The history of four-footed beasts and serpents describing at large their true and lively figure, their several names, conditions, kinds, virtues ... countries of their breed, their love and hatred to mankind, and the wonderful work by Edward Topsell ; whereunto is now added, The theater of insects, or, Lesser living creatures ... by T. Muffet ...

Of Spiders and their several sorts.

And first of those that are commonly called PHALANGIES.

THis kinde of venomous creature, of the Latines is called Araneus, or Aranea, and of Cicero in * 1.1 his Books De natura Deorum, Araneola, and Araneolus. Of the Grecians, Arachnes or Arachne. He∣sichius termeth it Stibe; the Hebrews name it Acobitha, Acbar, Acabith, and Semamith; the Arabians, Sibth, and Phihib; in the German tongue Spin, and Banker; in English, Attercop, Spider, and Spinner; of the Brabanders, Spinne; in France, Araigne; in Italy, Ragno, and Ragna; in Spain; Arana or Taran∣na; of the Illyrians it is called Spawanck; of the Polonians, Pajak, and Pajeczino; of the Hungarians, Pox; of the Barbarians, Koatan, and Kersenat. Isidore in his twelfth Book saith, that the Spider is termed Araneus; because she is both bred and fed in the air: but herein he hath fallen into a dou∣ble error. For if they lived only in the air, and by the air, as he would seem to enforce, I marvel to what end and purpose they should so bustly make and pitch their nets for the ensnaring of flies? And if they receive their first being and breeding in the air, I cannot see to what purpose they do either lay egges, or exclude small little Worms after their coupling together.

But we will easily pardon this presumptuous Etymologist, and diver deep into Interpretations, with others also of the same humor, whose ordinary custom thus to to dally and play with words, is with them esteemed as good as Statute-law, for the most part. There are many sorts of Spiders, and all of them have three joynts a piece in their legs.

Est{que} caput minimum toto quo{que} corpore parvum est, In latere exiles digiti pro crutibus haerent, Latera venter habet, de quo tamen illa remittet Stamina.—

Which may be Englished thus;

Little is their head, likewise the body small, All over is, and fingers thin upon the sides, In stead of legs, out of the bellies flanck do fall: Yet out of which she makes her web to glide.

All Spiders are venomous, but yet some more, and some lesse. Of Spiders that neither do nor can do much harm, some of them are tame, familiar, and domestical, and these be commonly the greatest among the whole pack of them. Others again be meer wilde, living without the house abroad in the open air, which by reason of their ravenous gut, and greedy devouring maw, have pur∣chased to themselves the names of Wolfs, and hunting Spiders. The least sort of these weave no webs at all, but the greater beginneth to make a small and harsh web about hedges nigh unto the earth, spreading and setting the same abroad in the very entry, and in void places neer their lurking holes, their deceitful nets, observing very diligently the stirring of their deceitful webs, and perceiving them moving, though never so lightly, she maketh no stay, but with all speed possible hastneth her self to the place, and whatsoever she there findeth, she seizeth upon as her law∣ful prize.

The most dangerous and hurtful Spiders are called Phalangia, if they bite any one, (for they never strike) their poyson is by experience found to be so perillous, as that there will a notable great swel∣ling immediately follow thereupon. These kindes of venomous Spiders, are of two sundry sorts, for some of them are lesser, and some greater. The lesser sort are very unlike one to another, and of changeable colours, violent, libidinous, hot, stirring, sharp-topped, holding on their pace and way, as it were in jumping manner or leaping-wise: and these I finde to be called by Aristotle in his 11. Book De Animal. Psullas, or Pulices, and Pitheci or Simii. Of some they are called Oribates, because they are usually found among Trees that grow upon Mountains. They are also called Hypodromi, be∣cause they live under the leaves.

The Phalangium or Phalanx Spider, is unknown in Italy (as Pliny saith) and there are found many sorts of them. One sort of them is very like unto a great Pismire, but much bigger, having also a red head, but all other parts are black, speckled, and garnished with many white spots running all alongst their bodies. This formicarian or Pismire-like Phalanx, of Aetius is described to have a body much resembling soot in colour, his neck ash-coloured, and his back glistering, as it were with ma∣ny stars on it. Nicander calleth it Agrostes, and Aetius, Lucos. The Latines tearm it Venator, that is, the Hunter. This stingeth but weakly, without any pain at all, but yet it is somewhat venomous, though not very much. This kinde of Phalanx is often found among Spiders webs, where (af∣ter the fashion of some Hunters) they beguile and intrap Flies, Gnats, and Bees, Gad-flies and Wasps. And (if Lonicerus write no more then may be warranted for truth,) those great Horse-flies or Ox-flies and Brimsees, that in Summer season vex Cattle, and whatsoever they lay their clowtches on, that they hold fast and destroy; and thus live they by taking of booties and preys.

There is no man (I think) so ill advised, that will confesse this to be the same creature which Ari∣stotle calleth Pulex, for the body of that by his description is broad, rowling, round, and the parts about the neck have certain lines or cuts: and besides, about the mouth there appear and seem to bud forth three eminencies or standings out.

There is another sort of Phalangium, called by Nicander, Rox, of Aetius, Ragion, of Aelianus, Rhax, (be∣cause it is so like the kernel or stone that is found in Grapes,) and this kinde of Spider is of a round fi∣gure, black in colour, the body glistering, and round as a ball, with very short stumped feet, yet never∣thelesse of a very swift pace. They have teeth, and their mouth is nigh their belly, and when they stir, they gather up their feet very round. In the description of this Spider, Aetius, Aelianus and Pliny do wholly consent and agree in opinion, and yet Aelianus was a little besides the way, when he set down pod••s macrous, for microus, long feet for short feet; and that this kinde of Spider was only found in Ly∣bia, and not elsewhere.

That kinde of Spider termed of Pliny, Asterion, seemeth to be all one with the former, saving that this is more known by his little white spots made star-wise, and the glistering stripes or rays where∣with his body seemeth to be over-sprinckled. Pliny only mentioneth this, as if Aristotle, Aetius, Galen and Avicen, had never heard of it.

The most venomous and hurtful of all these, is that which Nicander calleth Pedcoros, of colour azure, or bright blew, which hath long, high, and lofty feet on both sides of the body. The Scholiast addeth Dasu and Meteoron, that is, lanuginosum and sublime, soft like cotten or Wooll, and lofty or high, and not sublime lanuginosum, as Lonicerus translateth it. Pliny saith, that this Spider hath a black mossinesse or soft down, although it will scarse sink into my head, that any Spider that is of an azure or blew colour, hath any soft hairs, or woolly substance of a black colour.

There is another kinde of Phalangium Spider called of Nicander, Dysderi, which name is neither to be found in Aristotle, Pliny, nor Aetius, nor yet in any other ancient Author that ever I could read, which some others call, and that very properly, Sphekion, quasi vesparium, because it is so like a red Wasp, saving that it lacketh wings, and this Wasp-like Spider is of a passing deep red colour, and counted far worser then the blew Spider, although the azure or blew Spider only by

touching doth infect with poyson, and will break any Crystal glasse, if it run over it though never so speedily, or do but touch it in glancing wise, as Scaliger beareth witnesse.

There are two sorts of Phalangie Spiders called Tetragnatha, and the worser is that which hath half of his head divided with one white line, and another white line running crosse-wise. There is ano∣ther of these not so hurtful as the former, and this is of an ash-colour, and very white in the hinder-parts. There is also a Spider coloured as this is, that maketh her web by walls sides for the taking of Flies, which as some affirm, hath little or no venom in it at all. Aetius saith, that the Tetragnathus is a kinde of Phalangium, having a broad and whitish body, rough footed, with two swelling or little bunches standing out in the head, the one somewhat broad, the other standing right forth, so that at the first, one would imagine that it had two mouths, and four jaws.

Aelianus in his xvij. Book, chap. 40. saith, that there is great store of these to be found in India about the River Arrhata, where their multitude is so dangerous and mischievous, as that they bring death and destruction to the Citizens and people bordering nigh those places. And Strabo the Geo∣grapher, in his xvj. Book telleth us, that beyond the Lybians and on the Western side of Africk, there is a Countrey left destitute of Inhabitants, having goodly large fields and pastures, being unhabitable by reason of the multitude of Scorpions there bred, and of the Spiders called Tetragnathoi.

There is to be found in Harvest-time amongst Pease, Beans, and other sorts of pulse, (when they are gathered and reaped by the hand) certain small Spiders called Kantharidessi Eikela, in shew like unto Cantharides or Spanish-flies, of a very red and fiery colour, such as we Englishmen call Twinges, by eating or licking up of which, both Oxen and other Beasts do many times die. There is another kinde of Phalangium that breedeth altogether in the pulse, called Ervum, which is like unto Tares, and likewise in the Peach tree, which Nicander and Aetius tearm Cranocalaptes, and Dioscorides nameth it Kephalokroustes, because it is so presumptuous bold as to strike at the hands of travellers by the High-ways, when as either it passeth down in gliding manner by her fine thread, or that she tum∣bleth down without any stay of thread or other support. It is a small creature to see to, keeping on the pace very fearfully, nodding with the head, reeling, and as it were staggering, being great and heavy in the belly, somewhat long of body, and of a greenish colour. It carryeth a sting in the top of her neck, and striking at any, she commonly aimeth at those parts which are about the head. And as Actius saith, En tois phullois tes per seias trepheteis, kai ta ptera echei homoia tais en tais kustais psuchais: That is, they are nourished in Peach tree-leaves, and they have wings like unto Butter-flies that are found amongst Barley.

Whereupon the Scholiast seemeth to insinuate to us, that this kinde of Spider is winged, which no man (as I judge) hath hitherto observed. Ponzettus and Ardoynus do take the Cranocalaptes to be a Tarantula, but herein they are both mistaken, as was Rabbi Moses before them. The Spider called Sclerocephalus, in form differeth but little from the former. It hath a head as hard as a stone, and the lineaments and proportion of the body do much resemble those small creatures which are seen about Lamps lights, or candles in the night time.

There cometh in the last place to be described, the Phalangie Spider of Apulia, commonly known by the name of Tarantula, taking his denomination from the Countrey of Tarentum, where there are found great store and plenty of them. Ferdinandus Ponzettus imagineth, that it hath but only six feet, and Ardoynus is of the same judgement, and further faigneth, that it hath a stretched out tail. Rasis calleth a Torantula, by the name of Sypta, Albucasis, Alsari, Rabbi Moses, Aggonsarpa, Avi∣cen, Sebigi, Doctor Gilbert, Taranta, therein following Ardoynus, which maketh two sorts of Ta∣rantulaes, the one of a brown, the other of a yellow colour and cleer shining, such as are to be found in Egypt. Pliny (as you read a little before) said that the Phalangium was not known in Italy, but in these days they are found throughout all the Southern parts of that Countrey, especially nigh the Sea-shore, as both Harvest-men and Hunters can well testifie by their own wofull ex∣perience.

Ponzettus was much deceived, when in his third Book and xv. chapter entreating of the Scorpion, he expresly affirmeth the Phalanx to be such a venomous flye. It is a vengible and cruel creature (as Alexander ab Alexandro saith) and to be touched, horrible, venomous and pestilent: and most espe∣cially their biting is exceeding venomous in the parching heat of the Summer, but at other seasons of the year not so great. There be many sorts of Spiders found in very cold Countries, but no Pha∣langies at all; or if there be any, yet have they very little poyson in them, and nothing comparable to them of hotter Climates.

All the sorts of Phalangies do lay their Egges in a net or web, (which for the purpose they make very strong and thick,) and sit upon them in very great number, and when their brood is increased to some growth, they kill their dam by their hard embracements, and fling her clean away; and further, casting off al fatherly affection, they many times serve the male with the same sauce, if they can come handsomely by him, for he is a helper to the female in sitting over their egges. They hatch at one time three hundred, as hath been seen by the testimony of Bellonius, in his Book Singul. obser∣vat. chap. 68. The Tatantulaes lie commonly lurking in holes, chinks, and chaps of the earth, and with their teeth they bite and wound at unawares, incircumspect. Mowers, and harvest-folks, and rash Huntsmen, who think of no such matter: and therefore they that are acquainted with their sleights, do wear Boots and Gloves on their hands and legs, for their further defence, so often as they go forth either to hawking, hunting, or to reaping and mowing, or any such like labour in the common fields.

All these Spiders are venomous even naturally, for that is so setled and deeply fastened in them, as it can by no means be eradicated or taken away. Neither suck they this venom and poysonous quality * 1.2 from plants or herbs, as many men think, which in very truth they never so much as tast of, neither do they purchase this venomous complexion and nature from any naughty, hurtful, and malignant quality that is in their meat, by reason their chief food and sustenance is Flyes, Gnats, and Bees; and without question they can suck and draw no such cacochymical juyce from their bodies. If the Formi∣carian (which I call the Pismire-like) Phalangie do bite any man, there will presently follow most fear∣ful accidents: for it bringeth an exceeding great tumor upon the wounded place, the knees are loose and seeble, trembling of the heart, and decay of strength do succeed, and sometimes it induceth death it self.

Nicander saith, that they who are bitten of this kinde of Spider, do fall into such a profound sleep, as that they will never be awaked, for they have and suffer that which Histories report of Cleopatra Queen of Egypt, who to escape the fingers of Augustus, because she would not be brought to Rome in triumph, caused two Serpents called Asps, to be set to her breasts, which did sting her to death, whose nature is to give a heavinesse and sleep, without any shrinking or mark in the skin, only putting forth a gentle sweat out of the face, as if one were in a trance and hard to be awaked.

The Spider called Agrostis, maketh but a small wound with her biting, and in a manner without any pain at all, and no ways deadly, unlesse it be but slightly regarded, or that no care be had for the cure in the beginning. The Phalangie that is called Dusderus, which is fashioned like a Wasp, if he hurt any one by his biting, it causeth the same accidents that the azure or blewish-coloured Spider doth, but yet not altogether so terrible and vehement. And besides, the Dusder-spider with her poyson, bringeth a wasting and pining away of the whole body by degrees, without any great sense.

If a man be poysoned with that kinde of Spider which is found among pulse, and is (as I said be∣fore) like unto Spanish Flies, there will presently arise certain pustules, risings or swellings, much like unto blisters, as if one were scalded with hot water, in which swellings there will commonly be much yellowish matter; besides, the patient is much disquieted, vexed, and too much out of order; the eyes seem to be writhed, deformed, looking asquint on the one side, the tongue faltereth and stam∣mereth, not being able to sound their words, or to pronounce directly: their talk is idle, they wan∣der and rove up and down in great perplexity; their heart being tormented, tossed and turmoiled with an extraordinary kind of furious passion.

The Spider that is found in the pulse, called Ervum, which is very like to Tares or Vetches, pro∣duceth by his venom the same evil effects that the former doth; and if Horses or other beasts do by chance devour any of them, their bodies are so inflamed by means of their unquenchable thir∣stinesse the poyson causeth, that many times they burst asunder in the midst. If the Cranocalaptes wound any man (as Pliny assureth us) it is not long before death it self do succeed. And yet Nicander and Aetius hold the contrary, and would make us believe that his hurt is soon remedyed, without any great ado: yet herein they do consent, that if any be hurt with any Spider of this kinde, there will follow a great pain of the head, coldnesse, swimming and giddinesse of the brain, much disqui∣etnesse of the whole body, and pricking pains of the stomach. But notwithstanding all this (saith Ni∣cander,) the patient is soon remedied, and all these above rehearsed passions quickly appeased and brought to an end.

The Sclerocephalus, as it much resembleth the Cranocalaptes Spider in form and proportion, so in his force, effect and violence they are much alike, causing the same symptomes, accidents and pas∣sions as the former. The wound that the Spider called Ragion inflicteth, is very small, so that a man can hardly discern it with his eyes; but yet if one be hurt therewith, the lower part of the eyes, and the eye-lids wax very red. Besides, the patient feeleth a shivering cold or chilnesse in his loins, with weaknesse and feeblenesse in the knees, yea the whole body is taken with a great quaking cold, and the sinews by means of the violence and rancknesse of the poyson, suffer a Convulsion. The parts serving to generation, are made so impotent and weak, as that they are not able to retain the seed, nor yet to contain their urine, which they void forth much like in colour to a Spiders-web, and they feel the like pain as they do which are stung with Scorpions.

Of the the wounding of the Star-spider feeblenesse and weaknesse followeth, so that one cannot stand upright, the knees buckle, sleep and shaking drousinesse seizeth upon the hurt parts: and yet the worst of all is the blewish Spider, for this bringeth dimnesse of the eye-sight, and vomiting, much like unto Spiders and cobwebs in colour, fainting and swounding, weaknesse of the knees, heavy sleeps, and death it self.

If a man be wounded of the Tetragnathian Spider, the place waxeth whitish, with an intolerable, vehement, and continual pain in it, and the member it self withereth and pineth away even to the very joints. Finally, the whole body by receiving any wholesome sustenance, is nothing at all re∣lieved thereby, yea and after a man hath recovered his health, yet is he neverthelesse disquieted by much watching for a long time after, (as Actius writeth.) Nicander in expresse words con∣fesseth, that the Ash-coloured Tetragnath, doth not by his biting infuse any venom or like hurt. If the speckled Phalangie of Apulia, which is usually known by the name of Tarantula, do bite any one, there will follow divers and contrary accidents and symptomes, according to the various constitution, different complexion, and disposition of the party wounded. For after they are hurt

by the Tarantula, you shall see some of them laugh; others contrariwise to weep, some will clatter out of measure, so that you shall never get them to hold their tongues, and othersome again you shall observe to be as mute as fishes: this man sleepeth continually, and another cannot be brought to any rest at all, but runneth up and down, raging and raving like a mad man.

There be some that imagine themselves to be some great Lords or Kings, and that their authority, Empire and signory, extendeth it self far and wide; and for that cause they will seem to charge others by vertue of their absolute and Kingly authority, and as they tender their favours, and will avoid their displeasure, to see this or that businesse dispatched; and with others again the contrary conceit so much prevaileth, as by a strong imagination they cannot be otherwise disswaded but that they are taken prisoners, that they lie in some deep dungeon or prison, with bolts and shakels about their feet, so many as their legs can bear, or that their neck and feet lie continually in the stocks. You shall see some of them to be cheerful, quick of spirit, and lively, with dancing, swing∣ing and shaking themselves. With others again you shall have nothing but sadnesse, and heavi∣nesse of minde, brown-studies, unaptnesse to do any thing, as if one were astonyed, so that nothing but numnesse, and dulnesse of moving and feeling, seemeth to pinch them, being to see to very senselesse.

In conclusion, as drunkennesse to sundry persons is not all one, but much different, according to the diversity of complexions, and natural constitution of the brain: so neither is the madnesse or frenzy sits of these persons all one that be infected with a Tarantulaes poyson: but some of them are fearful, silent, ever trembling and quaking: and others again are more fool-hardy, rash, pre∣sumptuous clamorous, full of noise, doing nothing else but call and cry out; and some few seem to be very grave, constant and stedfast, that will not alter their purposes for a world of wealth. But let them be affected either with this or that passion, yet this is common to them all, as well to one as to another, that they are generally delighted with musical Instruments, and at their sound or noise will so trip it on the toes dancer-like, applying both their mindes and bodies to dancing and frisk∣ing up and down, that during the time of any musical harmony, they will never leave moving their members and limbs, like a Jackanapes that cannot stand still. And which is more strange, they will use these motions and gestures when they are ready to depart this life, through the lingering stay and vehement cruelty of the poysons operation: and yet for all this, though they be so neer unto death, yet if they hear any musick, they come again to themselves, newly gathering their spirits and strength, and with a greater alacrity, promptnesse of minde and cheer, they foot it as frolickly as ever they did or could have done.

And thus doing and dancing both day and night, without any notorious intermission, and by their continued sweating, the poyson being dispersed into the pores of the skin, and evaporated by insen∣sible transpiration or breathing out, are at length by this means recovered to their former health and state of body. And if the Pipers and Fidlers cease playing with their musick, though never so little a while, before the matter of the poyson be in some part exhausted, then will they make a recidiva∣tion and returning to their former passions and griefs, wirh which they were at first tormented and disquieted. But yet this is the most strange, deserving the greatest admiration of all, that all those persons which are bitten or wounded by any Tarantula, they will dance so well, with such good grace and measure, and sing so sweetly, and withall descant it so finely and tunably, as though they had spent all their life time in some dancing and singing-school.

Neverthelesse, Cardan, contrary to all authority and experience, calleth in doubt and question this point, and at last concludeth that they cannot be restored to health again by musick. Where∣in he doth marvelously repugn and contrary, both Foelix, Platerus, Theodorus, Zuingerus, Andreas, Matthiolus, Bellunensis, Ponzettus, Paracelsus, and many other famous learned men. Truly, a bare contradiction against so great authorities, is far unworthy and unbeseeming a man any thing (though never so little) seen or exercised in Philosophy: much more so great a Philosopher and Physitian as Cardan was. Yet sure I am of the opinion, that Cardan did not erre in Philo∣sophy through ignorance, but having a desire to appear more learned, he did ever bend him∣self to impugn that, which he knew the soundest and best part of men did hold and main∣tain. But this little which I have here spoken, shall serve sufficiently for the discussing of Cardans opinion.

And surely, if the harmonical sound and melody of warlike drums and trumpets, hath cured suri∣ous, mad, and enraged Horses, and mitigated the pain of their legs and hips, as Asclepiades hath writ∣ten, I see nothing to the contrary, but that it may help those persons that are wounded of any Ta∣rantula. The Pope with his Poll-shorn generation, have mustered divers of the Saints together, and have assigned and appointed to each his sundry charge and several office apart, for the cure of sun∣dry diseases. As for example, S. Anthony can heal the burning; S. Rooh the Pestilence, notwithstanding that S. Sebistian hath some skill in it also. Saint Cosmus and Damian are good for all biles and swelling diseases. S. Job for the pocks. S. Appolin for the tooth-ach. S. Petronella can drive away all manner of Agues. And S. Vitus or Vitulus (we may well call him S. Calf) that in times past excelled in the musical Art, doth direct all Dancers, or such as will leap or vault: So that if this Saint be invocated and pa∣cified with musical harmony and melodious sound of instruments, he will be an excellent Apothecary and Doctor for the curation of any that are wounded with a Tarantula. Superstitious people fondly imputing that to the Patron and Proctor sometimes of Musick, which ought rather to be attribu∣ted to Musick it self, and motion of the body.

Dioscorides concerning the common bitings of hurtful Spiders or Phalangies, writeth thus: The accidents (saith he) that do accompany the bitings of Spiders, are these that follow: The wound∣ed place waxeth red, yet doth it not swell nor grow very hot, but it is somewhat moist. If the bo∣dy become cold, there will follow trembling and shaking, the groin and hams do much strout out, and are exceeding distended; there is great provocation to make water, and striving to exonerate nature, they sweat with much difficulty, labour and pain. Besides, the hurt persons are all of a cold sweat, and tears distil from their eyes that they grow dim-sighted therewith. Aetius further addeth, that they can take no rest or sleep, sometimes they have erection of the yard, and the head itcheth, other whiles the eyes and calfs of the legs grow hollow and lank, the belly is stretched by out means of winde, the whole body is puffed up, but in especial the face, they make a maffeling with their mouth, and stammer, so that they cannot distinctly be un∣derstood.

Sometimes they can hardly void urine, they have great pain in the lower parts, the urine that they make is waterish, and as it were full of Spiders webs, the part affected hath a great pricking and swelling, which Dioscorides (as you read a little before) will by no means yeeld to, and it is a little red. Thus far Aetius from whom Paulus Aegineta, Actuarius, Ardoynus and some others differ but a little. In Zacynthus an Isle in the Ionian-Sea, on the West of Peloponesus, if any there be hurt of a Phalangi∣um, they are otherwise and more grievously tormented then in any other place, for there the body groweth stiffe and benummed; besides, it is very weak, trembling and exceeding cold. They suffer also vomitting with a spasm or cramp, and inflamation of the virge, besides an intolerable pain in the ears and soals of their feet. The people there do cure themselves by bathes, into which if any sound man after that do enter to wash himself, or be drawn into the same by any guile or deceitsul means, he will forth-with fall into the same griefs and passions, that the other sick patient endured before he received remedy. And the like to this writeth Dioscorides, in his Chapter of Trifolium as∣phaltites, in these words following.

The decoction (saith he) of the whole plant being used by way of fomentation, bathing or soking the body, ceaseth all those pains which are caused by the biting or stinging of any venomous Ser∣pent: and with the same bathing or fomenting whatsoever ulcerous persons shall use or wash him∣self withall, he will be affected and have the same accidents, as he that hath been bitten of a Ser∣pent.

Galen in his Book De Theriaca ad Pisonem, ascribeth this to miracle, accounting it a thing ex∣ceeding common reason and nature: but I stand in doubt that that Book was never Galens, but ra∣ther fathered upon him by some other man. And yet Aelianus writeth more miraculously, when he affirmeth that this hapneth to some healthy persons, and such as be in good plight and state of body, never so much as making any mention of ulcer or sore. Thus much of the symptomes, ac∣cidents, passions or effects which stick and wait upon those that are hurt by Spiders. And now I come the cure.

The general cure, according to the opinion of Dioscorides, is, that first there must, be scarificati∣on made upon the wounded place, and that often, and cupping glasses must be applyed and fastened with much flame to the part affected. Absyrtus counsel is to make a fumigation with Egge-shels first steeped in water, and then being cast on the coals with Harts-horn or Galbanum, to per∣fume the venomed part therewith. After that to use Scarifications, to let bloud, or to suck the place; or to draw out the venom with Cupping-glasses: or (which is the safest course of them all) to apply an actual Cautery, except the place affected be full of sinews. Lastly, to provoke sweat well, either in bed, covering the patient well with cloathes, or it is better by long and easie walking to procure sweating. In some to attain to the perfect curation, you must work both with inward and outward means, such as here shall be prescribed and set before your eyes: whereof the most choise and approved I have set down for the benefit of the Reader: and first I will begin with Dioscorides.

Inward Medicines out of Dioscorides.

Take of the seeds of Southern-wood, Anise, Dill, the wilde Cicer, of the fruit of the Cedar tree, Plantain and Trifoly, of each a like quantity; beat them to powder by themselves, before you do mix them: The dose is two drams to be taken in Wine. Likewise one dram of the seeds of Tamarisk drunk in Wine, is very effectual. Some use decoction of Chamaepitys, and the green Nuts of the Cy∣press tree in Wine. There be some which praise the tree of Cray-fishes, to be taken with ashes, milk, and Smallage seed; and this medicine experience hath approved and confirmed, for the ceasing of all pains. Lye made of Fig-leaves is drunk with good successe against all bitings of Spiders.

It is good also to take the fruit of the Turpentine tree, Bay-berries, leaves of the balm, and the seeds of all sorts of Carrots: or to drink the juyce of Mirtle-berries, of the Berries of Ivy, or Mulberries, the juyce of Colewort leaves, and of Clives or Goose-grease with Wine or Vinegar. A dram of the leaves of Been-trifoly drunk in Wine, the decoction of a Sparagus, juyce of Sen-green, or any opening juyce is good for the same. Some use with very good successe, the leaves of the herb called Balm with Nitre, and Mallows, boyled both leaf and root, and so taken often in a potion. The leaves of the herb called Phalangium, with his flowers and seeds. The seeds of Nigella also serve to the same end.

Medicines out of Galen.

Take of Aristolochia, of Opium, of either alike much, four drams, of the roots of Pellitory of Spain three drams. Make thereof Trochisces, to the quantity of a Bean. The dose is two Trochisces, with three ounces of pure Wine. The ashes of a Rams hoof tempered with Honey, and drunk with Wine. Remedies of Diophantes against the bitings of Phalangies. Take of Astrologe or Hartwort four drams, of Pellitory of Spain as much, Pepper two drams, Opium one dram, make thereof Tro∣chisces to the quantity of a Bean, and take two of them in a good draught of pure Wine. Another more excellent: Take of the seeds of wilde Rue, Rocket-seed, Styrax, Sulphur vivum, of either alike much six drams, of Castoreum two drams, commix them to make Trochisces, as before, with the bloud of a Crevish. The Dose is one scruple and a half in Wine. Another: Take of Myrrhe, Casto∣reum and Styrax, of either one dram, Opium two drams, of Galbanum three drams, Smallage-seeds and Anise-seeds, of either alike two ounces and a half, Pepper thirty grains; make them up with Wine so much as is sufficient. Another: Take of Myrrhe five ounces, of Spikenard six drams, of the flower of Juncus rotundus two drams and a half, Cassia four drams, Cinamon three drams, white Pepper one dram and a half, Frankincense one dram and half a scruple, Costus one dram, make them up with Attick Honey: The dose is the quantity of a Hasel nut, to be taken either in Mulse or water.

Remedies out of Apollodorus.

Take of wilde Cummin two ounces and a half, the bloud of a Sea Tortoise four drams, the rennet of a Fawn or Hare three drams, the bloud of a Kid four drams; make them up with the best Wine, and reserve it to your use: The dose is the quantity of an Olive, in a draught of the best and purest Wine. Another: Take of the seeds of Trifolium Bituminosum, of round Astrologe, the seeds of wilde Rew, the seeds of Ervum dryed in the Sun, of each alike six drams; work them with Wine and make Trochisces thereof, every one of them weighing four drams: The dose is one Tro∣chisce. Read more in Galen, in his second Book De Antid. where any man may find many for the same purpose, which he had gathered and selected from divers Authors.

Out of Aetius, and Paulus Aegineta.

Take of Sulphur Vivum, and of Galbanum, of either four drams, of bitter Almonds excorticated one dram, of the Gum called Benzoin four drams, temper them in Wine, and after their macera∣tion, work them up with some Honey to be taken nwardly. Being thus prepared, it may likewise be applyed outwardly. Another: Take of Ameos two drams, roots of Flowre-de-luce one dram, or else of Saint Johns wort, or Trisolium Bituminosum, drink them out of Wine. Or take of Anise-seeds, wilde Carrets, Cummin, Nigella Romana, Pepper and Agarick, of either one dram, and drink them. Or take the leaves of the Cypress tree, or the Nuts beaten in Wine, and three quarters of a pinte of the best Oyl, and give it to drink.

And to this end they do prescribe Bay-berries, Scorpion-grasse, wilde Thyme, Calamint, Chame∣pitys, either to be taken by themselves alone, or with Rew and Pepper. Asclepiades used these that follow: Take of the seeds of Angelica and Calamint, of either alike much, and powned together, to be taken in six ounces of Wine oftentimes in a day. Another: Take of Benzoin, the seeds of the wilde Carret, of dry Mints and Spikenard a little quantity, temper them up with Vinegar: The dose is one dram, with pure water and Vinegar mixed together about five or six ounces. Another more excellent: Take Garlick and eat it, and a bath made of the same with Wine, and likewise all those medicines which do heal the bitings of Vipers, are notable in these cases. Paulus Aegineta commend∣eth all these very highly, and so doth he the seeds of Agnus Castus, or the leaves of the white Popler.

Out of Nicander.

Take of the purest Turpentine that distilleth out of the Pine-tree, and eat or drink it: for this is a very effectual medicine, which, as Bellonius reporteth, he hath found to be true by expe∣rience.

Out of Avicenna.

The fruit of the Myrtle tree, Doronicum, Mastick, Assa Faetida, Dedder, With-winde and his root, the Nut of India, and white Bdellium drunk with Wine. Take of the roots of Aristolochy, roots of Floure-de-luce, of Spike, Pellitory of Spain, the seeds of wilde Carrot, black Hellebore, Cum∣min, the roots of the true Daffadil, of the fruit of the Carob-tree, the leaves of Dates, tops of Pomgranates, Cinamon, of the juyce of Rue, Cray-fishes, Styrax, Opium, and Carpobalsa∣mum, of either alike, one ounce, all these being powdered, make thereof Trochisces the weight of one dram or four scruples, which is their dose: Take also in Wine the decoction of

the seeds of Trifolium Bituminosum, Cypresse-nuts, and the seeds of Smallage. Besides let him drink the grains or fruit of the Pine-tree, Cumin of Aethiopia, the leaves and rinde of the Palne-tree, the seeds of Siler Montanum, black and wilde Cicers, the seeds of Nigella, Southern-wood and Dill, Astrologe or Hartwort, the fruit of the Tamarisk-tree: for all these are very effectuall to cure the hurts that come by biting of any venomous Spider.

The juice also of wilde Lettice and House-leek is excellent. The decoction of Cypresse-nuts be∣ing boyled, especially with Cynamon, the broth of Crai-fishes, and of Goose-flesh, and likewise the decoction of the roots of Asparagus in wine and water. Another. Take of Astrologe and Cu∣min of each three drams to be drunk in warm water: an excellent and approved Antidote. Take of the seeds of Git or Nigella ten drams, Cumin-seed, Daucus-seed (or wilde Carret) of either five drams, Spikenard, Bay-berries, round Aristolochie, Carpobalsamum, Cinamon, roots of Gentian, seeds of the Mountain, Siler, and Smallage, of every one alike two drams, make a Confection with Honey. The dose is the quantity of a Nut with old Wine. A confection of Assa. Take of Assa fet∣da, Myrrhe, and leaves of Rue, of every one alike quantity, temper them together with Honey. The common dose is one dram, or two at the most in Wine.

Certain other selected Medicines out of Absyrtus, Albucasis, Lullus, Rhazes and Ponzettus.

Take of white Pepper thirty grains, drink it often in a draught of old Wine. Give also the herb Thyme in Wine. Absyrtus. Let him drink after it a spoonfull of Wine distilled with Balm. Lul∣lus. Take of drie Rue, of Costus, Horsemint, Pellitory of Spain, Cardamomum, of each alike, of Assa faetida a fourth part, Honey so much as is sufficient, commixe them. The dose is the quantity of a Hasel-nut in drink. Albucasis. The brain of a Hen drunk with a little Pepper out of sweet Wine or Vinegar and water mixed together.

A notable Treacle or Antidote against the bitings of Phalangies or venemous Spiders. Take of Tartarum six drams, of yellow Sulphur eight drams, Rue-seeds three drams, Castoreum and Rocket-seed, of either two drams, with the bloud of a Sea-tortoise, make an Opiate. The dose is two drams to be taken in Wine. Another. Take of Pellitory of Spain, and the root of the round Ari∣stolochie of each one part, of white Pepper half a part, Horehound four parts, temper them up with Honey, the dose that is to be given is one dram. Another. Take of the roots of Capers, the roots of long Aristolochie or Hartwort, Bay-berries, roots of Gentian, of each a like quanti∣ty to be taken in Wine, or let him drink Diassa with sweet strong Wine, Cumin, and the seeds of Agnus Castus. Another. Take of the seeds of Nigella ten drams, of Daucus and Cumin-seeds, of each alike five drams, seeds of wilde Rue, and Cypresse-nuts, of either three drams, Spikenard, Bay-berries, round Astrologe, Carpobalsamum, Cynamon, the root of Gentian, seeds of Trifolium Bi∣tuminosum, and of Smallage-seed, of either two drams, make a Confection with Honey so much as is sufficient. Give the quantity of a Nut with old Wine. Rhazes.

Out of Plny, Celsus, and Scaliger.

It is good to give five Pismires to them that are bitten of any Phalangium, or the seeds of Nigella Romana one dram, or Mulberries with Hypocistis and Honey. There is a secret vertue and hidden quality in the root of Parsley, and of wilde Rue, peculiarly against those hurts that Spiders infect by their venome. The bloud of a Land-tortoyse, the juice of Origanum, the root of Behen Album, Vervain, Cinquefoil, all the sorts of Sengreen, Cypresse-roots, the Ivy, of Ivy-roots being taken with some sweet Wine, or water and Vinegar mixed and boyled together, are very Speciall in this grief. Likewise two drams of Castoreum to provoke vomiting being relented in some mulse. Apollo∣dorus one of the Disciples of Democritus, saith, there is an herb called Crocides, which if any Pha∣langium or other poysonous Spider do but touch, presently they fall down dead, and their poyson is so dulled and weakned as it can do no hurt. The leaves of the Bul-rush or Mat-rush which are next to the root being eaten, are found to give much help. Pliny. Take of Myrrhe, of Ʋna Tami∣nea, which is the berry of the herb called Ampelos Agria, being a kinde of Bryony, which windeth it self about trees and hedges like a vine, of some called our Ladies seal, of either alike, and drink them in three quarters of a pinte of sod Wine. Item, the roots of Radish or of Darnell taken in Wine is very effectuall. Celsus. But the excellentest Antidote of all other is that which Scaliger de∣scribeth, whom for his singular learning and deep conceit, I may tearm Nostri orbis et seculi ornamen∣tum: The form whereof in this place I will prescribe you. Take of the true and round Aristolochia, and of the best Mithridate, ••of either one ounce, Terra Sigillata half an ounce, of those Flies which are found to live in the flower of the herb called Napellus, in number eighteen, juice of Citrons so much as is sufficient, mixe them all together. For against this mischief of Spiders, or against any other shrewd turns, grievances, or bitings of any Serpents whatsoever Art, as yet never found out so effectuall a remedy, or so notable an Alexipharmacall. Thus far Scaliger. The juice of Apples being drunk, and Endive, are the proper Bezoar against the venom of a Phalangie. Petrus de Albano. Thus much of inward: Now will I proceed to generall outward medicaments and applications. Five Spiders putrefied in common Oyl, and applyed outwardly to the affected place, are very good. Ashes made of the dung of draught beasts tempered with Vinegar, and used as an oyntment, or in stead of Vinegar, water and Vinegar boyled together, and applyed as before, are proved to be

singular. Take of Vinegar three pintes and a half, Sulphur vivum two ounces, mixe them, and fo∣ment, bath, or soke the wounded part with a Spunge dipped in the liquor, or if the pain be a little asswaged with the fomentation, then wash the place with a good quantity of Sea-water.

Some hold opinion that Achates (which is a precious stone, wherein are represented divers forms, whereof some have the nine masts, some of Venus, &c. will heal all bitings of Phalangies, and for this cause being brought out of India it is held at a very deer rate in this Countrey. Pliny. Ashes made of fig-tree-leaves, adding to them some salt and wine. The roots of the wilde Panax being beaten to powder, Aristolochie, and Barley-meal kneaded together and wrought up with Vinegar. Water with Honey and salt applyed outwardly for a fomentation. The decoction of the hearb Balm, o•• the leaves of it being brought to the form of a Pultesse, and applyed: but we must not forget to use warm bathes, and sometimes to the place agrieved. Pliny. Cut the veins that appear under the tongue, rubbing and chafing the swelled places with salt and good store of Vinegar: then cause the patient to sweat carefully and warily for fear of cold. Vigetius. Theophrastus saith, that practi∣tioners do highly commend the root of Panax Chironia. Moysten the wound with Oyl, Garlick bruised, Knot-grasse or Barley-meal, and Bay-leaves with Wine, or with the dregs or Lees of wine, or wilde Rue applyed in manner of a Cataplasm to the wounded place. Nonus. Take of Sulphur Vi∣vum, Galbanum, of each alike, four drams and a half, of Euforbium half a dram, Hasel-nuts excorti∣cated two drams, dissolve them, and with wine make towards the curation. Flies beaten to pow∣der and applyed upon the place affected. The fish called a Barble cureth the bitings of any vene∣mous Spider, if being raw it be slit asunder in the middest, and so applyed (as Galen saith) Anoynt the whole body with a liquid Cerote, and foment the place affected with Oyl wherein Trifolium Bituminosum hath been infused, or bathe it often with Sponges soked in warm Vinegar: then pre∣pare and make ready Cataplasmes of these Ingredients following; that is, of Knot-grasse, Stala Caeli, called Salomons seal, Leeks, Cheesill or Bran decocted in Vinegar, Barley-meal and Bay-ber∣ries, and the leaves boyled in Wine and Honey. Some do also make Cataplasmes of Rue or herb-grace, and Goats-dung tempered with Wine, Cypresse, Marjoram and wilde Rue with Vinegar. An emplaster of Asclepiades. Take of the seeds of wilde Rue, and Rocket-seeds, Stavesakre, Rose∣mary seeds, Agnus Castus, Apples and Nuts, or in stead of these two, of the leaves of the Cypresse-tree, of each alike, beat and temper them all together with Vinegar and Honey. Aetius. Apply the decoction of Lupines upon the affected place, the eschar being first removed, then anoynt it in the warm Sun-shine, or against the fire with the fat of a Goose tempered with wilde Rue and Oyl, or else of the pap of Barley, and the broth of Lupines make a Cataplasm. Oribasius. The Fil∣berd-nut that groweth in India, healeth the biting of these Phalangies. Avicenna. Goats dung dissol∣ved with other convenient Cataplasmes, and Oyl of Worm-wood, and the juice of Figs helpeth much. Kiranides. Apply oftentimes a cold piece of iron to the place. Petrus de Albano. Foment the place very often with the juice of the herb Plantane. Hildegardis.

The artificiall Oyl of Balm is singular. Euonymus. A fomentation made of the leaves and stalks of Imperatoria called Masterwort, and continued a good space: or else Vervain bruised and stamp∣ed, the juice being taken in wine, and further, the herb outwardly applyed, is much commended of Turneiser. Beat and stamp herb grace with Garlick and some Oyl, and apply it outwardly, Cel∣sus. There be but a few particular cures for the bitings of Spiders that Physitians mention; yet some they doe, although the generall be most effectuall. Pliny against the biting of the Formicarian or Pis∣mire-lik Phalangie, that hath a red head, commendeth much another Phalangie of the same kinde, only to be shewed to the wounded patient to look upon, and to be kept for the same purpose, though the Spider be found dead. Also a young Weasel dryed, and the belly thereof stuffed with Coriander-seed, and so kept till it be very old and stale, and drunk in Wine, being first beaten to powder, is likewise good for the same intention.

There is a certain little beast called Ichneumon, of some it is called Mus Pharaonis, Pharoes Mouse, and for the enmity unto Serpents, it is called Ophiomachus, (as Bellonius reporteth) being bruised and applyed to the biting of any Wasp-like Phalangie, doth utterly take away the venome of them. It often entreth and searcheth out the seats and holes of venemous Spiders and Phalangies, and if it finde any of them, she haleth and tuggeth them clean away as a Pismire doth a small grain of Corn: and if the Phalangie offer any resistance, the Ichneumon sparing no labour, pulleth her the contrary way: and by this strugling and striving, sometimes it so falleth out that the Ichneumon is wearied, and then she breatheth a little, and gathering new strength and courage, setteth again upon the Phalangie with a fresh assault, and woundeth her many times, so that at length she carrieth her to her own lodging there to be devoured.

If the Tarantula have hurt any one, the best remedy is to stirre and exercise the body continually without any intermission, whereas in all hurts that are caused by any other Spiders, rest and quiet∣nesse are the best means (as Celsus affirmeth.) But their Antidote is musick and singing.

Christophorus de honestis counselleth to take forthwith Theriaca Andromachi without any delay. He also adviseth to take Butter tempered with Honey, and the root of Saffron in Wine. His pro∣per Bezoar (saith he) or the green berries or seeds of the Lentisk-tree. Ponzettus in his book De vene∣nis, adviseth to take ten grains of the Lentisk-tree in Milk, or an ounce and a half of the juice of Mullberry-leaves.

In the increase of the grief, he cureth them with Agarick, or the white Vine: and after much sweating, they are to be comforted and refreshed or strengthned with cold Medicines, as with the

water of Popy, and the like (Merula saith) they are to be remedied with the stone of Musicall In∣struments, dancing, singing and colours: concerning the three former I will not contend, but how they should receive any part of help or health from viewing of any colours I do not well under∣stand; considering that the eye-sight of all those that are bitten of a Taramula, is quite taken away, or they see but obscurely, as being mightily deceived in their objects.

Andreas Matthiolus in his Commentaries, upon the sixth book of Dioscorides, Chap. 40. reporteth a very strange story of a certain Hermit, his old friend and acquaintance dwelling neer unto Rome, who cured all those who were bitten or hurt of any venemous Worms or Serpents, which in this last place I will insert (although some may say that it is needlesse, and belongeth not at all to this discourse in hand, or else will not beleeve it.) For when as any of the inhabitants in those parts were wounded of any poysonous Serpent, by a Messenger forthwith signified the same to the old Hermit; who by and by demanded of the Messenger, whether he could be content to take or drink any Medicine in stead of the sick patient; which if the other assented to, promising to take it, the Hermit commanded him without any further delay, to pull off his right foot shooe, and to set his foot on the earth, drawing a line round about the foot with his knife: then he willed him to take away his foot, and within the space of the line so marked, he writ or engraved these words following Caro Caruze, sanum reduce, reputata sanum, Emanuel paracletus. Then immediately he pared away the earth with the same whittle, so that all the Characters were quite defaced, putting the same earth into a little earthen vessell full of water, letting it there so long remain, untill the earth sunk to the bottom: Lastly, he strained the water with a piece of the Messengers shirt, or some other linnen that he wore next to his skin, and being signed with the sign of the Crosse, gave it him to drink: But surely (saith Matthiolus) it was marvellous strange, and a wonderfull thing to consider, how that the wounded patient was perfectly healed, even at that very hour and moment of time, that the Messenger took the aforesaid potion of the Hermit, as it is plainly known unto my self, and to all the people that dwell round about in that Territory or Shire. And thus much of this Heremiticall curation by the way.

Now will I come into my path again. A man may finde a great sort both of these, and the like remedies both in Pliny, Dioscorides, and other, concerning the hurts of Spiders, but I think I have been a little too redious, and you may imagine that I do nothing but Ta arachina hyphainein, Aranea∣rum telas texere: That is, in a frivolous matter and of small moment spend infinite and curious la∣bour; so that I had more need to crave pardon for my long discourse about this subject, where∣in though many things may want to the satisfaction of an afflicted and searching head, yet I am sure here is enough to warrant the discharge of my good will, and to repell the censure of the scrupulous;

—Nunc imus ad illam Artificem, mens nostra cui est conformis, Arachnem, Quae medio tenerae residens in stamine telae Qua serit e••rus atrox, trepidot volitantibus auris Tangitur, utque sono vagus illi byssus ab aestro.

In English thus;

Ʋnto Arachne skilfull Mistresse let us come, To whom conformed seems the minde of man, She sits in middest of web, her tender feet upon: Whiles she is ••ost with East-winde now and than, She trembleth at the noyse of ratling winds, As when the humming Flie hard wagging finds.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Doctor Bon∣hams discourse of Spiders.
• * 1.2

  The signes to know when one is bitten of any Phalaangie and the effects of the same.