships on the Seas, Trees in the Woods are overturned by their vi∣olence; but likewise high Steeples and Towers are made to shake and tremble in such sort, that even Bels have beene blowne out of the one, the roofe of the other uncovered; our fruits and cornes beaten downe to the terror and amazement of the beholders.

Even so dry and cold exhalations,* 1.67 but these more grosse, and not so Elementary as the first, enclosed within the bowels and concavities of the Earth, (for Nature hath no vacuity) and there converted into winds, doe struggle and strive as it were, to burst up through this earth to attaine to its owne right place, which is upwards; and that is the cause of this trem∣bling

and motion of the Earth which we call Earth∣quakes.

And because the Southerne Countries are hotter than the Northerne,* 1.68 in respect of the Suns approach to them, I meane in its perpendicular beholding of them, they (I say) are consequently more apt to bee enflamed, and so to be concaved and wasted within; yea, and to be more capable of the engendring and reception of these exhalations and winds, and their effects: therefore it is, that these Countries are more subject to the motions and tremblings of the earth (whereof their particular Histories afford us testimo∣nies enough) than the more Northerly are; for they having grosser and lesse matter evaporated from them by the Sunnes heat, doe admit lesse concavities, and so fewer exhalations: so then, both winds and Earth∣quakes are of one selfesame matter and subject, viz. of cold and dry exhalations, wherof they are framed; and they differ onely in this; That the exhalations whereof the winds are, doe rise more purified, of the superfice of the earth, and as we say in Schooles, Ex Elemento superiori;* 1.69 whereas the other, more grosser are from below, Et ex Elemento inferiori, so that both in matter and motion they doe agree.

Neither is this called in question by Aristotle, hand∣ling the same matter,* 1.70 Lib. 3. Meteor. Where his Com∣mentator Albertus Coloniensis compareth this motion of the Earth by the power of these inclosed vapours in the bowels and cavernes of it, to the motions and tremblings of our pulse, by the Systole and Diastole of our spirits, in and above our hearts, and so within the cavity or hollownesse of our bodie.

And yet, not content with this comparison, he in∣sisteth in the duration and continuance of the Earths motion, saying, that even as the tremblings where∣with our bodies are agitated (during the fits of a Fea∣ver) doe continue so long as the faulty and peccant humour reigneth in our veines,* 1.71 and accordingly dimi∣nisheth its proportion, as the matter occasioning the feaver impaireth: even so it is with this trembling of the earth, having respect to the multitude of vapours and to their declining; for the more these vapours are, the Earthquake lasteth the longer, and is more vio∣lent; but when they spend and decline, its violence and continuance is remitted.

I know now the Philosopher and Naturallist (who admit nothing done in nature, to bee otherwise than by naturall meanes) will admit nothing beyond the reach of Nature when they are posed.

How is it then that commonly after Earthquakes,* 1.72 Plagues, Pestilences, and death of Bestiall doe ensue? To this they answer, That the exhalations which cau∣seth the Earths motion, having burst up through the Earth, infecteth our Ayre with the infective breath of it, which it contracteth when it was incarcerated within the bowels and wast places of the said Earth?

Likewise they ascribe some such or not farre diffe∣rent reasons in their owne degree, to the cause of evils which usually (I wil not say ever) befall after blazing Comets,* 1.73 w^ch although in effect they have their owne probabilities; yet they should not deprive our great Creator from the supernaturall working thereof, who by such unusual and terrible Syncopes of nature, would even foretell, and have mortall men, (whom

these prodigies admonish) forewarned of some ef∣fects of his wrath to ensue; to the effect, that if they will amend, and turne to their God by humiliation, and repentance, they may avert that evill threatned, and prevent his judgments.

CHAP. 9.

Of Thunder, Lightning, Haile and certaine other secrets of Nature, with their solution.

AND first concerning Thunder. Quest. What can bee the causes of the lightning, and fire∣fleakes, which in Latine are termed Fulgura, & coruscationes, either in the clouds themselves, from whence Thunder proceeds,* 1.74 or wavering in the ayre? Whether or no the exhalations, inclosed within the cloud from whence they doe proceede, be the cause, and occasion, both of the Thunder it selfe, it's sound, and of the coruscation and lightning also?

Answ. Yea; but diversly, and by it's owne course; for first by the agitation, and motion of it, within the cloud, it causeth the sound after this manner: The dry exhalation, (whereof this sound, thunder it selfe and lightnings are generated) ascending upward, in the vapour, to the middle region of the aire, is engros∣sed in a cloud, through the coldnesse of the place: so it is compacted, and this exhalation coarcted within the belly of that thickned and condensed matter: which dry, or firy exhalation, thus inclosed, (by An∣tiperistasis or contrariety) by the environing cold, in

the outward body of the cloud, striveth to get out, and make way for it selfe; at last, with much reluct∣ance,* 1.75 overcomming the environing cold, maketh that hideous and horrible noyse, wherewith here on earth wee are so terrified, that sometimes Women are strooke in such feare by it, that they part with child; So by that same agitation it kindleth too, being of a combustible substance, viz. of a dry, terrestriall, and inflamable matter; which, once kindled by Antipe∣ristasis, expelleth it selfe, with violence, through that cold thickned cloud: but first in, and about the cloud it maketh these flashes and coruscations spoken of be∣fore: so in lightnings, it disperseth it selfe, here, and there through the aire, both clearing the cloud a∣bove, and the aire beneath.

Now if it be asked;* 1.76 What is the cause, why we see sooner the lightning then we heare the thunder clap? That is because our sight is both nobler, and the eye is sooner perceptive of its object, then our eare; as being the more active part and priore to our hearing: beside the visible species are more subtile, and lesse corporeal then the audible species, this being reall, the former intentionall, as the skilfull in Opticks know: and this is the reason why likewise we see the flash, ere we heare the noyse of discharged gunnes.

Question. Againe, being asked, why fire, being naturally light, doth not rather ascend then des∣cend?

Answ. (To that as before:) Because it is extru∣ded by violence from its abode.* 1.77 Besides this, it being accoupled to a matter contrary to its owne nature, and that matter predominating, viz. A dry terrestriall

substance, in which it existeth; that I say, this terre∣striall matter, tending downe-ward, draweth the fire perforce with it: which may be perceaved by a kind∣led charcoale throwne out of ones hand, which car∣ryeth the fire along with it.

Againe, if it be expostulated, what can be the cause of the admirable effects of this thunder? at some times bruising the blade of a sword,* 1.78 the sheath un-of∣fended; melting mony and gold in a pocket, the pocket remaining entire; and killing a Man and not harming his cloathes; And what maketh things touched by it smell of sulphure and brimstone? And to kill a man in such sort, that the bolts shall bruise all his bones, the flesh never a whit hurt, nor by appearance touch∣ed; and the like.

Thus much for answer. The thunder which is ex∣pelled or extruded from blacke clouds, is more vio∣lent and hath greater force,* 1.79 than that which is ejacula∣ted from the whiter clouds. This thunder then by nature subtile, and pearcing, but much more purified in it's distent, when it mixeth with the aire, is far more subtilized: And againe being by the fire, and heate of the thunder repurged of all grossenesse, it is made so purely spirituall, that is pearceth suddenly, and insen∣sible as it were, almost all porous bodyes, and never exerciseth it's force till it finde resistance: And hereby it appeareth plainely how the skin is, as it were, untou∣ched when the bone is broken, which may serve for all accidents in this kinde.

But when it onely toucheth the outward of things without any great hurt, it betokens the weaknes, and

imbecillity of the matter.* 1.80 And where commonly bodyes, so thunder beaten, doe smell of sulphure and brimstone, the matter of Thunder giveth the reason, for it is composed of dry, and sulphureous exhalati∣ons, as of the smoake of Sulphur-terrae by Naples; of hot smoke in bathes, and rocks there; of Monte de Sommi; of Aetna in Sicilie: of the burning hills at Mex∣ico in America: of our Hecla in Island, and such like chalkie, lymie and sulphureous places; so vapors ele∣vated out of these and the like places, must make thunder which is composed of them, to savour of them.

Now to those, who aske which is the place where thunder is procreated,* 1.81 and begotten: answere may be made, from the grosse humidity, having in it some ter∣restriall glutinous, and viscous humor not easily se∣parated from it that it existeth in; which being thick∣ned in a cloud in the highest part of the middle re∣gion whither they are elevated, above all other clouds, composed of other moist vapours; from thence (I say) by the invironing cold, by Antiperista∣sis, or a stronger opposite part, they are extended and throwne downe.

Qu. Again, if any demand why blacke clouds are conjectured most to containe, and send forth thunder bolts most fearefull?

I answer, indeed as blacke clouds, flashes, and light∣nings,* 1.82 are little to be regarded, in respect that the blac∣nesse of them argueth but little firy matter to bee within; But contrarywayes that it aboundeth in wa∣terish vapours; So commonly after thunder great

raines, ensue; the cloud being dissolved, and the fire expelled. But indeed, if the lightning bee not much to be feared of such a blacke cloud, yet the thunder bolt of it is terrible, as being violently expelled by the predominating cold, even as the great charge of a Cannon enforceth the bullets flight, and causeth the roaring noyse of it.

Of reddish, or whitish coloured clouds, the bolt is but weake in regard of the rarity, and paucity of cold vapours to expell it; but the flashes and light∣ning will be found dreadfull, in respect of the abun∣dance of exhalations, wherewith, after their owne co∣lour, the cloud is dyed.

But leaving these fiery and hot Meteors, we betake us againe unto the moyst and watery ones, as more consonant and frequent to our climate.

First, if it bee asked whether our moyst Meteors, such as snow, haile, and raine, have one common mat∣ter, whereof they are generated; and if they have one, what can be the cause of their different shapes and formes;* 1.83 for we see the snow broad and soft, con∣trarieways haile, round and hard. No question but one matter is common to all, viz. Waters; from which, by vapours they are elevated to the aire; and in which they are dissolved againe: but the difference standeth here.* 1.84 That the neerest matter (to say so) of snow, is vapours congealed in a cloud, which hath in it a great mixture of aire; by which meanes, being some way heated, when the snow dissolveth, you see it holdeth, open and soft, by reason of that aire, where∣as haile hath no airy substance in it, and thus qualifi∣ed by experience, that we see haile fall downe on a

suddaine, and ofttimes with violence, because of the terrestriall heavinesse of it, whereas snow falleth but leasurely.

The reason why haile is round may be this,* 1.85 because falling down from the middle region where it is con∣gealed, by the way it reencountereth with some circu∣lar and round drop of raine or water, which accor∣dingly by the rolling about of the haile it selfe, be∣commeth hard likewise; more especially, as not ha∣ving any hot place, but the cold aire to fall through, till it light on our lowest region; which accidentally hot, for the time, you see, maketh them immediately after their lighting upon the earth, to dissolve quick∣ly, or at least not long after. And as these two are formed in the highest of the middle regions, and for the extreame cold which is there are congealed:* 1.86 so on the other side because the clouds from whence raine issueth, doe not ascend so high, therefore they dis∣solve in drops before they can be congealed. And so by degrees, dew and Hoar-frost, because they are not mounted so high as the matter and clouds of raine; Therefore they fall sooner, and softlyer then raine doth; so one matter is common mother unto all of them, but the degrees of their elevation in the aire maketh their differences: the haile higher then the Snow, the Snow then the Raine, the Raine then the Hoar-frost, mildew, or dew is.

CHAP 10.

Of Rivers, Fountaines and Springs, their sources and causes.

THere ariseth a question here not unworthy of our consideration. Whether the Springs and Rivers, in and on the earth have their origi∣nall from the waters of the Sea, by subterranean con∣duits, or from the waters on the superfice of the earth which is caused by raine; or finally from the huge and unmeasurable caverns, and hollow places of the earth,* 1.87 in whose bowells are monstrous lakes, pooles, and other standing waters, created of the ayre, there∣in enclosed, which not having any vent to ascend up∣ward, but being condensed there, dissolveth it selfe in∣to these waters. Now before we enter into the soluti∣on of this question, we must understand, that when I speake of the vast and endlesse caves, like valleys within the bowels of the earth, wherein waters are, that it is no invention of mine own: for Seneca, & with him Aristotle in his Meteorologicks in the 19 booke of his naturall questions instanceth it, saying, Quid miraris (saith he) si distructos terra non sentiat, cum ad∣jectos mare non sentit? And againe, Quemad modum supra nos imbres, it a infra nos fluvios aer facit, supra au∣tem nos diu segnis aer stare non potest, qui aut sole atte∣••uatur, aut vento exp••nditur; sub terra autem, quod a∣erem in aquam vertit idem semper est, scilicet umbra

aeterna, frigus perenne & in excitato densitas quae, semper materiam fontibus fluminibus{que} praebebunt, and so forth: all w^ch hee confirmeth in that same place by authority of Theophrast, whom hee bringeth in saying, That since the Earth hath swallowed Townes, Cities, and houses, who can doubt but that there are within her bowels, Brookes, Caves, Dens, and Valleyes? which seeing they cannot be empty, must of necessity bee full of waters. Seeing then all things are composed of all the Elements, as of their common causes; (For water is a thickned ayre; and the Ayre againe a ra∣rified water:) How then can these subterranean hol∣low places, but be full of waters, since the Earth doth dissolve in waters,* 1.88 to fil them up? For the earth being delved or digged but a very few footsteps downe, wa∣ter doth straight appeare, earth and water being of as great affinity as ayre and waters are: howbeit Zeno and others doe contradict this opinion, saying; That the Earth is a massie,* 1.89 solid, and homogenean body. I say, that absolutely the Sea (as a common Mother to all waters) is she, from whence all Rivers, and Springs have their source, but yet not so wholly, but that they may be augmented by raine and water, as wee see by experience; that after huge raines, both Foun∣taines and rivers doe accreasse. And if it bee asked, how water being of its owne nature heavie, can leave its owne element and centre, and bee conveighed to the tops of Mountaines and high places, as may bee daily seene almost every where?

To this first,* 1.90 I say, that the Sea being some way high∣er than the Earth, most easily, by its owne conduits, and channels, it may make passage unto it selfe, as through so many veines.

Besides this, the vapours which the Suns heat, and the power of some other Planets, raiseth from the waters even under the earth, are not ever exhaled and carried aloft to the Ayre, but sometimes are even re∣tained for a long time in solid places of the inner∣most parts of the earth; where gathering them∣selves into the concavities thereof, they boile upward by the force of the said agitation, as a pot upon the fire, by the force of an under heare: so these waters bubling up through the earth cause our fountaines; which running downeward againe, to the Valleys and Plaines, doe make our Brookes, Rivers, and Springs. And of this opinion is venerable Albertus Coloniensis, commenting Aristotle upon this question, Dubio nono & decimo. Or it may be said, that the ca∣verns and concavities of the earth, being filled up with waters, which distill from the want of the caved earth above, are procured by the grosse Ayre there inclo∣sed and converted into waters, which issuing out of the rarer or voider parts of the Earth, above, do oc∣casion these Springs, Rivers, and Brookes.

If it be demanded if steepe Mountaines do not re∣tribute and send downe waters to feed our Springs and Rivers;* 1.91 there is no question, for in their concavi∣ties, of certaine, there are treasures of waters, which bursting out at their lower parts, doe yeeld plenty enough, to bedew the lower Countries; not that these waters are gathered there by raines which fall (for raine-waters penetrate not so deepe into the earth) but rather that the Mountaines themselves, be∣ing spongeous, doe attract and draw together, their whole dissolved waterish matter, to the frontiers and

concavities; from whence surging and breaking∣forth through orifices, they grow into springs, brooks and sometimes rivers.

Quest. What causeth some Fountaines to last lon∣ger than others? certainly, that must proceed from the copiousnesse and aboundance of the veine and and waters, such long-lasting ones have, above the others.

Or finally, if it be demanded what can be the cause that some Rivers, and Springs, which formerly did flow in large swift currents, do lessen, and sometimes totally dry up? That must not be imputed to the sci∣tuation or change of the Starres,* 1.92 as some suppose; by which (say they) all places in the world are altered; but rather unto the decay of the veine: peradventure, because the earth preasing to fill up voidnesse, hath sunke down in that place, and so choaked the passage, and turned, the course another way.

Neither can there be a fitter reply given unto those who aske;* 1.93 what maketh two Springs or Fountaines which are separated onely by a little parcell of ground, to bee of a contrary nature? yea, one sweet and fresh, the other brackish and salt; one extreame cold, another neere adjoyning to it, to bee luke∣warme.

Then the diversity of Oares or Metals, through which these waters doe runne, which is the cause of their different tasts and temperatures; as on one par∣cell of ground some flowers and herbs salutiferous and healthfull; others venemous, and mortall may grow.

The Moone is often said to bee the efficient cause

of the ebbing and flowing of the Sea; now if so be (as universally all the Learned hold) what is the cause, seeing shee is universally seene by all Seas in a man∣ner, (and I may say equally) that therefore all Seas flow not and ebbe not alike?

To this I thinke no better reply can be given, than that some Seas there are which be rather Lakes, in a manner, and of fresher water than Seas, in respect of the incessant running of endlesse Rivers into them, whereof they make no account againe (to say so) by subministring matter to Rivers, Fountaines, Brookes, or Lakes, as the Ocean doth: the invironing bankes, and shoares being higher almost than they: such are all Sounds, Gulphs, and (it may be) the Mediterrane∣an Sea also. Or yet we may say, that the profundi∣ty and deepenesse of some Coasts hindereth the flow∣ing more then it doth upon shallow and ebbe sands and other valley and low bankes.

Now the cause of our hot Baths neere Bristoll,* 1.94 in Flanders, Germany, France, Italy, and else where, is onely the sulphureous and a brimstony Oare, or Me∣tall through which their waters runne; as the salt earth through which some waters doe runne, is the cause of their saltnesse, such as the Salt-pits in Poland, and Hungarie, out of which Salt is digged, as our Pit∣coales, and stones are digged out of Quarries. And no question but these waters are heated too by run∣ning through such earth.

These, and the like, are the reasons given by Philo∣sophers, for such secrets of Nature, as either here be∣fore I have touched, or may handle hereafter: and howbeit, by humane reason men cannot further pry

into these and the like, yet no question but the power of the great Maker,* 1.95 hath secrets inclosed within the bowels of Nature, beyond all search of man: To learne us all to bend the eyes of our bodies, and minds upward to the Heavens from whence they flow, to rest there in a reverent admiration of his power, work∣ing in, by and above nature; and that by a way not as yet wholly manifested unto mortall men.

By all which, and many more we may easily espie as the power, so the wisdome of this our Maker, in disposing the forme of this Vniverse, whether the great World, or the little one, MAN; in both which there is such a harmony, sympathy, and agreement, betwixt the powers above, which wee see with our eyes, as the Heavens, and the distinguished Regions of the Ayre in the greater World, with the Earth and Seas; or of the soule, minde, life, and intellect of Man; the heaven in him comparatively, with his bo∣dy, the Earth, and such like, of the one with the other; that is the great and little world together, as is a wonder.* 1.96 For as in the Ayre, how the lower parts are affected, so are the superiour; and contrarywise, as the superior is disposed, right so the inferiour. So we see that not onely a heaven of Brasse, maketh the Earth of Iron, but likewise waterish and moist earth, causeth foggy and rainy ayre: as a serene or tempestuous day maketh us commonly either ioyfull or melancholy: or as a sad and grieved minde causeth a heavie and dull body: but contrariwayes, a healthfull and well tempered body,* 1.97 commonly effecteth a generous and jovially disposed minde.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Definition of Meteors: their matter, sub∣stance and height of for∣mation.
• * 1.2

  Meteors seve∣rally conside∣red by Philoso∣phers and na∣••uralists.
• * 1.3

  A comparison of these Vapors ••nto the body of man, chiefly to the ven••••icle and head,
• * 1.4

  Whether there be any exhala∣••ions from the lowest Region of the ayre?
• * 1.5

  The lowest re∣gion of the aire is hot and moist, both by nature and ac∣cident.
• * 1.6

  The upper∣most region hot and dry.
• * 1.7

  The middle region is only cold, at least re∣spectively.
• * 1.8

  In what region of the Ayre the Meteors are composed.
• * 1.9

  What clouds are.
• * 1.10

  Clouds are fa∣shioned in the middle region.
• * 1.11

  Concerning the middle ••••∣gion.
• * 1.12

  Solution.
• * 1.13

  The foggy va∣pours which we see like clouds skim∣ming our lakes are but ascen∣ding to frame the cloud.
• * 1.14

  The matter and forme of fiery Meteors from whence they proceed.
• * 1.15

  What are our falling-stars.
• * 1.16

  What maketh them fal dovvn seeing they are light?
• * 1.17

  Solution.
• * 1.18

  Of thun••er, the matter whereof, and place where.
• * 1.19

  The matter & forme of th••se which we call pretty Dancers
• * 1.20

  Fower sorts of vapors ascend from the earth and waters which ar•• the neerest m••tter of all Meteors▪
• * 1.21

  Ayre what.
• * 1.22

  Raine what. wind.
• * 1.23

  Quest.
• * 1.24

  What is the cause, that the falling Stars make no noyse as the Thun∣der seeing one matter is com∣mon to both.
• * 1.25

  What meaneth these fi••es wee see by night before us or by us when we ride at some times.
• * 1.26

  Why are they not seene in the day time▪
• * 1.27

  What be these complainings and laugh∣ing which sometimes are heard in the ayre?
• * 1.28

  They are Ae∣reall spirits.
• * 1.29

  The nature & forme of co∣mets.
• * 1.30

  The reason of their long hayre or beard.
• * 1.31

  Sometimes they are round.
• * 1.32

  Halos. 1. area▪ What are the Circles about the Moone, which we call broughes?
• * 1.33

  What course the Comets observe.
• * 1.34

  Answer for the diverse courses of Comets.
• * 1.35

  What maketh the Comets commonly move from the South to the North.
• * 1.36

  The place of their abode commonly.
• * 1.37

  Whether or not they can portend evill to come.
• * 1.38

  The Philoso∣phers deny it, admitting them but as naturall things.
• * 1.39

  The Philoso∣phicall reason why not.
• * 1.40

  Other of their reasons why they can por∣tend no evill to come.
• * 1.41

  Other reasons of theirs.
• * 1.42

  The contrary is seene by ex∣perience.
• * 1.43

  Lamentable accidents which have followed after the appearing of Comets.
• * 1.44

  The reasons which our Astronomicall Philosophers give, that Co∣mets may por∣tend change of States.
• * 1.45

  Examples of Comets appea∣ring before de∣sol••tion.
• * 1.46

  Answer to the former obje∣ctions.
• * 1.47

  Conclusion of comets with a particular ob∣servation.
• * 1.48

  The first mat∣ter of raine
• * 1.49

  The way how raine falleth downe.
• * 1.50

  The matter & manner how dew is engen∣dred.
• * 1.51

  What is that which in France we call Serene.
• * 1.52

  The matter & manner how Hoare-frost, are fashioned.
• * 1.53

  The place where dew and hoare-frost are framed.
• * 1.54

  Some more good observa∣tions of dew and Hoar-frost
• * 1.55

  What Snow is?
• * 1.56

  Much Snow in the Northerne climats, and Why?
• * 1.57

  Difference be∣twixt the Snowy cloud and the rainy one.
• * 1.58

  The matter and cause of winde.
• * 1.59

  The beginning of wind is but small, but it en∣creaseth in blowing.
• * 1.60

  A place of Scripture con∣cerning winds solved.
• * 1.61

  What maketh raine com∣monly follow winde.
• * 1.62

  And what af∣ter raine.
• * 1.63

  What maketh some windes cold, other hot seeing one matter is com∣mon to both.
• * 1.64

  What maketh that in the heat of Sum∣mer there are fewest winds, seeing then there should be most.
• * 1.65

  The way how the wind bloweth.
• * 1.66

  Againe, the way how the wind bloweth.
• * 1.67

  The matter and forme of Earthquakes.
• * 1.68

  What makes the Southerne countries most subject to these earthquakes.
• * 1.69

  The od•• be∣tweene wind & earthquakes▪
• * 1.70

  A very fit comparison.
• * 1.71

  As our bodies are stirred with a hot ague, even so the earth with an inclosed wind.
• * 1.72

  A remarkable question.
• * 1.73

  Solutions both Philosophicall and Theologi∣call.
• * 1.74

  What is the matter of lightnings.
• * 1.75

  The right cause of the noyse of thun∣der after the lightning.
• * 1.76

  Why we see the lightning before wee heare the noyse.
• * 1.77

  And why do•••• it descend se∣ing it is light.
• * 1.78

  The cause of the admirable effects of thun∣der.
• * 1.79

  Why the thun∣der of blacke clouds are more terrible, then those of White.
• * 1.80

  Why those that be thunder beaten smell of brimstone.
• * 1.81

  The true mat∣ter of thunder.
• * 1.82

  The reason why the thun∣der of black clouds are most dangerous.
• * 1.83

  All weake Me∣teors have one common mat∣ter▪
• * 1.84

  Their diffe∣rence in forme, and place.
• * 1.85

  Why haile is round.
• * 1.86

  Why raine fal∣leth in drops.
• * 1.87

  From whence fountains have their courses.
• * 1.88

  That there is waters within the earth.
• * 1.89

  The Sea the mother of fountaines.
• * 1.90

  How Foun∣taines are on the tops of mountaines.
• * 1.91

  How moun∣taine; furni∣sheth water unto fountains.
• * 1.92

  Why some springs cease running.
• * 1.93

  What maketh two fountaines a little distant, one hot and another cold.
• * 1.94

  The veines through which the wa∣ters run ma∣keth them salt, hot, or cold.
• * 1.95

  Gods power outreacheth mans wisdome▪
• * 1.96

  The compari∣son of the great & little world.
• * 1.97

  A worthy simi∣litude.