The workes of Lucius Annæus Seneca, both morrall and naturall Containing, 1. His bookes of benefites. 2. His epistles. 3. His booke of prouidence. 4. Three bookes of anger. 5. Two bookes of clemencie. 6. His booke of a blessed life. 7. His booke of the tranquilitie of the minde. 8. His booke of the constancie of a wiseman. 9. His booke of the shortnesse of life. 10. Two bookes of consolation to Martia. 11. Three bookes of consolation to Heluia. 12. His booke of consolation to Polibius. 13. His seuen bookes of naturall questions. Translated by Tho. Lodge, D. in Physicke.

OF NATVRALL QVESTIONS, WRITTEN BY LVCIVS ANNAEVS SENECA; DEDICATED TO LVCILLIVS The seuenth Booke. Wherein He intreateth of Comets. (Book 7)

CHAP. I.

THere is no man so slow, dul, and brutish, that li••teth not his thoughts to behold diuine things,* 1.1 and fix∣eth not his whole minde vpon them, especially when as some new miracle appeareth in the hea∣uens. For as long as nothing appeareth but that which is ordinarie, custom taketh away the great∣nesse of things. For wee are so composed, that those things which we daily meete withall, passe by, although they be worthy of admiration: con∣trariwise, we take a singular pleasure to beholde the smallest trifles, if they haue any noueltie in them. This assembly therefore of starres, whereby the beauty of this immea∣surable body is distinguished, inuiteth not the people to beholde them; but when as any thing is changed in some extraordinary manner, all mens eyes are fixed on heauen: no man gaseth at the Sunne except it be in the eclipse: no man obserueth the Moone except she be darkened. Then whole Cities crie out, and euery one being transported thorow vaine superstition, feareth in his owne be∣halfe. But how farre greater things are those, that the Sunne (if I may so speak it) hath as many degrees as it hath dayes, and firmeth the yeare by his course? that from the solstice he presently inclineth and giueth space vnto the nights, that he hideth the stars, that he burneth not the earth being farre more greater then the same, but nourisheth it by temperating his heate, by intentions and re∣missions,

that he neuer filleth or obscureth the Moone but when she is opposite vnto him; yet respect we not these things as long as they continue in their or∣der. If any thing be troubled or appeare contrary to custome, we behold it, we inquire of it, we shew it: so naturall a thing is it to admire at the newnesse, and not at the greatnesse of things.* 1.2 The same falleth out in Comets: if a rare fire appeare, and of an vnaccustomed figure there is no man that is not desirous to know what it is, and forgetting all other things he questioneth vpon this new accident, not knowing whether he ought to admire or feare. For many there are that will enkindle feare in other men, and walke about and presage that this fire threatneth some great mischiefe. They enquire therefore, and would needs know whether it be a prodigie or some starre in the heauen.* 1.3 B••t truely no man may eyther search after a thing more magnificent, nor learne a thing more pro∣fitable, then what the nature of the stars and planets is. Whether this contra∣cted flame, which both our sight doth affirme, and that light which floweth from them, and that heat that descendeth from thence; or whether they are not flaming Orbes, but certaine solid and earthly bodies, which sliding thorow fierie tracts, draw their brightnesse and colour from them, not being cleere of themselues. Of which opinion many great men were, who beleeued that the stars were compact of a solid substance, and were nourished by forrain fire: for their flame, say they, would flie away except it had something that restrained it, and detained it, and being gathered and not vnited to a stable bodie, vndoubt∣edly the world by his storminesse had dissipated it.

CHAP. II.

* 1.4FOr the better inuestigation hereof, it shall not be amisse to enquire whether Comets are of the same condition as the stars are. For they seeme to haue something common with them, their rising and setting, their resemblance likewise, although they spread and stretch themselues out longer: for they are as fierie and bright as the other. But if all starres were terrestriall exhalations, the Comets and starres should be alike: but if they be nought else but pure fire, and continue sixe mo∣neths; neyther the continuall turning and swiftnesse of the heauen dissolueth them, they likewise may consist of a thin matter, neyther for all this be dissipa∣ted by the continuall course of heauen. To this point it appertaineth also to know if the heauen turneth the earth continuing fixed, or if the heauen is vn∣moueable, and the earth turneth. For some there were that haue said that it is we whom nature insensibly turneth about,* 1.5 and that the rising and setting is not by the motion of the heauens, but that they rise and set. It is a thing worthy contemplation to know in what estate we are, if the place wherein we abide be fixed or turned, whether God causeth vs to turne, or causeth all things to turne about vs; but it is necessary for vs to haue a collection and knowledge of the auncient rising of Comets: for as yet their courses cannot be comprehended, by reason of their raritie, neyther can it be sought out whether they obserue their courses, and some due order produceth them to their certaine day. This obseruation of celestiall things is a nouelti••, and but lately brought into Greece.

CHAP. III.

DEMOCRITVS also the most subtlest amongst all the ancient Phi∣losophers saith,* 1.6 that he suspecteth that there are diuers starres that runne, but neyther hath he set downe their number, nor their names, for as yet had he not comprehended the courses of the fiue Planets. Endoxus was the first that brought the doctrine of these motions out of Egypt into Greece, yet speakes he nothing of Comets; whereby it appeareth that this part had not beene sufficiently laboured and sought into by the Egyptians, who had been the most curious obseruers of the heauens. After him Conon a diligent enquirer after these things, likewise gathe∣red that these eclipses of the Sunne were obserued by the Egyptians: yet made he no mention of Comets, which he would not haue forgotten, if they had any waies made mention or giuen knowledge of them. Two onely amongst the Caldees, who are reported to haue studied this science, Epigenes and Apollonius Myndius a most cunning obseruer of the works of nature, differ amongst them∣selues: for the one saith that Comets by the Caldees are put amongst the num∣ber of wandering starres, and that their courses are well knowne. But Epigenes contrariwise saith that the Caldees haue no assured knowledge of Comets, but that in their iudgements they are kindled by some storme that is agitated and stirred in the ayre.

CHAP. IIII.

IF first therefore thou thinkest it meete,* 1.7 we will set downe their o∣pinions and refell them: This man thinkes that the starre of Sa∣turne hath the most force vnto all the celestiall motions. This when as she presseth the neighbouring signe of Mars, or that she passeth into those that haue a vicinity with the Moone, or falleth into the beames of the Sunne, being by nature windie and colde, she closeth and thickneth the ayre in diuers parts. Afterwards, if she hath gathered into her selfe the beames of the Sunne, it thundereth and lightneth. If Mars fauoureth her likewise, it lightneth. Besides (saith he) the lightnings haue one matter, and the fulgurations another; for the euaporation of the water, and all other things which are moist, doth nought else but moue the lightnings, which doe nought else but moue threatnings; neyther succeedeth there any other euill. But the exhalation that mounteth from the earth, as being more hot and more drie produceth lightnings. But those beames and Torches which differ in no other thing amongs•• themselues but in greatnesse, are made after this manner: when as some globe of the ayre hath inclosed moyst and earthly things in that which we call a ••torme; whithersoeuer it is carried it presenteth the forme of an ex∣tended fire, which continueth so long as the complexion of that ayre hath remained, carrying in it selfe much moyst and earthly matter.

CHAP. V.

* 1.8TO begin with the last lies: this is false that Torches and fierie beames are expressed by a storm: for a storme is formed, and row∣leth neere vnto the earth; and therefore it pulleth vp shrubs by the roots, and wheresoeuer it inclineth, it maketh the ground na∣ked, laying holde in the meane space on woods and houses, for the most part lower then the clouds, and yet neuer higher. But contrariwise, the pillars appeare in the highest region of the ayre, and consequently they haue neuer resisted the clouds. Furthermore, a storme presseth forward more violent∣ly beyond comparison aboue any other cloude, and fulfilleth his course in a round. It likewise continueth not long time, but bursteth it selfe by his owne violence. But pillars of fire neyther rome, nor flie ouer as Torches doe, but a∣bide in one place, and shine in the same part of the heauen. Charimander also in that booke which he wrote of Comets, saith, that Anaxagoras obserued in the heauens a great and vnaccustomed light of the greatnesse of a huge pillar, and that it shined for many dayes. Calisthenes testifieth that there appeared the like resemblance of extended fire, before that Buris or Helice were hidden by the sea. A••istotle saith, that it was not a beame but a comet; but that by reason of the ex∣cessiue heate it appeared not to be scattered fire, but in processe of time, when as now it burned lesse, it presented it selfe in the forme of a Comet: in which fire there were many things that were worthy to be noted, and yet nothing more then this, that when it shined in the heauens, the Sea presently ouerflowed Bu∣ris and Helice. Did not therfore Aristotle beleeue, that not only that, but al other beames were Comets? This difference haue you, that in the one the fire was continuall, in the other scattered: for pillars haue an equall flame, neyther in∣termitted or failing in any place, and coacted in the vttermost parts thereof, such as that was whereof I spake of late, according to Calisthenes opinion.

CHAP. VI.

* 1.9EPIGENES saith there are two sorts of Comets; the one on euery side powre forth their heat, and change not their place; others extend their scattered fire in one place like haire, and tra∣uerse the stars, where two such haue appeared in our time. These former are crinite, and euery wayes likewise immoueable, yet are they for the most part lower, & composed of the same causes, as pillars and tor∣ches are from the intemperature of the troubled ayre, which carries with it self many moist and drie exhalations that are raised from the earth. For the winde that slides thorow these straits may inflame the ayre aboue, ful of nutriment, fit for fire, and afterwards driue it backeward from the place where it is calmest, for feare lest through some cause it should returne and grow fain••, and anon after should come to raise it selfe, and enkindle the fire where it was. For we see that the winds after some certain daies, return vnto the same place whence they first issued. The raines also, and other kindes of tempests, returne vnto their point and assignation. But to expresse his intent in a few wordes, he thinketh that Comets are made in the same sort, as fires that are cast out by stormes; this on∣ly is the difference, that the stormes fall from on high vpon the earth, and these fires raise themselues from the earth vnto the heauens.

CHAP. VII.

MAnie things are spoken against these;* 1.10 first, if the winde were the cause, a Comet ••hould neuer appeare without winde, but now it appeareth euen in the calmest ayre. Againe, if it were caused by winde, it should fall with the winde: and if it beganne with the winde it should increase with the winde, and ••he more fiery should it be, the more violent the winde was. To this adde that likewise: The winde impelleth many parts of the ayre; but a Comet appeareth in one place: the winde mounteth not vp on high; but Comets are seene very high aboue the windes. After this he passeth ouer to those, which a•• he saith, haue a more certaine resemblance of stars, which goe forward, and passe the signes in the Zodiaque. These, saith he, are made of the same causes as the other that are lower: in this onely they differ, that the exhalations of the earth, carrying many drie things with them, ascend to the higher part, and by the North wind are driuen into the vpper part of heauen. Againe, if the North winde did driue them, they should be alwayes driuen to the Southward, against which the North winde bloweth. But they haue diuers stations, some goe towards the East, some towards the West, and all in turning, which way the winde would not giue. Againe, if the violence of the North winde, lifted them vp from the earth vnto the heauens, Comets should not rise with any other windes; but they rise.

CHAP. VIII.

BVt now let vs refell that reason of his (for he vseth them both). All that which the earth hath exhaled,* 1.11 eyther drie or moyst, comming to ioyne in one, the discord that happeneth betweene these bodies, maketh the ayre become stormie. The vehemen∣cie then of that turning winde enkindleth by his course, and ray∣seth vp on high, that which it holdeth inclosed in it selfe, and the brightnesse of the fire that is inclosed dureth as long time as the exhalation, whereby he is en∣tertained, which beginning to decrease, the fire decreaseth likewise. He that said this, considered not what the course of storms & Comets is. That of storms is headlong and violent, and swifter then the winds: that of the Comets is more milde, and no man can discouer what way they make in foure and twenty ho∣wers. Furthermore, the motion of ••tormes is inconstant, scattered, and turning: that of Comets is certain, and keepeth one setled course. Would any one of vs thinke that the winde carrieth away, or that the storme causeth the Moone to turne, or else the fiue wandering stars? Nothing lesse in my iudgement. And why? Because their course is neyther troubled nor suspended. Let vs transferre the same vnto Comets. They moue not confusedly or tumultuosly, so as any man should beleeue that they are impelled by turbulent and inconstant causes. And again, althogh these storms might embrace the exhalations of earth & wa∣ter•• & afterwards lift them vp from beneath vpwards•• yet should they not make them mount aboue the Moone. All their carriage extendeth no farther then the clouds. But we see that comets are intermixed with the stars, & slide along the superior parts. It is not therfore likely, that in so great space a storm of winde may continue, the which as it is most violent, the sooner takes it an end.

CHAP. IX.

* 1.12LEt him choose which of these two he li••t: if it be a light storme it cannot discend from so high, if it be a violent and sudden storme, it will break it selfe the sooner. Moreouer, these lower comets mount not so high as some think, by reason that they haue more waighty matter then the rest. This waight hindreth them from mounting. Contrariwise, it must necessarily follow that the comets that are highest, and are of longest continuance haue a matter more solid then the lower. They like∣wise could not continue longer except some more stronger nutriment maintai∣ned them. I said not long since that a storme could not endure long, nor raise it selfe aboue the Moone, nor as far as the stars: for a storme is raised by a conflict of diuers windes one with another. This conflict cannot be of long continu∣ance: for an vncertaine winde hauing strugled with the rest, finally, the victory remaineth to that whi••h is the strongest. But no violent tempest lasteth long. The more headlong the tempests are, the lesse time and continuance haue they: when the windes are in their full force, they incontinently begin to decline, and it must needs be that by their more earnest vigor they should tend to their dis∣solution. So then no man euer saw a strong storme of winde continue longer then foure and twentie houres, no not an houre. The swiftnesse thereof is won∣derfull, and no lesse wo••derfull is the shortnesse. Besides this, he turneth with more greater violence and swiftnesse about the earth: if it be high, it is lesse headlong, by reason whereof it spreadeth it selfe. Adde hereunto now, that if it raised it selfe aboue the regions of the ayre, towards the heauens and stars, the motion of them, which whirleth about the whole frame would dissolue and dissipate the same: for what is it that turneth more swiftly then the motion of heauen? When the force of all the winds should be assembled together, and the solid and firme structure of the earth likewise, this motion could dissipate all that, and consequently in lesse then nothing, should make that parcell of in∣torted and confused aire to vanish.

CHAP. X.

* 1.13FVrthermore, the fire carried vp by the storme could not continue long, if the storme continued not likewise: but what is more in∣credible then that a storme should last long? For one motion is ouercome by his contrary motion: for the place aboue the ayres hath his motion that carrieth the heauens.

And drawes the higher starres with swifter turne, And whirles them round about.

And if thou grant them some remission, which can hardly be done in any sort, what shall we say of comets that continue sixe moneths? Againe, there should be two motions in one place, the one of them diuine and continual, accomplish∣ing his work without intermission, the other fresh & new, being shaken by the storme. Of necessitie therfore, the one must be an impediment to the other. But the motion of the Moone & the course of the other Planets, which are aboue, alwaies obserue their time, neither stop they ••uer, or stay they, nor giueth vs

any suspition of intermission or let in their motion. It is an incredible thing that a storme (which is a kinde of tempest extremely violent and impetuous) should mount as high as mid-heauen, and whirle it selfe amongst the spheares, whose course is so peaceable and gouerned, Put case that a storme enkindleth a fire, and driueth it vp on high, or that it ••ppeareth in a longer forme, yet think I that it must be such as that is which causeth the fire. But the forme of a storme is round, for it turneth in the same place, and is whirled about, after the manner of a cylinder that turneth and rouleth in it selfe: therefore the fire that is inclosed therein must be like vnto the same. But it is long and scattered, and no wayes like vnto that which is round.

CHAP. XI.

LEt vs leaue Epigenes, & examin other mens opinions, which before I begin to expound,* 1.14 this is first of all to be presupposed, that Co∣mets are not seen in one part of the heauen, nor in the Zodiak on∣ly, but appeare as well in the East as in the West, yea, and oft-times about the North. Their forme is not one; for although the Grecians haue made a difference of those whose flame hangeth downe after the manner of a beard, and of those which on euery side of them spread their light as it were haire, and of those whose fire extendeth and poureth it selfe out, but tendeth towards a head; yet are all these of the same note, and are rightly called Comets, whose formes when as they appeare after a long time, it is a hard mat∣ter to compare them one with another. At that very time when they appeare, all those that beholde them are not of the same opinion in respect of their habi∣tude, but euen as each of them hath eyther a sharper or a duller sight;* 1.15 so saith he that they are eyther cleerer or redder, or that their haires are drawn inward∣ly or scattered on the sides. But whether there be any differences of them or no, yet must Comets be made by the same reason. One thing must remaine re∣solued, that it is an extraordinary thing to see a new appearance of stars, that draw about themselues a scattered fire. Some one of the ancients allow of this reason, when as one of the wandring stars adioyneth it selfe to another, both their lights being confused into one, make an appearance of a longer star: ney∣ther doth this happen onely at such time as one Planet toucheth another, but also when they approach, for the space betweene them both is enlightned and inflamed both by the one and the other, and maketh a long fire.

CHAP. XII.

TO these we will answer thus;* 1.16 that there is a certaine number of moueable stars, and that at one time both they and Comets are wont to appeare; whereby it is manifest, that Comets are not caused by their coition and meeting, but are created of them∣selues. It oft-times hapneth that a star is found right vnderneath one of those which is highest, and somtimes Saturne is aboue Iupiter, and Mars beholdeth in a right line both Venus and Mercurie. But for all this course and incountry the one with the other, a Comet is not therefore made, otherwise they should be made euery yeare, for in euery yeare some stars meete together

in one signe, if one Planet drawing neere or aboue another, did make a comet, it should cease to be in the same instant, for the Planets passe suddenly. And ther∣fore is it, that the eclipse of the Planets dureth not long time, because the same course that brought them together carrieth them away swiftly. We see that in a very little space of time the eclipses both of Sunne and Moone take an end. Those of the other Planets likewise which are lesse, ought likewise to continue lesse. But there are certaine comets that endure sixe moneths, which would not come to passe, if they were produced by coniunction of two planets, which can∣not long time subsist together; but that the lawe of necessitie must needes separate them. Besides, these planets seeme neere neighbours one vnto another, yet are they separated by huge distances. How then may one planet dart out fire vnto another, in such sort as both of them seeme but one, when as there is so great a distance betweene them? The light (saith he) of two stars is intermixed, and present a forme of one: in no other sort then when as by meeting with the Sunne, a cloud becommeth red, as the euenings and the mornings are yellow, and as sometimes or other we see the Arch of the Sunne. All these first of all are caused by great force: for it is the Sun that enkindleth these, the stars haue not the same power. Againe, none of these appeare but vnder the Moone, and neere vnto the earth. The superior bodies are pure and sincere, & neuer change their colour. Besides, if any such thing should happen it should not endure, but should be extinguished suddenly, as crownes are which begirt the Sunne or Moone, and vanish a little while after: neyther doth the Raine-bow continue long if any such thing were, wherby the middle space between two stars should be confused, they would as soone vanish out of sight, or if it continued it should not be so long as the comets endure. The planets shape their course in the cir∣cle of the Zodiacke, but the comets appeare in all the parts of the heauen. As touching the time of their apparition, it is no more certaine then the place wherein they are confined.

CHAP. XIII.

THis is alleged by Artemidorus against that which is said before, that not onely the fiue stars do run,* 1.17 but that they are obserued alone, yet that innumerable starres, that are carried in secret, eyther vn∣knowne vnto vs by reason of the obscuritie of their light, or by reason of such a position of their circles, that then at length they are seene when they are come to their period or end. Therfore, as he saith, some stars run between, which are new vnto vs, which intermix their light with those that are fixed, and extend their fire far mort then other stars are accustomed: this is the slightest of his fictions, for all his discourses of the world are impudent lies: for if we beleeue him, the heauen that we see is most solid, and hardned af∣ter the manner of a tyle, and of a deepe and thicke bodie, which was made of Atomes congested and gathered together. The next surface vnto this is fiery, so compact that it neither can be dissolued or vitiated, yet hath it som vents and windows, by which the fires enter from the exterior part of the heauen, which are not so large that they may trouble it inwardly, whence again they steale and slip forth. These therefore which appeared contrarie to custome, flowed and had their influence from that matter, that lay on each side of the world. To answer these questions, what other thing is it, then to exercise the hand, and to cast a mans armes into the winde?

CHAP. XIIII.

YEt would I haue this man tell me who hath laid such thicke plan∣chars on the heauen,* 1.18 what reason there is that we should beleeu•• him that the heauen is of this thicknesse. What is the cause he should cary so many solid bodies thither, and detaine them there? Againe, that which is of so great thicknesse, must needs be of a great waight. How therefore may heauie things remaine suspended in the hea∣uens. How commeth it to passe that this heauie burthen faileth not, and brea∣keth not himselfe through his waight? For it cannot be that the force of so great a burthen, as he setteth downe, should hang and depend on so slight staies. Neither can this likewise be spoken, that outwardly there are some supporters that vphold it from falling; nor likewise that in the middest there is any thing opposed, that might entertaine or containe such an impendent bodie. No man likewise dare be so bold as to say that the world is carried and whirled about infinitly, and that it falleth, but that it appeareth not whether it fall or no, be∣cause the precipitation thereof is eternall, hauing no end wherein it may ter∣minate. Some haue spoken thus of the earth,* 1.19 when as they had found no rea∣son why a waight should consist in the aire; It is alwayes falling say they, but it appeareth not whether it fall or no, because, that is infinite into which it fal∣leth. What is it then, whereby thou wilt proue that only fiue starres moue not, but that there are many, and in many regions of the world? Or if it be law∣full to answere this without any probable argument. What is the cause why some man should not say, that either all the stars are moued or none? Againe, that troope of stars that wander heere and there, helpe thee nothing. For the more they be, the oftner should they fall vpon others: but comets are rare, and for this cause are wonderfull. Moreouer, all ages will beare testimony against them, which haue both obserued the rising of those stars, and haue communi∣cated them with posteritie.

CHAP. XV.

AFter the death of Demetrius King of Syria, the father of Demetrius and Antiochus,* 1.20 and a little before the warre in Achaia, there ap∣peared a comet almost as great as the Sun. In the beginning it was a circle of red fire, sparkling with so great light, that it surmoun∣ted the obscuritie of the night. Afterwards this greatnesse began to diminish, and the brightnesse thereof to vanish. Finally, the Comet was wholly spent. How many wandering starres, thinke you, should haue beene ioyned together to make so great a bodie? Although a thousand had beene re∣duced into one Masse, yet could they not reflect so much light as the Sun doth. During the raigne of Attalus a Comet was seene, which in the beginning was but little, but afterwards it encreased, and extended, and lengthened out it selfe as farre as the AEquator, in such sort as it equalled (so long was the extent there∣of) that part of the heauen which the Astronomers call the Milke-white way. How many wandering starres should there haue beene gotten together, to oc∣cupie with a continuall fire so long a tract of heauen?

CHAP. XVI.

* 1.21WE haue spoken against the argument, now must we say somewhat against the witnesses: we need not labour much to empouerish the authoritie of Ephirus, he is an Historian. Some men get com∣mendation by relating of incredible matters, and excite the Rea∣der by some miracle, who would doe some other thing else, if he were but entertained by ordinarie matters. Some are credulous, and some neg∣ligent, some are circumuented,* 1.22 and some pleased with lies: the one auoid them not, the other desire them. And this is common of the whole Nation, which as he thinketh cannot approue his worke; neither that it will be passable and vendible, except it hath some aspersion of lies. But Ephirus, a man of no religi∣ous honestie or faith, is oft-times deceiued, and oftentimes deceiueth: as in this place, because when as in this Comet, which all the world obserued, drew after it the euent of a mightie matter, when as vpon the rising therof it drowned He∣lice and Buris, hee saith that it diuided it selfe into two starres, which besides himselfe no man testifieth. For who is he that could obserue that moment, wherein the Comet was dissolued, and diuided into two parts? And how if there be any man that hath seene a Comet diuided into two, is there no man that hath seene it made of two? And why added he not into what starres it was diuided, whereas it must needs be some one of the fiue Planets.

CHAP. XVII.

* 1.23APOLLONIVS MINDIVS is of a contrary opinion, for he saith that a Comet is not made one out of diuers erraticall starres, but that many Comets are erraticall. It is not a false appearance, nor an ex∣tended fire, by the vicinitie of two Planets, that maketh a Comet: her forme is not restrained in a round, but more high, and exten∣ded in length: yet hath it no manifest course, for it trauerseth the highest part of heauen, and when as she is at the lowest of her course, she is not seene. Nei∣ther are we to thinke that we saw the same in Claudius time, which appeared in Augustus dayes, nor that which appeared vnder Nero Caesar, which hath eno∣bled all the rest; was like vnto that which appeared about the eleuenth houre of the day, when as men celebrated the sports of mother Venus, after Iulius Cae∣sar had beene murthered. There are diuers Comets of diuers sorts, of different greatnes and dislike in colour: the one are red, without any clearenes, the other white, and of a pure and cleare brightnesse, the other flaming obscurely, and en∣uironed with thicke smoake. Some are bloudie, hideous, which presage nothing else but murthers and massacres. These either lessen or encrease their light, as other celestiall fires doe in descending and approching more neere vnto vs, they show more cleare and more great: lesse and more obscure in remounting, be∣cause they withdraw themselues further off.

CHAP. XVIII.

HEreunto we forth with answere,* 1.24 that the same falleth not out in Comets, that happeneth in other Celestiall fires. For Comets, the very first day they appeare are at the greatest. But they should encrease the neerer they draw vnto vs: but now their first appearance continueth vntill such time as they begin to bee extinguished. Againe, that which was answered to the first, may be answered to this man likewise: if a Comet were a Planet, and had his course, it should be moued within the bounds of the Zodiake, in which all other Planets shape their course. For neuer doth a star appeare by a star. Our sight cannot penetrate tho∣row a starre, to see thorow it, what is vnder it. But men see thorow a comet, as thorow a cloud, that which is vnderneath, whereby it appeareth that it is not a star, but a light fire that is gathered in hast.

CHAP. XIX.

ZENO the Stoique is of this opinion,* 1.25 supposing that the starres doe ranke themselues, the one of them neere vnto the other, and inter∣mix their beames, where there followeth an appearance of a long star. By this reckoning diuers thinke that there are no comets, but that by reuerberation of the stars, which are one of them neere vn∣to the other, or by the coniunction of them that entertaine one another that is caused, which hath such or such appearance of a comet. Some maintaine that there are•• but that they haue their particular courses, and at the end of certaine yeares they appeare. Some other accord also that there are; but deny that they ought to be called starres, because they diminish by little and little, and conti∣nue not long, and vanish, as it were, in an instant.

CHAP. XX.

DIuers of our coat and sort are of the same opinion,* 1.26 neither thinke they that it repugneth against the truth: for we see diuers sorts of fires that are formed in the aire, and sometimes the heauen on fire, sometimes long streames of flame, then burning torches carried a∣way swiftly, with a large fire: the lightnings also, although mar∣vellously sudden, in an instant dazle the eyes, and leaue there fires proceeding from the aire, that is crushed and violently beaten together. Therefore resist they not, but being expressed, flow, and forthwith perish. Other fires continue long, and vanish not, except first of all that aliment that nourished them be con∣sumed. In this ranke are those miracles that are written by Possidonius, burning pillars and bucklers, and other fierie impressions, notable by reason of their noueltie, which would not astonish mens minds, if they appeared according to custome and nature. All men are amased that behold these, and be it that any fire either shine or shoot, be it that pressing the aire, and by setting it on fire, it subsisteth, and is reputed for some noueltie, euery one gazeth thereat, and sup∣poseth it to be miraculous. What then? Hath not the heauen sometimes ope∣ned,

and a great clearenesse hath broken forth of the cauitie. Thou mightest exclaime: What is this?

I see the heauen depart it selfe in twaine And scattered starres from thence shine forth againe.

Which sometimes haue shined before the night was expected, and haue broken forth at mid-day, but there is another reason hereof, why they appeare at an vnusuall time, which that they were, it is manifest euen then, when they were hidden. We see not many comets that are obscured by the Sunne-beames, in whose Eclipse, as Possidonius testifieth, there appeared a Comet, which the neighbouring Sunne had hidden. For oftentimes when the Sunne setteth, there are certaine scattered fires seene not farre of him: the cause is, because the grea∣ter light is spred in such sort ouer the lesser, that it may not be seene: But Co∣mets escape the Sunne-beames.

CHAP. XXI.

* 1.27SO then the Stoickes hold that the Comets, such as are torches, trumpets, pillars, and other such wonders in the heauen are crea∣ted of thicke aire. And therefore appeare they most often in the North, because in that place there is found much waightie aire. Why then is not a Comet fixed, but goeth forward? After the manner of fires, it followeth that which nourisheth it. For although by nature he inclineth vpwards, yet when it wanteth matter, it declineth into that aire, according as the matter thereof tendeth or bendeth it, either to the right or left part. For it hath no way, but such as the vaine of that which nourisheth it leadeth it, thither creepeth it; neither shapeth she her course as a starre, but is fed as fire is. Why then appeareth it a long time, and is not quickly extinguish∣ed? For that we beheld vnder the happie gouernmet of Nero, was seene for the space of six moneths, shaping a course altogether opposite to that which appea∣red in the time of Claudius.* 1.28 For that rising from the North vpwards, declined to∣wards the East, alwaies more obscure. This began in the same part, but bending towards the West, declined towards the Southward, and then vanished out of sight. That in Claudius time had a quarter more moist, and more fit for inflama∣tion, which she followed. That in Neroes time had a more spacious and fur∣nished extent. They therefore descend thither, whither the matter that main∣taineth them draweth them, and not their way: which appeareth to be diuers in those two which we beheld, whereas the one moued toward the right hand, the other towards the left. But all starres haue their course in the same part, that is to say, contrarie to that of the heauens, which turneth from the East to the West, and the starres quite contrarie: they haue therefore a double motion, that of their owne, and that of the heauens, that carrieth them.

CHAP. XXII.

I Am not of the Stoiques opinion,* 1.29 for I think not that a comet is a sudden ••ire, but that it i•• to be r••puted ••mongst one of the eternal workes of Nature. First of all•• whatsoeuer the aire createth, are of short continuance, because they are made of a fleeting and muta∣ble subiect. For how can any thing subsist long time in the same sort in the aire, when as the aire it selfe neuer remaineth like it selfe? It doth no∣thing but turn and flow, and hath ve••y lit••le rest. In a moments space it is chan∣ged into another state then it was in before: now is it faire, now rayny, then in∣constant betweene both, for clouds are familiar with it•• into which he gathereth himself, and from which hee is dissolued, which now ass••mble themselues, sud∣denly scatter, and neuer continue at rest. It cannot be that a setled ••ire should take his situation in a body so fleeting, and should clea••e vnto it so obstinatly, as if nature had so appropriated it, that it should neuer be seperated from it. More∣ouer, if it alwayes remained annexed to ••hat which en••••rtaineth the same, it should neuer descend: for the neerer the aire approcheth to the earth the thic∣ker it is, and neuer doth a comet descend as far as the lower re••••on of the aire•• neither approcheth so neere vnto the earth. The fire likewise mounteth thither, whither his nature carieth him, that is to say, on high, or thither, whither the matter to which it cleaueth, or that it feedeth, draweth him.

CHAP. XXIII.

NO ordinary and celestiall fires haue an oblike way.* 1.30 Circular moti∣on is the property of the stars, yet know I not whether any other comets haue done th•• like•• tw•• in our age haue don〈…〉〈…〉 that which is kindled by a temporall cause is quickly 〈…〉〈…〉. So doe torches burne in passing by, so lig••••nings 〈…〉〈…〉 force for a flash, so those stars that are called transuerse and falling, 〈…〉〈…〉 cut the aire; no fires haue continuance but in their owne fire. Those diuine ••tars speake I of, which shall continue as long as the heauen it selfe, because they are parts and the workmanship there••f. But these do something, they go, they in∣fallibly follow their courses, and are equall. For they should euery other day be∣come greater or lesse (if there fire were gathered and collected) sodainly enkind∣led vpon some cause: for it should be lesser or greater, accordingly as it should be abundantly or sparingly entertained. I said of l••te that there is nothing con∣tinuall which is inflamed by the corrup••ion of the aire•• now adde I further,* 1.31 it neither can abide or stand by any meanes. For both a torch, and lightning, and a shooting star; and whatsoeuer fire is expressed by the aire, stayeth not in a place, neither appeareth but whilest it fa••leth. The comet hath her siege, whence she is not so soone chased, but shee finisheth her course in measure, and is not extin∣guished suddenly, but vadeth by little and little: if it were a wandering starre, saith he•• it should be in the Zodiake. Who se••••••••h one limit for the stars?* 1.32 Who driueth diuine things into a strait? The Plane••s which thou only thinkest haue motion, haue diuers circles. Why therefore should there not be others, which might haue a way proper & peculiar from that of the Planets? what is the cause that the heauē is vnaccessible in some place? If thou thinkest that no Planet may passe the Zodiake, I say that a comet may haue his circle so large, that in so••e place he may enter into the Zodiaque. This is not necessarie, but it may be.

CHAP. XXIIII.

* 1.33COnsider whether this becommeth not the greatnesse of heauen b••tter that it bee diuided into seuerall courses, then to imagine one only circle wherein all the Planets haue their course, and that the rest remayne vnprofitable and idle. Beleeuest thou that in this so great and ••aire body, amongst innumerable starres, which by their diuers beautie adorne and distinguish the night, nor suffering the ayre to remayne vo••de and improfitable, that there should be but only fiue starres, to whom it should be lawfull to exercise themselues, whilst all the rest stand, like a fixed and immoueable multitude? if any man enquire of me in this place, why therfore is not the course of these as well obserued as of those fiue starres? To him I will answere, that we graunt that there are many things, but what they are we know not. All of vs will confesse, that each of vs hath a soule, by whose command we are impelled, and reuoked: but what this soule is which is the Ruler and Gouernour ouer vs, euery man is as farre from telling thee, as he is vncertaine where it is. Some will say that it is a spirit, an other that it is har∣monie. That Man, a diuine thing, and like vnto God; This Man, a very subtill aire, and that other, an incorpor••all facultie: neither will there want some that will call it bloud; othersome, heat. So that a man cannot know the truth of o∣ther thinges, who as yet hath not the perfect knowledge of himselfe.

CHAP. XXV.

* 1.34WHy wonder we therefore that the Comets (which are a rare spe∣ctacle of heauen) are as yet vnrestrained vnder certaine lawes, and that neither their beginnings nor endings are knowne, ha∣uing not their returne, but after a long space of time? There are not yet a thousand and fiue hundreth yeares past since Greece

Numbred and named the light-some starres.

and many Nations are there at this day who know not the heauen but by sight, that as yet are ignorant why the Moone faileth, or suffereth an eclipse: And these things amongst vs likewise haue beene lately reduced to a certaintie. The time shall come that these things which are now hidden shall be discouered by Time, and the diligence of future Ages. One Age is ouer-short to seeke out these secrets, and a mans whole age is required to be spent in the contemplation of heauen. Is it not a miserie for vs that wee diuide this little time wee haue to liue,* 1.35 betweene serious and friuolous occupati••ns? There shall bee diuers ages therefore that shall cleare these difficulties: The time shall come wherein our Posteritie shall wonder that we were ignorant of so manifest thinges: wee haue learned not long since in what time those fiue Planets, which we perceiue, doe rise and set, or stay, why they goe directly on, or recoile backward, and which holding so different courses, constraine vs to be curiou••: Not many yeares since it hath beene shewed vs•• if Iupiter riseth, or setteth, or is retrograde; for so it is said, when he retireth. There haue been some that haue said vnto vs: you erre, that iudge that any starre either suppresseth or turneth his course. Celestiall bo∣dies

haue their motion, neither can they be auerted, they all goe forward, as soone as they are sent, they goe. They shall bee no more when they cease to moue. This eternall worke hath irreuocable motions: which if they should at any time s••ay, the one should bee confounded in the other, where as now the same tenure and equalitie conser••eth them.

CHAP. XXVI.

WHence commeth it then that certaine Planets seeme to bee retro∣grade?* 1.36 The course of the Sunne imposeth on them this appea∣rance of slow motion, besides, the nature and site of their courses and circles in such sort, that at somtimes they deceiue their sight that behold them. In this sort, ships that saile with a fore-winde seeme not to stirre: The day will come when some one shall shew vs in what parts the Comets wander: why they obserue so different a course from other starres,* 1.37 what and how great they are: We content our selues with those things that are found: Let those that succeede vs manifest the truth likewise for their parts•• We see not, saith he, any thing that is vnderneath the Planets. Our eyes pierce the Comets. First, if this be so, it is not in that part where the celestiall body is of a thick and solide fire, but there, where there is a brightnesse more rare, and in that part where the haires are scattered. Thou seest through the spaces of the fires, and not through them. All starres (saith he) are round, all Comets are extended, whereby it appeareth that they are no starres: but who will graunt thee this, that Comets are long? whereas naturally according as o∣ther celestiall bodies are, they are formed round, but it is their brightnesse that extendeth it selfe. Euen as the Sunne spreadeth his beames farre and neare, and yet hath another forme then that which proceedeth from his beames: so the bodies of Comets are round, but their light appeareth more long, then that of the other starres.

CHAP. XXVII.

WHy (saiest thou?) Tell me first why the Moone receiueth a dif∣ferent light from that of the Sunne,* 1.38 when as shee receiueth the same from the Sunne? whence is it that she is sometimes red, and sometimes pal••? For what cause hath she a leaden and darke co∣lour, wh••n shee is excluded from the sight of the Sunne? make me vnderstand why all the starres haue a different appearance the one from the other, and haue no resemblance with that of the Sunne. But as nothing hinde∣reth them to be starres, although they resemble not, so nothing hindereth the Comets from being eternall, and of the same condition that the starres are, al∣though they haue not the same appearance. And why? the world it selfe, if thou consider the same, is it not composed of diuers parts? whence is it that the sunne is alwaies burning in the signe of Leo, and scorcheth the earth with excessiue heat, and that in Aquarius he calleth on the Winter, and causeth the Riuers to freeze? All this is but one sunne, although his nature and effects are diuers: within a short time after, he riseth in the signe of Aries, and slowly stealeth on in that of Libra, yet both the one and the other signe is of the same nature, al∣though

that in the one there is swift motion, and in the other slow progresse. Seest thou not how contrarie the elements are the one vnto the other. They are heauie and light, cold and hot, moist and drie. All the harmonie of the world is composed of discords. Thou denyest that a Comet is a starre, because the forme of the one is not answerable to that of the other. For thou seest how like that starre is that ful••illeth his course in thirtie yeares, to that which finisheth his within the space of twelue moneths, nature frameth not all her workes vp∣on one mold, but glorifieth her selfe in her varietie. Shee hath made some bo∣dies greater, some more swift then others, some more violent, and some more tempered: There are some shee hath drawn•• from the troupe, to the end they should march apart and in sight, other some hath she put into comp••nie: hee is wholly ignorant of the power of nature, that thinketh not that it ••s lawfull for him to doe that sometimes which he doth often. She sheweth not Comets or∣dinarily, she attributeth them an other place, other times, and different motions from the rest: By these Comets he would embezzle the ••xcellencie of his worke and the face of the Comet is more faire, then that it should be esteemed casuall; whether it be we obserue their extent, whether their more cleare brigh••nesse, and more ardent then others. But their face hath some worthy and notable thing in it, for it is not restrained and locked vp in a narrow roome•• but is more large and spacious, and that comprehendeth that which diue••s starres embrace.

CHAP. XXVIII.

* 1.39COmets signifie tempest, as Aristotle saith, and the intempe∣rature of windes and raynes. Thinkest thou then that that which presageth a thing to come is not a starre? For this is not in such sort a signe and presage of tempest as that is of rayne, when

Where boyling oile doth crack, and rotten mushromes growes.

Or as it is a signe that the sea will rage,

When Morcheus sport vpon the dryer coast, And leaue the marshes where they haunted most: And mounting hence forsakes his watrie shroudes, And soares aloft aboue the highest cloudes.

But thus as the Equinoctiall presageth heat or the cold of the yeare, that run∣neth as the Chaldies say, that the starre that gouerneth on the birth-day, set∣leth and presageth the good or euill hap of men. But to the end thou maiest know that this is thus, the Comet threatneth not the earth with winde and raine sodainly, as Aristotle saith, but maketh all the whole yeare suspected: whereby it appeareth that a Comet hath not sodainly drawne presages to re∣flect them vpon that which shee meeteth withall, but shee hath them in reser∣uation, and comprehended by the lawes of the world: The Comet that appea∣red during the Consulship of Paterculus, and V••piscus, accomplished that which was foretold by Aristotle and Theophrastus: For there were great and continuall tempests euery where. But in Achaia and Macedon the Cities were ruined by earthquake. Their slow motion (saith Aristotle) sheweth that they are waigh∣tie, and haue much earthly exhalation in them: Their course likewise for al∣most ordinarily they are pushed towards the Poles.

CHAP. XXIX.

BOth the one and the other is false,* 1.40 I will first speake of the former, why those things that are carried more heauily are more waigh∣ty? what then? Is the Planet of Saturne, which of all others sha∣peth his course more slowly, heauie? But it is a signe of leuitie in it, that it is aboue the rest. But she goeth about with a longer com∣passe, in the moneth more slowly, but longer then the rest. Remember thy selfe that I may say as much of Comets, although their course be more slow. But it is a lie to say they goe more slowly, for this last hath trauersed the halfe of the heauens in sixe moneths space: The former shaped his course in lesse time. But because that Comets are waightie, they are carried more low. First, that which is carried circularly, hath not a course in straight angle. Afterwards, this last be∣ganne his motion in the North, and came by the West vnto the South, then raising her course vanished. The other vnder Claudianus appeared first in the North, and ceased not to raise it selfe continually on, and vntill it was extinct. Hetherto haue I proposed other mens reasons, or mine owne, in respect of Co∣mets: which, whether they be true or no, the Gods know, who haue the know∣ledge of truth. For vs it is lawfull to censure and coniecture vpon them in se∣cret only, not with any confidence to finde them out, but yet with some hope.

CHAP. XXX.

ARISTOTLE speaketh worthily,* 1.41 that we ought neuer to be accom∣panied with more modestie, then when we speake of the Gods: if we enter the Temples with a good countenance; if we approch the Sacrifice with abased eyes; if wee cast our gownes ouer our faces; if wee compose our behauiour in the most humblest sort that may be: how much more ought we to doe this when we dispute of fixed and wandring starres, and of the nature of the Gods; auoiding carefully all rash, impudent, light, foolish, lying, and malicious speech? neither let vs wonder that those things are discouered lately, which lye hidden so deeply. It must needes concerne Panaetius and those,* 1.42 that denie that a Comet is an ordinarie starre, affir∣ming that it is but a vaine appearance to intreat more exactly, if euery moneth of the yeare be equally apt to produce Comets; if euery Region of the heauens be fit to entertaine them, if they may be conceiued euery where, whereas they may wander: and other questions, all which are taken away, when I say that they are no casuall fires, but interlaced in the heauens, which they bring not forth frequently, but moue them in secret. How many things are there besides Comets, that passe in secret, and neuer discouer themselues to mans eyes?* 1.43 For God hath not made all thinges subiect to humane sight. How little see wee of that which is enclosed in so great an Orbe? Euen he that manageth these things, who hath created them, who hath founded the World, and hath inclosed it a∣bout himselfe, and is the greater and better part of this his worke•• is not subiect to our eyes, but is to be visited by our thoughts.

CHAP. XXXI.

* 1.44THere are many thinges besides, that are neare vnto the diuinitie, and haue a power that approcheth neare vnto it, which are hid∣den, or happily which thou wilt more wonder at, haue filled our eyes, and fled from them, be it that their subtilitie is so great, as the apprehension of humane vnderstanding cānot reach therun∣to, or that so great a maiestie remaineth hidden in so sacred a retreat, gouerning his Kingdome, that is himselfe, without suffering any thing to approch him, but the soule of man: We cannot know, what this thing is, without which nothing is; and we wonder if some small fires are vnknowne vnto vs, wheras God which is the greatest part of the world, is not subiect to our vnderstanding? How ma∣ny liuing creatures haue we first knowne in this world? and many things like∣wise are there, that the people of succeeding age shall know, which are vn∣knowne vnto vs.* 1.45 Many things are reserued for the ages to come, when as our memorie shall bee extinguished. The world is a little thing, except all men haue somewhat to obserue in it. Those thinges that are sacred are oftentimes taught. The Eleusians alwayes reserue some noueltie, to shew vnto those that revisit them. Nature discouereth not her secrets at once: we thinke that we are exercised in them, but we are but poore Nouices. Thinges that are so hidden, are not the subiects and obiects of euery mans eyes: they are enclosed and shut vp in his most retyred sacrarie. The ages wherein wee are shall see somewhat, the succedent another part: why therefore shall these things bee brought into our knowledge. The greatest come slowly, especially when we cease to trauell after them. That which we wholly endeuour in our mindes, we haue not yet effected, which is to be most wicked: vices are but yet a learning: dissolution hath found some noueltie whereupon he may mad himselfe and doate. Impu∣dicitie hath attracted some new thing to defame her selfe: The pompe and va∣nitie of this world hath inuented I know not what, more daintie and delicate then was accustomed, to confound it selfe: Wee are not as yet sufficiently effe∣minate, but extinguish by our disguises all that which remaineth of vertue: we will out-strip women in their vanities; we that are men, attire our selues in co∣lours like Harlots, which modest Matrons would be ashamed to thinke vpon: We Bride it in our walkes, and treade vpon tip-toe; wee walke not, but slip a∣long. Our fingers are loaden with rings,* 1.46 and there is not a ioynt that hath not a precious stone: We daily inuent, I know not what, to violate and vitiate man∣hood, and to defame it, because wee cannot shake it off. One hath cut off his members, another hath retyred himselfe into the most shamefull and infamous place in the Theater, and being hired to die, is armed with infamie. The poore man likewise hath found a subiect, wherein to exercise his infirmitie.

* 1.47CHAP. XXXII.

WOnderest thou that wisedome hath not as yet attained her perfe∣ction? Iniquitie is not yet wholly discouered. Shee is but new borne, and we bestow all our labour vpon her, our eies and hands are at her seruice. Who is he that se••keth after wisedome? who iudgeth her worthy any more but a superficiall knowledge? who respecteth Philosophie or the liberall studie thereof, but when the Plaies and

Pastimes are put downe, or when it rayneth, or when a man knoweth not how to loose the time? Therefore is it that so many schooles of the Philosophers are emptie. The old and new Academique haue no Reader left them: Who is he that will teach the precepts of Pyrrhon. The schoole of Pithagoras, whose scholers were so enuious, findes not a Master. The new sect of the Sextians more powerfull amongst the Romans, then any other, hauing begunne with great vehemencie, is extinguished in his infancie. Contrariwise, what care is there had that the name of some famous stage-player should not be obscured. The families of Pylades and Batillus, two famous Players, continueth by suc∣cessions, there are diuers Scholers and a great number of Professors in those sciences. Priuately through the whole Citie their Pulpit soundeth: hether men and women trot. Both husbands and wiues contend which of them shall bee nearest, afterwards hauing lost all shame vnder their maskes, they enter into Tauernes, caring in no sort what becomes of Philosophie. So farre are we therefore from comprehending any of those things, which the an∣cients haue left in obscuritie, that for the most part most of their inuentions are forgotten. But vndoubt••dly, when we shall trauell with all our power after it, if sober and modest, youth would studie this, if the elders would teach this, and then yonger learne it, yet scarcely should they sound the depth of it, where truth is placed, which now we seeke with idle hands and aboue the earth.

The End of the seuenth and last Booke of the Naturall Questions.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Nouelty rauish∣eth vs, ordinary matters are con∣temptible vnto vs.
• * 1.2

  The application of this curiositie to the considera∣tion of Comets
• * 1.3

  The modest s••rch & examination of these fires is laudable.
• * 1.4

  If Comets are of the same con∣dition as other s••ars.
• * 1.5

  A Paradox of the m••t••on and turning of the earth about the heauens, reu••ed in ou•• t••m•• by Copernicus.
• * 1.6

  The ancient na∣turall Philoso∣phers seemed o∣uer curious in obseruing comets
• * 1.7

  Epigenes opi∣nion as touching the meteors of fire.
• * 1.8

  An examination and distinct re∣sutation of those opinions.
• * 1.9

  Two sorts of Co∣me••s according t•• Epigenes, and of their causes.
• * 1.10

  The winde is no cause of Comets, a•• Epigenes thinketh.
• * 1.11

  Stormes are not the cause of Comets.
• * 1.12

  The continuation of the refutation contayned in the former chapter.
• * 1.13

  He continu••••h his proo••e, that stormes o•• the ayre cannot be the cause o•• th•• enkindling of Com••ts.
• * 1.14

  Comets appear•• in diuers part•• of heauen.
• * 1.15

  Their qualitie is iudged by the obscuritie or clearenesse of our sight.
• * 1.16

  An answer vnto those that thinke that Comets are formed by the approach and in∣country of two Planets.
• * 1.17

  An instance of Artemidorus to maintaine his opinion, and the answ••r to the sam••.
• * 1.18

  An exact refu∣tation of Arte∣midorus hi•• Paradoxes.
• * 1.19

  Another Para∣dox inclosed in diuers absurdi∣ties.
• * 1.20

  Examples to ap∣proue t••••t one Comet cannot be made of diuers wandering stars.
• * 1.21

  The shamelesse error aod absur∣ditie of some Hi∣storians, taxed, and namely of Artemidorus.
• * 1.22

  Against Histori∣ans in title, and liers in effect.
• * 1.23

  The examinati∣on of Apollo∣nius Paradox, that there are many wandring Comets.
• * 1.24

  A difference be∣tweene Comets and other celesti∣all fires.
• * 1.25

  Zenoes opinion according with Apollonius.
• * 1.26

  Senecaes opi∣nion hereupon.
• * 1.27

  That which the Stoiques teac••, as touching Co∣mets.
• * 1.28

  Of two Comets that appeared in the time of Claudius and Nero.
• * 1.29

  The examinati∣on o•• the Stoicks opinio••.
• * 1.30

  The difference betweene starres and Comets.
• * 1.31

  That which is enflamed by the corruption of the aire cannot subsist.
• * 1.32

  Seneca seemeth to encline in some sort to this opinion, that a Comet is some kind of wande∣ring starre.
• * 1.33

  The reasons that moue him to produce this Paradox.
• * 1.34

  That there is som••what more i•• Comet•• then in other Meteors of ••i••e.
• * 1.35

  One A••e cannot know all thinges.
• * 1.36

  Of the retrogra∣dation of certain Planets.
• * 1.37

  To maintain his opinion he an∣swereth to an obiec••ion that is made, that the Comets are more nearer the earth then the Planets and that they are of another form.
• * 1.38

  Another answer of Senecaes, to the obiection, that there is a difference be∣tweene the light of the Comets and Planets.
• * 1.39

  Presage of Co∣mets.
• * 1.40

  Senecaes opi∣nion of that which is contay∣ned in the for∣mer Chapter.
• * 1.41

  The vse of the d••ctrine of Co∣mets.
• * 1.42

  Senecaes an∣swere to Panae∣tius as tou••hing Comets.
• * 1.43

  How God ought to be considered.
• * 1.44

  Of the weaknes of mans iudgmēt in the considera∣tion and know¦ledge of Celestiall things.
• * 1.45

  The wonders of the world are discouered from age to age.
• * 1.46

  Disorders not of Senecaes age but ou••s, wh••re∣in pride want••th no ornam••nt.
• * 1.47

  His Conclusion is such, that he complaineth of the contempt of Philoso••hie, and the affectation of vanities, which if it be not a mi∣sery of this time, let euery wise man iudge.