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 ...

A GENERAL TREATISE OF SERPENTS, DIVINE, MORAL, and NATƲRAL.

Of the Creation and first Beginning of SERPENTS.

THere is no Man that can justly take exception that this History of Serpents be∣ginneth at their Creation: for seeing our purpose is, to set forth the works of GOD, by which as by a clear glass, he endevoureth to disperse and distri∣bute the knowledge of his Majesty, Omnipotency, Wisdom and Goodness, to the whole race of Mankinde, it seemeth most proper that the first stone of this building, laid in the foundation be fetched from the Creation: and the rather, because some Naturalists (especially amongst the ancient Heathen) have taken the Original of these venomous Beasts, to be of the earth, without all respect of Divine and Primary Creation. And hereunto some Hereticks, as * 1.1 the Manichees, and Marcionites, have also subscribed, though not directly, for they account the Cre∣ation of these venomous and all hurtful Beasts an unworthy work for the good GOD, because they could never see any good use of such creatures in the World.

Yet we know the blessed Trinity created the whole frame of this visible World by it self, and for * 1.2 good, reasonable, and necessary causes, framed both the beneficial and hurtful Creatures, either for a Physical or Metaphysical end. Therefore it is most certain, that if we consider the outward parts of these Creatures endued with life, no man nor nature could begin and make them, but the first Essence or Fountain of life: and if we can be brought to acknowledge a difference betwixt our shallow capacity, and the deep wisdom of God, it may necessarily follow by an unavoidable sequel, that their uses and ends were good, although in the barrenness of our understanding, we cannot conceive or learn them. But I purpose not to follow these things Philosophically by ar∣guments, but rather Divinely by evident demonstration of the things themselves. And first of all, it appeareth, Gen. 1. 24. that God brought out of the earth all creeping things after their kinde: And lest that any man should doubt, that under the general name of creeping things, Ser∣pents, and other venomous Beasts, were not intelligibly enough expressed, it is added Chap. 3. 1. That the Serpent was more subtile then all the Beasts of the field which God had made. The Prophet David also, Psal. 148. 7. among other things which are exhorted by the Prophet to praise their Creator, there are named Dragons, which are the greatest kinde of Serpents. Unto this also alluded S. James, ch. 3. 7. saying: That the whole nature of Beasts, and of Birds, of creeping things and things in the Sea i•• tame•• by the nature of Man: for Man, which is next unto God, hath authority and power, to rule over all his works, and therefore over Serpents.

And herein it is fit to shew, what wonders men have wrought upon Serpents, taming and de∣stroying * 1.3 them rather like Worms and Beasts, no ways enemies to mankinde, but friendly, and en∣dued with sociable respect, or else as weaklings commanded by a superior power. Such an one was Atyr a notable Inchanter, who by touching any Serpent brought it into a deadly sleep: according to these verses;

Nec non Serpentes diro exarmare veneno, Doctus Atyr: tactuque graves sepire chelydros.

In English thus;

The cunning Atyr, Serpents fierce, of poyson did disarm, And Water-snakes to deadly sleep, by touching he did charm.

Alvisius Cadamustus, in his description of the new World, telleth an excellent history of a Ligu∣rian young man, being among the Negroes travelling in Africk, whereby he endevoureth to prove, how ordinary and familiar it is to them, to take and charm Serpents, according to the verse of the Poet:

Frigidus inpratis cantando rumpitur anguis.

That is,

The cold-earth-snake in Medows green, By singing, broke in pieces may be seen.

The young man being in Africk among the Negroes, and lodged in the house of a Nephew to the Prince of Budoniel, when he was taking himself to his rest, suddenly awaked by the hearing the un∣wonted noise of the hissing of innumerable sorts of Serpents; whereat while he wondred, and be∣ing in some terror, he heard his Host (the Princes Nephew) to make himself ready to go out of the doores, (for he had called up his servants to saddle his Camels:) the young man demanded of him the cause, why he would go out of doores now so late in the dark night? to whom he answered, I am to go a little way, but I will return again very speedily: and so he went, and with a charm qui∣eted the Serpents, and drove them all away, returning again with greater speed then the Lig••••ian young man his guess expected. And when he had returned, he asked his guess if he did not hear the immoderate hissing of the Serpents? and he answered, that he had heard them to his great terrour: Then the Princes Nephew (who was called Bisboror) replyed, saying; they were Serpents which had beset the house, and would have destroyed all their Cattel and Herds, except he had gone forth to drive them away by a charm, which was very common and ordinary in those parts, wherein were abundance of very hurtful Serpents.

The Ligurian young man hearing him say so, marvailed above measure, and said, that this thing was so rare and miraculous, that scarsely Christians would believe it. The Negro thought it as strange that the young man should be ignorant hereof, and therefore told him, that their Prince could work more strange things by a charm which he had, and that this and such like were small, vulgar, and not to be accounted miraculous. For when he is to use any strong poyson upon present necessity, to put any man to death, he putteth some venom upon a sword, or other piece of Armor, and then making a large round circle, by his charm compelleth many Serpents to come within that circle, he himself standing amongst them, and observing the most venomous of them all so assem∣bled, which he thinketh to contain the strongest poyson, killeth him, and causeth the residue to de∣part away presently; then out the dead Serpent he taketh away the poyson, and mixeth it with the seed of a certain vulgar tree, and therewithal anointeth his dart, arrow, or swords point, whereby is caused present death, if it give the body of a man but a very small wound, even to the breaking of the skin, or drawing of the bloud. And the said Negro did earnestly perswade the young man to see an experiment hereof, promising to shew all as he had related, but the Ligurian being more willing to hear such things told, then bold to attempt the trial, told him, that he was not willing to see any such experiment. And by this it appeareth, that all the Negroes are addicted to Incantations, which never have any approbation from GOD, except against Serpents, which I cannot very easily be brought to believe.

And seeing I have entered into this passage of Charming, being (no doubt) an invention of Man, and therefore argueth his power to tame these venomous Beasts, according to the former saying of Saint James, although I condemn such courses utterly, yet it is lawful to prosecute the same, seeing the holy Ghost, Psalm 58. vers. 4, 5. affirmeth a practise against Serpents, a dexterity and ripeness in that practise, and yet an impossibility to affect any good, except the voyce of the Charmer come to the ear of the Adder: For thus he writeth; Their poyson is like the poyson of a Serpent, like a de••f A••der that stoppeth his ear. 5. Which heareth not with the voyce of the Inchanter, though he be most expert in cunning▪ Upon which words Saint Augustine, Saint Jerom, and Cassidorus writing, say; that when the Charmer cometh to Inchant or Charm, then they lay one of their ears to the earth so close, as it may not re∣ceive the sound, and their other ear they stop with their tail. I will therefore yet add somewhat more of this taming of Serpent.

I have heard a Gentleman of singular learning, and once my worshipful good friend, and dayly * 1.4 encourager unto all good labours, report divers times very credibly, upon his own knowledge and eye-sight, that being at Padua in Italy, he saw a certain Quack-salver, or Mountebanck upon a stage, pull a Viper out of a box, and suffered the said Viper to bite his flesh, to the great admiration of all the beholders, receiving thereby no danger at all. Afterward he put off his doublet and shirt, and shewed upon his right arm a very great unwonted blew vein, standing beyond the common course of nature; and he said, that he was of the linage of Saint Paul, and so were all other that had such veins, and that therefore (by special vertue to that Family given from above) no Viper nor Serpent could ever annoy or poyson them: but withall, the fellow drank a certain compound water, or an∣tidote, for fear of the worst, and so at one time vented both his superstitious hypocrisie, and also much of his Antidote to his great advantage.

But I have since that time also read, in Matthiolus his Commentaries upon the sixth Book of Dioscorides, that there were wont to be many such Juglers in Italy, carrying in their bosomes living Serpents, of whose fraudulent Impostures he speaketh in this sort. They take Serpents in the

[illustration]

Winter time, when they grow dead and stiffe through cold, & yet for their better defence against their venomous biting, they defend themselves by a certain experimental unguent, known to be practised in this sport, made of the Oyl pressed out of wilde Radish, the roots of Dragonwort, the juyce of Daffodil, the brain of a Hare, the leaves of Sabine, springs of Bay, and some other few things thereunto added. Assoon as they have taken them, they instantly all to spet upon their heads, for by reason of a secret antipathy in Nature, they grow very dull thereby, and lay aside the force and rage of venom; for the spettle of a Man, is of a clean contrary operation to their poyson. And when afterward they make ostentation hereof in the Market, or publique Stage, they suffer them to bite their own flesh: but first of all, they offer them a piece of hard flesh, whereupon they bite to cleanse their teeth from all spawn and spume of venom, or else sometime pull forth the little bags of poyson, which inhere in their chaps, and under their tongues, so as they are never more repleat or filled again: And by this deceit they deceive the world where ever they come, giving forth that they are of the linage of Saint Paul, who cast a Viper off from his hands, as we read in the holy Scri∣pture.

It was an invention of ancient time among the wise Magitians, to make a pipe of the skins of Cats legs, and therewithall to drive away Serpents; by which it appeareth, that the soveraignty of Man over Serpents, was given by GOD at the beginning, and was not lost, but continued after the fall of man, (although the hand that should rule be much weaker) and practised by the most barbarous of the world, necessity of the defence forcing a violence and hatred, betwixt the Serpent and the Womans seed. For this cause we read of the seaven daughters of Atlas, whereof one was cal∣led Hyas, whose daily exercise was hunting of venomous Beasts, and from her the Hyades had her de∣nomination. And for a conclusion of this Argument, I will adde this one story more out of Aelianus. When Thonis the King of Egypt had received of Menelaus, Helen to be safely kept, whiles he tra∣velled through Aethiopia, it hapned that the King fell in love with her beauty, & oftentimes endevour∣ed by violence to ravish her; then, it is also said, that Helen, to turn away the Kings unlawful lust, ope∣ned all the matter to. Polydamna the wife of Thonis, who instantly fearing her own estate, lest that in time to come, fair Helen should deprive her of her husbands love, banished her into the Island of Pharus, which was full of all manner of Serpents, and yet taking pity on her for her simplicity, gave her a certain herb, whereby she drove away all Serpents. For (it is said) when the Ser∣pents and venomous Beasts do but smell the same herb, they instantly hide their heads in the earth. Helen coming into that Island planted the same there, and was therefore called by the Inhabi∣tants after her own name Helenium, which the skilful Herborists at this day affirm to grow in Pharus.

Unto this discourse of the taming of Serpents, I may add yet more strange things, if any thing be strange in the nature of this world. And those are some Histories of the familiarity of Men, Women and Serpents. Alexander was thought to be begotten of a Serpent, for it is said, that on * 1.5 a time there was found a great Serpent upon his Mother Olympia as she was sleeping; and some say (for the honour both of the Mother and the Son) that this Serpent was Jupiter, turned into the likeness of a Serpent, as we read he changed himself into many other shapes. And the like story * 1.6 unto this, is alledged of Soipio Africanus his mother, who long time remained barren without the fruit of the womb, insomuch as P. Scipio her husband utterly despaired of posterity. It hapned one day, as she was in her bed, her husband being absent, there came a great Snake and lay beside her, even in the presence of the servants and family, who being mightily astonished thereat, cryed out with loud voyces for fear, whereat the woman awaked, and the Snake slid away invisibly. P. Sci∣pio hearing this report at his return home, went to the Wizards to understand the secret or signifi∣cation of this prodigie: who making a sacrifice, gave answer that it betokened prolification, or birth of children, and thereupon followed the birth of Scipio Africanus. * 1.7

We read also in Plutarch of certain Serpents, lovers of young Virgins, who after they were taken and insnared, shewed all manner of lustful, vitious, and amorous gestures of uncleanness and car∣nality; and by name, there was one that was in love with one Aetolia a Virgin, who did accustom to come unto her in the night time, sliding gently all over her body never harming her, but 〈…〉〈…〉one glad of such acquaintance, tarryed with her in that dalliance till the morning, and then would de∣part away of his own accord: the which thing being made manifest unto the Guardians and Tutors * 1.8 of the Virgin, they removed her unto another Town. The Serpent missing his love, sought her up and down three or four days, and at last met her by chance, and then he saluted her not as he was wont, with fawning, and gentle sliding, but fierce assaulted her with grim and austere counte∣nance, flying to her hands, and binding them with the spire of his body fast to her sides, did softly with his tail beat upon her backer parts. Whereby was collected, some token of his chastisement un∣to her, who had wronged such a Lover with her wilful absence and disappointment.

It is also reported by Aelianus, that Egemon in his verses, writeth of one Aleva a Thessalian, who feed∣ing his Oxen in Thessaly, near the Fountain Haemonius, there fell in love with him a Serpent of exceeding bigness and quantity, and the same would come unto him, and softly lick his face and golden hair, without doing him any manner of hurt at all.

These, and such like things do evidently prove, that Serpents are not only involuntarily tamed by Men, but also willingly keep quarter with them, yeelding to the first Ordinance of the Creator, that made them subjects and vassals to men. And thus much shall suffice to have spoken in this place, concerning the first cteation of Serpents.

Of the natural Generation of SERPENTS, and their several Originals.

IT being thus cleared, that Serpents were at the beginning created by GOD, and are ruled by men, it now followeth, that we should in the next place talk of the matter of their beginning, and the means of their continuance ever since their Creation.

First therefore it is most plain in Genesis, that the Earth (by the vertue of the Word of GOD) did produce all Creeping things, and among them Serpents: but since that time, they have engendered both naturally, and also prodigiously.

As concerning their constitution, it is held to be most cold, above all other living Creatures; * 1.9 and therefore Pliny writeth, that they have neither heat, nor bloud, nor sweat. Hereunto subscri∣beth Galen and Rasis; yet Avicen seemeth to affirm the contrary. Mercurial decideth this controversie, and proveth that Serpents are extreamly cold, and their bodies outwardly moist. First, because those which are stung and poysoned by Serpents, are oppressed with an unnatural cold, which over∣cometh natural heat, and distendeth all their parts, vexing them intolerably. Secondly, there can be assigned no other reason why these Creatures hide themselves four moneths in the year, but only their natural cold, making them so tender, as they are altogether unfit to endure any external fri∣gidity. Thirdly, if a man take a Snake or a Serpent into his handling in the midst of Summer, and warmest part of the year, yet shall he perceive that they are cold in a palpable manner being alive, which is not a quality competible to any other creature. Fourthly, seeing that bloud is the pro∣per and native seat of all heat in natural living bodies, Serpents having a very small quantity of bloud, must also have a smaller proportion of heat: and therefore it followeth unavoidably, that the eminency of their temperament is cold in the highest degree, above all other living Creatures. And that their bodies be outwardly moist, it appeareth (saith Isidorus) by this, that when they slide along upon the Earth, (which way soever they go) they leave behinde them in their train or path a slimy humour.

By this therefore it is confirmed, that they are of the Earth and of the Water, as afterward we shall shew in the description of their kindes. But yet there are prodigious beginnings of Serpents, * 1.10 whereof some seem to be true, and other to be fabulous. The first sort are those which Pliny affirm∣eth to be engendred of the marrow in the back-bone of a man, and that indifferently, out of the dead bodies of good and evill men. Yet some more modest, thinking it unreasonable, that the rem∣nants of a good meek man, should beget or be turned into so barbarous, venomous, and cruel a na∣ture; rather taking it for granted, that peace and quietness is the reward of such persons, attribute these beginnings or alterations to the bodies of wicked men, as a just deserved punishment of their former evils, that the reversions of their bodies should after death turn into Serpents, whom they resembled being alive in the venomous fraud of their spirits. Of this Ovid speaketh.

Sunt quae cum clauso putrefacta est Spina sepulchro, Mutari credunt humanas angue medullas.

Which may be thus Englished,

Some think the putrid back-bone in the grave rack'd, Or marrow chang'd, the shape of Snakes to take.

In Egypt, as Frogs and Mice are engendred by showres of rain, so also are Serpents: And Avicen * 1.11 saith, that the longest hairs of women are easily turned into Serpents. Nicander dreameth, that all venomous Beasts are engendred of the bloud of the Titans or Giants. Acusilaus, of the bloud of Typhon. Apollonius Rhodius, of the drops of bloud which do distil from Gorgons. Virgilius saith, that dung being laid in a hollow place, subject to receive moisture, engendereth Serpents, Of the Gor∣gons drops, Ovid writeth thus;

Cumque super Lybicas victor penderet arenas, Gorgonei capitis guttae cecidere cruentae, Quas humus exceptas, varios animavit in angues, Ʋnde frequens illa est infestaque terra colubris.

Which may thus be Englished:

—And as he over flew The Lybick sands, the drops of bloud that from the head did sew Of Gorgon being new cut off, upon the ground did fall, Which taking them, and as it were conceiving them withall, Engendred sundry Snakes and Worms: by means wbereof that Clime Did swarm with Serpents ever since▪ to this same present time.

But most strange of all other, are the succeeding Narrations. For it is reported that when L. Sci∣pio, and C. Norbanus were Consuls, that the Mother of Clusius in Hetruria, brought forth a living Ser∣pent in stead of a childe, and the said Serpent by the command of the Wizards was cast into a River, nevertheless it would not drown, but swimmed against the stream. And Pliny saith, that at the be∣ginning of the Marsyck war, there was a maid-servant that brought forth another Serpent. And

Faustina the Empress dreamed that she brought forth Serpents, when she was with childe of Commo∣dus * 1.12 and Antoninus, and one of these Serpents seemed more fierce then the other, which proved alle∣gorically true: for afterward Commodus was so voluptuous and tyrannous, that he seemed like a Serpent to be born for nothing, but for the destruction of mankinde.

In the year of our Lord 1551. there was a little Latine Book printed at Vienna, wherein was con∣tained this History following. In this Summer (saith the Book) about S. Margarites day, there hap∣pened most rare and admirable accidents: for near a Village called Zichsa, by the River Theose in Hungaria, there were many Serpents and Lisards bred in the bodies of men, very like to such as are bred in the earth, whereupon they fell into exquisite torments: and there dyed of that calamity, about three thousand, and some of the bodies being laid against the Sun gaping, the Serpents came forth of their mouths, and suddenly entred into their bellies again. Amongst other, there was a certain Noblemans daughter which dyed of that malady, and when she was dis∣sected or ripped, there were found in her body two great Serpents. These things seem to be mi∣raculous, and above the order of Nature: yet credible, because in our experience in England, there have been Worms like Serpents found in the bodies of men, whereof some have been ejected the parties being alive, and other when as the parties were dead. But that these beginnings of Ser∣pents being unnatural, are Divine and sent from God as scourges, it may appear by another notable History, recorded in the aforenamed Book, both in the same year, and in the same Countrey.

There was (saith mine Author) found in a mow or ryck of Corn, almost as many Snakes, Adders, and other Serpents, as there were sheafs, so as no one sheaf could be removed, but there presently appeared a heap of ugly and fierce Serpents. The Countrey-men determined to set fire upon the Barn, and so attempted to do, but in vain, for the straw would take no fire, although they labored with all their wit and policy to burn them up. At last, there appeared unto them at the top of the heap a huge great Serpent, which lifting up his head spake with mans voice to the Countrey-men, saying: Cease to prosecute your devise, for you shall not be able to accomplish our burning, for we were not bred by Nature, neither came we hither of our own accord, but were sent by God to take vengeance on the sins of men. And thus much for the true and natural beginnings of Serpents.

Now we read in read in holy Scripture, that the rod of Moses was turned into a Serpent by divine miracle, whereby he was assured of the power that God would give him to deliver his people Israel out of Egypt, which land abounding with Serpents, both natural bred in the earth, and moral, such are crafty and politick Princes and people: yet Moses should take them as he did his Serpent by the tail, and cause them to bend unto him like as it were a wand, or else some other little walking staffe: and also that his power should be unresistible, because his Serpent devoured others. The Magitians or Sorcerers, (as Jannes and Jambres) resisted him, and also turned their rods into Serpents. But Moses did it by true piety, they by diabolical delusions, as false Christians many times work miracles by out∣ward signes of true piety, and therefore Moses rod overcame the Sorcerers Serpents, because the end of fraud and falsehood is, to be overcome by truth and piety.

From this changing of rods into Serpents, came the several metamorphosing of sundry other things into Serpents also, as that tale of Orpheus head, after he was torn in pieces by the Thracian wo∣men; and the same thrown into a River, was taken up in Lemnos. The Poet describeth it thus;

Hic ferus exposito peregrinis anguis arenis Os petit, & sparsos stillants rore capillos Lambit, & hymniferos inhiat divellere vultus: Tandem Phoebus adest: morsusque inserre parantem Arcet, & in Lapidem rictus Serpentis apertos Congelat, & patulos ut erant indurat hiatus.

In English thus;

No sooner on the forain coast now cast a land they were, But that cruel natur'd Snake did straight upon them fly, And licking on his ruffled hair, the which was dropping dry, Did gape to tyre upon those lips that had been wont to sing The heavenly hymnes. But Phoebus straight preventing that same thing, Dispoints the Serpent of his bait, and turns him into stone, With gaping chaps, &c.—

So Isacius Tzetzes writeth, that when Tiresia found Serpents in carnal copulation in Cithaeron, he slew a female, who presently after death was turned into a Woman, then also he slew a male, who likewise being dead, was in the same place and manner turned into a Man. When Cadmus was was sent by his Father, to seek out his sister Europa that was ravished by Jupiter, with straight charge not to return back again except he could finde her, having spent much time in seeking her to no purpose, because he could not finde her, and not daring to go back again to his father; he was warned by the Oracle that he should go into Boeotia to build a City. Coming thither, he sent his companions to the fountain of Mars that was in the Countrey to fetch water, where a great Serpent came and killed them; at last, Cadmus not finding their return, went likewise to the same Fountain, where he he found all his men slain, and the Serpent approaching to assail him, but he quickly killed it. After∣ward he was admonished by Pallas, to strew the teeth of the same Serpent upon the ground, which he performed, and then out of those teeth (saith Ovid) arose a multitude of Armed men, who in∣stantly fell to fight one with the other, in such cruel and bloudy manner, that at the last there were but▪ five of them all left alive, which five (by the will of Pallas) were preserved to be the Fathers

of the people of Thebes. And so Apolio〈…〉〈…〉us faigneth, that with the help of men bred of Serpent▪ teeth, came Jason to obtain the Golden Fleece.

They faign also, that Achelous when he strove with Hercules about Deianira, turned himself into divers shapes, and last of all into a Serpent, or as some say, into a River. So likewise Cadmus afore-said, being overcome with the sight and sense of his own miseries, and the great calamities that be∣fell to his Daughters and Nephews, forsook Thebes, and came into Illyrium, where it is said, that he earnestly desired of the Gods to be turned into a Serpent, because a Serpent was the first original of all his extremities. Antipater faigneth Jupiter to be turned into a Serpent; and Medusa refusing the love of Neptune, is also faigned by Ovid to be turned into a Serpent, when he writeth;

Hanc pelagi rector templo vitiasse Minervae Dicitur, aversa est & castos Aegide vultus Nota Jovis texit: neve hoc impune fuisset, Gorgoneum crinem turpes mutavit in Hydros. Nunc quoque ut attonitos formidine terreat hostes, Pectore in adverso, quos fecit sustinet angues.

In English thus;

It is reported how she should abus'd by Neptune be, In Pallas Church, from which foul fact Joves daughter turn'd her eye: And left it should unpunisht be, she turnd her seemly hair To loathsome Snakes, the which the more to put her foes in fear, Before her breast continually she in her hand doth bear.

Pterius writeth, that the myrtle rod was not lawful to be brought into the Temple of Hecate, and that a Vine branch was extended over the head of her sign: and whereas it was not lawful to name Wine, they brought it into her Temple under the name of milk, and that therein continually lived harmless Serpents. The reason of all this was, because that her own Father Faunus fell in love with her, whom she resisted with all modesty, although she were beaten with a Myrtle rod, and made to drink Wine; but at last the beastly father was transformed into a Serpent, and then he op∣pressing her with the spires of his winding body, ravished her against her minde. These and such like stories and Fables are extant about the beginnings of Serpents; all which, the Reader may consider, to stir up his minde to the earnest and ardent meditation of that power that of stones can make men, of Rocks, water; of water, Wine; and of small Rods great Serpents.

Then thus having expressed the Original of Serpents in their Creation, it followeth now to add * 1.13 the residue of this Chapter about their generation. It is a general rule that all Beasts wanting feet and have long bodies, perform their work of carnal copulation by a mutual embracing one of the other, as Lampreys and Serpents: And it is certain, that two Serpents in this action seem to be one body and two heads, for they are so indivisibly united and conjoyned together, and the frame of their body is altogether unapt for any other manner of copulation. When they are in this acti∣on * 1.14 they send forth a rank savour offensive to the sense of them that do perceive it: And although like unto many fishes, they want stones, yet have they two open passages wherein lyeth their gene∣rative seed, and which being filled provoketh them to their venereal lust, the seed it self being like a milky humor; and when the female is under the male, she hath also her passages to receive the seed, as it were into the cells of her womb, and there it is framed into an Egge, which she hide••h in the earth an hundred in a cluster, about the quantity of a Birds egg, or a great bead, such as are used some-time by women.

And this is general for all Serpents, except Vipers, who lay no Egges, but hatch in their wombs their young ones, as we shall shew at large in their particular history. The Serpent having laid her Egge sitteth upon them to hatch them at several times, and in a year they are perfected into young ones. But concerning the supposed copulation of Serpents and Lampreys, I will not meddle in this place, reserving that discourse to the History of Fishes, and now only it sufficeth in this place to name it, as a feigned invention; although Saint Ambrose and other ancient Writers have believed the same, yet Aihenaeus, and of late days P. Jovlus, have learnedly and sufficiently declared by unanswerable arguments the clean contrary. The Serpents love their Egges most tenderly, and do every one of them know their own, even among the confused heaps of the multitude, and no less is their love to their young ones, whom for their safeguard, sometime they receive into their mouths, and suffer them to run into their bellies: And thus much for the generation of Ser∣pents.

Of the Names of Serpents, and their several parts of Anatomy.

BY Serpents we understand in this discourse all venomous Beasts, whether creeping without legs, as Adders and Snakes, or with legs, as Crocodiles and Lizards, or more neerly compacted bo∣dies, as Toads, Spiders, and Bees, following herein the warant of the best ancient Latinists, as namely Cornelius Celsus, Pliny and Apuleius do call Lice Serpents, in that their relation of the death of Phere∣cydes the Syrian, who was the Praeceptor of Pythagoras, of whom it is said, Serpentibus periisse, to have perished by Serpents, when on the contrary it is manifested he was killed by Lice. Aristotle and Galen define a Serpent to be animal sanguineum pedibus orbatum & oviparum, that is, a bloudy Beast without feet, yet laying egges; and so properly is a Serpent to be understood.

The Hebrews call a Serpent Nachasch. Darcon and Cheveia by the Chaldees: so also Thanintus and Schephiphon, by the Hebrews; as Rabbi Solomon, Munster and Pagnine write. The Grecians, Ophidi and Ophis, although this word do also signifie a Viper in particular, even as the Latine, Serpens, or Serpula do, sometime a Snake, and sometime an Adder. The Arabians, Haie, and Hadaie, for all manner of Serpents. And Testuh, or Tenstu, or Agestim for Serpents of the Wood, likewise Apartias and Atussi. The Germans, Ein schlang; which word seemeth to be derived from Anguis, by an usual figure, and af∣ter the German fashion, preposing Sch. The French call it Ʋn serpent; the Italians, Serpe & Serpente: and Massarius saith, that Scorzo and Scorzone, are general words for all manner of Serpents in Italy, which strike with their teeth. The Spaniards call them Sierpe; the Grecians call the young ones in the Dams belly, Embrua; and the Latines, Catuli. And thus much for the names in general, which in holy Scripture is Englished a Creeping thing.

Now it followeth, that I should set down a particular description of all the outward parts of Ser∣pents; and first of all, their colour is for the most part like the place of their habitation, or abode, I mean like the Earth, wherein they live; and therefore I have seen some black, living in dung; some yellow, living in sandy rocks; and some of other colour, as green, living in trees and fields; but generally they have spots on their sides and belly, like the scales of fish, which are both white, black, green, yellow, brown, and of other colours also, of which Ovid writeth:

—Longo caput extulit antro Caeruleus Serpens, horrendaque sibila misit.

That is,

The greenish Serpent extold her head from den so steep, And fearful hissing did send forth from throat so deep.

The frame of their bodies do not much vary in any, except in the feet and length, so that with a reservation of them, we may express their universal Anatomy in one view; for almost all of them are of the same proportion that is seen in Lizards, if the feet be excepted, and they made to have longer bodies. For they are inclosed in a kinde of shell or crusty skin, having their upper parts on th••••r back, and their neather parts on the belly like a Lizard, but they want stones, and have such manner of places for copulation as fishes have, their place of conception being long and cloven All their bowels, by reason of the length and narrowness of their bodies, are also long and narrow, and hard to be discerned, because of the dissimilitude of their figures and shapes. Their artery is long, and their throat longer then that: the ground or root of the artery is near the mouth, so as a man would judge it to be under the tongue, so as it seemeth to hang out above the tongue, espe∣cially when the tongue is contracted and drawn backward. The head long like a Fishes, and flat; never much bigger then the body, except in monstrous and great shaped Serpents, as the Boas. Yea, Aristotle maketh mention of a Serpent that had two heads; and Arnoldus, of a Serpent in the Pireney Mountains, slain by a souldier, that had three heads, in whose belly were found two sons of the said souldier devoured by him, and the back-bone thereof was as great as a mans skull, or a Rams head. And such an one we read in our English story was found in England, in the year 1349. And the 23 year of Edward the third, there was a Serpent found in Oxfordshi••e, near Chippingnorton, that had two heads and faces like women, one being shaped after the new attire * 1.15 of that time, and another after the manner of the old attire, and it had great wings, after the man∣ner of a Bat.

The tongue of a Serpent is peculiar, for besides the length and narrowness thereof, it is also clo∣ven at the tip, being divided as it were with very little or small nails points. It is also thin, long, and black of colour, voluble; neither is there any beast that moveth the tongue so speedily: where∣fore some have thought, that a Serpent hath three tongues, but in vain, as Isidorus sheweth, for they deceive by the nimbleness thereof. Their ventricle is large, like their maw, and like unto a Dogs, also thin, and uniform at the end. The heart is very small, and cleaveth to the end of their artery, but yet it is long, and sheweth like the reins of a Man: wherefore sometimes it may be seen to be〈…〉〈…〉 the tip or lap thereof to the breast-ward. After this followeth the lights, but far separate from 〈◊〉〈◊〉, being simple, full of fibres, and open holes like pipes, and very long: The liver long and simple; the milt small and round as in Lizards. The gall is for the most part as in fishes, but in Water-snakes it is joyned to the Liver: in other Serpents to the stomach or maw. All their teeth stand out of their mouth, and they have thirty ribs, even as there were among the Hebrews and Egyptians thirty days to every moneth.

Aristotle saith, that as their eyes be small, so also they have the same good hap that befalleth young Swallows, for if by chance they scratch or rend out their eyes, then it is faid they have other grow up naturally in their places; In like manner their tails being cut off, grow again. And generally Serpents have their heart in the throat, the gall in the belly or stomach, and their stones near their tail: Their egges are long and soft, and in their teeth they cary poyson of defence and and annoy∣ance, * 1.16 for which cause they desire above all other things to save their heads. Their sight is but dull and dim, and they can hardly look at one side, or backward, because their eyes are placed in their temples, and not in their fore-head, and therefore they hear better then they see. They have eye-lids, for generally no creatures have eye-lids, except those which have hair in the other parts of their bodies; four-footed beasts in the upper cheek, fowls in the neather, or Lizards which

have egs, or Serpents which have soft backs. They have also certain passages of breathing in their nostrils, but yet they are not so plain that they can be termed nostrils, but breathing places. Their ears are like to finny Fishes, namely small passages, or hollow places in the backer parts of their head, by which they hear.

Their teeth are like Sawes, or the teeth of Combes joyned one within the other, that so they might not be worn out by grinding or grating together; and yet they bend inward, to the end that they may the better hold their meat in their mouths, being without all other externall help for that purpose; for even those Serpents which have feet, yet can they not apply them to their chaps. In the upper chap they have two longer then all the residue, on either side one, bored thorough with a little hole like the sting of a Scorpion, by which they utter their poyson. Yet there be some good Authors that affirm, that this poyson is nothing else but their gall, which is forced to the mouth by certain veins under the ridge or back-bone. Some again say, that they have but one long tooth, and that a crooked one, which turneth upward by often biting, which sometime fall∣eth off, and then groweth again, of which kinde those are, which men carry up and down tame in their bosoms.

Although they be great raveners, yet is their throat but long and narrow, for help whereof, when they have gotten a booty, they erect themselves upon their tails, and swallow down their meat the more easily. They cannot be said properly to have any neck, yet something they have, which in proportion answereth that part. They have tails like all other creatures, except Men and Apes, and some say that their poyson is contained in their tails, and is from thence conveyed into little bladders in their mouths, therefore the Mountebanks or Juglers, break that bladder, that they may keep them without poyson, but within the space of twenty four hours they are recollected, and grow anew again.

Their bodies are covered over with a certain skin like a thin bark, and upon Serpents it sup∣plyeth the place that scales and hair do upon Beasts and fishes; for indeed, it is a pure skin, and in most things they are like to Fishes, except that they have lights, and Fishes have none: the reason is, they live on the earth, and the Fishes in the sea, and therefore have fins and gills instead thereof. The little Serpents have all their bones like thorns, but the greater, which stand in need of greater strength, have solid bones for their firmitude and better constitution. It is questionable whether they have any milt or no, and some say they have at the time of their laying of egges, and not otherwise. Their place of conception or secret, is large, and standeth far out, beginning be∣neath, and so arising up to the back-bone double; that is, having one skin or enclosure on either side, with a double passage, wherein the egs are engendered, which are not laid one by one, but by heaps or clusters together. They have no bladder to contain urine, like to all other Creatures which have feathers, scales or rinde-speckled skins, except the Tortoises: the reason is, because of the exiguity and smallnesse of the assumed humour, and also all the humour acquired, is consu∣med into a loose and evaporate flesh. And to conclude this Anatomy, I will adde a short descripti∣on which Gregorius Macer a Physitian wrote to Gesner, 1558. by 〈…〉〈…〉is own dissection as followeth, saying.

As I ••ay at rest in a green field, there came unto me a great Serpent hissing, and holding up her neck, which I suddainly with a piece of wood amazed at a stroak, and so slew without peril to my self. Afterward, sticking her fast to a pale, I drew off her skin, which was very fast and sharp, and I found betwixt the skin and the flesh, a certain little thin skin, descending all upon the body with the outward skin, and this was somewhat fat. And when I came unto the place of excrements I found it like a Fishes, but there issued forth certain filth, farre exceeding in stinking savour the excrements of a man. After I had thus pulled off the skin, it was easie for me to look into the inward parts, which I found to answer the inward Anatomy of fishes and Fowls in some parts, and in other things, there appeared a proper disposition to the Serpent it self. For the Artery Trachea was about three or four fingers long, turned about with little round circles, and so descended to the lights, unto which the heart and the bladder containing the gall, did adhere or cleave fast. Then the liver was long, like the Fish Lucius, and so a white caul or fatnesse covered both the liver and stomach, which was half a span long: The guts began at the chaps, and so descended down to the place of excrements, as we see they do in Fishes.

Beneath the liver were the guts, upon either side descended a certain nervy or hard vein, unto which the egs did cleave: which were covered with such little skins as Hens egs are before they be layd, but yet they were distinguished in seat or place, because of their multitude; for upon either side I found two and thirty egs. The tongue of the Serpent was cloven, and very sharp, but there appeared not any poyson therein. And so it is evident, that in the vein Trachea, heart and lights, it agreeth with Birds; in the liver, guts and caul, it resembleth a Fish, but in the place of the gall, and disposition of the egs, it differeth from both. And thus farre Macer, with whose words I will conclude this Chapter of Serpents Anatomy.

Of the quantity of Serpents, and their abode, food, and other accidents.

SO great is the quantity of Serpents, and their long during age increaseth them to so great a sta∣ture, that I am almost afraid to relate the same, lest some suspicious and envious minded persons, should utterly condemn it for fabulous; but yet when I consider not only the plentiful testimonies of worthy and undoubted Antiquaries, and also the evidence of all ages, (not excepting this where∣in we live) wherein are and have been shewed publiquely many Serpents, and Serpents skins, I re∣ceive warrant sufficient to express what they have observed, and assured answer for all future Ob∣jections, of ignorant, incredulous, and unexperienced Asses. Wherefore as the life of Ser∣pents is long, so is the time of their growth; and as their kindes be many, (as we shall mani∣fest in the succeeding discourse) so in their multitude, some grow much greater and bigger then other.

Gellius writeth, that when the Romans were in the Carthaginian war, and Attilius Rogulus the Con∣sul had pitched his Tents near unto the River Bragrada, there was a Serpent of monstrous quantity, which had been lodged within the compass of the Tents, and therefore did cause to the whole Ar∣my exceeding great calamity, untill by casting of stones with slings, and many other devises, they oppressed and slew that Serpent, and afterward fleyed off the skin and sent it to Rome, which was in length one hundred and twenty feet. And although this seem to a beast of unmatchable sta∣ture, yet Possidonius a Christian Writer, relateth a story of another which was much greater, for he writeth, that he saw a Serpent dead, of the length of an acre of Land, and all the residue both of head and body, were answerable in proportion, for the bulk of his body was so great, and lay so high, that two Horsemen could not see one the other being at his two sides, and the wideness of his mouth was so great, that he could receive at one time within the compass thereof, a Horse and a man on his back both together: The scales of his coat or skin, being every one like a large buckler or target. So that now there is no such cause to wonder at the Serpent which is said to be killed by S. George, which was as is reported so great, that eight Oxen were but strength, enough to draw him out of the City Silena.

There is a River called Rhyndacus near the Coasts of Bythinia, wherein are Snakes of exceeding monstrous quantity, for when through heat they are forced to take the water, for their safegard * 1.17 against the Sun, and birds come flying over the pool, suddenly they raise their heads and upper parts out thereof, and swallow them up. The Serpents of Megalauna, are said by Pausanias to be * 1.18 thirty cubits long, and all their other parts answerable. But the greatest in the world are found in India, for there they grow to such a quantity, that they swallow up whole Bulls and great Stags. Wherefore I do not marvel that Porus the King of India, sent to Augustus Caesar very huge Vipers, a Serpent of ten cubits long, a Tortoise of three cubits, and a Partridge greater then a Vulture. For Alexander in his Navigation upon the Red-sea, saith; that he saw Serpents forty cubits long, and all their other parts and members of the same quantity.

Among the Scyritae, the Serpents come by great swarms upon their flocks of Sheep and cattel, and some they eat up all, others they kill and suck out the bloud, and some part they carry away. But if ever there were any thing beyond credit, it is the relation of Volateran, in his twelfth Book of the New-found Lands, wherein he writeth, that there are Serpents of a mile long, which at one certain * 1.19 time of the year come abroad out of their holes and dens of habitation, and destroy both the Heards and Heard-men if they find them. Much more favourable are the Serpents of a Spanish Island, who do no harm to any living thing, although they have huge bodies, and great strength to accomplish their desires.

In the Kingdom of Senega, their Serpents are so great that they devour whole Beasts, as Goats, and such like, without breaking any one of their bones. In Calechute, they are as great as their greatest Swine, and not much unlike them, except in their head, which doth far exceed a Swines. And because the King of that Countrey hath made a Law, that no man kill a Serpent under pain of death, they are as great in number as they are in quantity: for so great is his error, that he deemeth it as lawful to kill a Man as a Serpens.

All kindes of Serpents are referred to their place of habitation, which is either the earth, or the waters of the earth; and the Serpents of the earth are more in number then the Serpents of the * 1.20 water, except the Serpents of the Sea: And yet it is thought by the most learned Rabbins, that the Ser∣pents of the Sea, are fishes in the likeness of Dragons. Now the places of Serpents abode being thus * 1.21 generally capitulated, we must enter into a farther narration of their habitations, and regions of their native breeding. In the first place, India nourisheth many and divers sorts of Serpents, especially in the Kingdom of Morfilium, and Alexander the Emperor, found among other Beasts, sundry kindes of Serpents in a long Desert, which is on the North-side of India. But all the Nations of the * 1.22 World may give place to Aethiopia for multitude and variety, for there they gather together on heaps, and lie in compass like round hills, visibly apparent to the eyes of them that behold them a far off. The like is said of all Africa, for in Numidia, every year there are many men, women and children destroyed by Serpents. The Island Pharus, is also (by the testimony of the Egyptians) filled with Serpents: The Coasts of Elymais are annoyed by Serpents; and the Caspians are so an∣noyed by Serpents which come swimming in the floods, that men cannot sail that ways but in the

Winter time. For from the beginning of the Spring, or aequinoctal, they seem (for their num∣ber) * 1.23 to approach ravening, like Troops and Armies. There are certain Islands called Ophiusae ins••••ae, named after Ophis a Serpent, for the multitude bred therein: And there are Serpents in Candy, Ephe∣sus, and all hot Countries, for this priviledge hath GOD in nature given to the colder Countreys, that they are less annoyed with Serpents, and their Serpents also less nocent and hurtful: and there∣fore * 1.24 the Serpents of Europe are fewer in number, lesser in quantity, and more resistable for their weakness and strength.

There were a people in Campania called Osci, because of the multitude of Serpents bred among them: Likewise there are great store in Lombardy and Ferrata. And whereas we have said, that * 1.25 the most nocent and harmful Serpents are bred in the hottest Regions, where they engender more speedily, and also grow into greater proportions, yet is it not to be understood of any special pro∣perty appertaining to them alone, for I read in Olaus Magnus his description of the Northern Re∣gions, of Serpents of as great quantity as in any other place of the world; but yet their poyson is not half so venomous and hurtful, as in the hotter Regions, especially the African Serpents. In * 1.26 B••tina near Livonia, there are great store of great Serpents also, so that the Heard-men are at con∣tinual war and contention with them for defence of their flock: Likewise in the Mountains of Hel∣vetia and Avergne, whereof there are many wonders reported in the World, which I will not stand upon to relate in this place. We read also, that some places have been disinhabited, and dispeopled by Serpents, such were the people of Scythia, called Neuri, who before the war of Darius, were constrained to forsake their soil, because they were annoyed, not only with home-bred Serpents, but also with many other which came from other parts: and so the Countrey remaineth desolate to this present day, the ancient Inhabitants being all removed to dwell among the Buditani. The City Amyclae in Italy, (as M. Varro writeth) was destroyed also by Serpents. And there be cer∣tain places of the world, which have received their denomination from Serpents, besides the Ophi∣usae near Creie.

The Island Tenos, was called Hydrussa and Ophiussa, so were Cremiuscos, Aepolium, and the * 1.27 Mountains Macrocremnii, Rhodus, and the long Islands Ophiades in the Arabian coast, which after it had remained along time desert, was purged and cleared from Serpents by the Kings of Egypt. Nicanetus also calleth Cyprus, Ophiodia. And in Pausanias, we read of a place named Opheos Kephale, the Serpents head. The like might be said of Rivers, as of Orontes, called also Ophites, and Ophis * 1.28 in Pontus, which divideth asunder Colchis, and the Countrey Thiamica. Ebusus nourisheth no Ser∣pents, and the Earth thereof hath in it a secret vertue to drive away Serpents, wherefore it is much desired of all men to carry about them, for that it hath been often proved, that never any venomous beast durst adventure upon any man possessed thereof. The like is said of Ireland, * 1.29 as our own Chronicles do plentifully declare, and therefore I will spare to enter into any narration thereof.

To come therefore to the more particular abode of Serpents, especially of such as are known to us, we must leave off the talk and nomination of Kingdoms, and descend to dens, holes, caves, dunghils, Sheep-coats, valleys, rocks hollow-walls and trees, woods, green pastures, hedges, and such like places, wherein they make their most abode: And now and then in these Northern parts of the world (and yet seldom) they dive down into the bottom or roots of trees, especially such as are green all the Winter time: For they finde in them a greater heat or warmth, then in other, whose leaves fall off and decay in the cold weather, except in the roots of Birth. And by reason of their multitude gathered together at the root of this tree, it falleth out that their breath heateth the same, and so preserveth the leaves from falling off: Wherefore in ancient time, the ignorant multitude, seeing a Birch tree with green leaves in the Winter, did call it our Ladies Tree, or a holy tree, attributing that greenness to miracle, not knowing the former reason, or secret in Na∣ture. Solinus reporteth of such a like Wood in a part of Africa, where in all the Winter time, the leaves of all the trees abide green, the cause is as before recited, for that the Serpents living at the roots of the trees in the earth, do heat them with their breath. Neither ought any man to wonder that they should so friendly live together, especially in the Winter and cold time, seeing that by experience in England, we know that for warmth they will creep into bed-straw, and about the legs of men in their sleep; as may appear by this succeeding discourse, of a true history done in England, in the house of a worshipful Gentleman, upon a servant of his, whom I could name if it were needful. He had a servant that grew very lame and feeble in his legs, and thinking that he could never be warm in his bed, did multiply his clothes, and covered himself more and more, but all in vain, till at length he was not able to go about, neither could any skill of Physitian or Chirurgeon finde out the cause.

It hapned on a day as his Master leaned at his Parlour window, he saw a great Snake to slide along the house side, and to creep into the chamber of this lame man, then lying in his bed (as I remem∣ber,) for he lay in a low chamber, directly against the Parlour window aforesaid. The Gentleman desirous to see the issue, and what the Snake would do in the chamber, followed, and looked into the chamber by the window; where he espyed the Snake to slide up into the bed-straw, by some way open in the bottom of the bed, which was of old boards. Straightway his heart rising thereat, he called two or three of his servants, and told them what he had seen, bidding them go take their Rapiers and kill the said Snake. The serving men came first and removed the lame man (as I remember) and then the one of them turned up the bed, and the other two the straw, their

master standing without at the hole, whereinto the said Snake had entered into the chamber. The bed was no sooner turned up, and the Rapier thrust into the straw, but there issued forth five or six great Snakes that were lodged therein: Then the serving-men bestirring themselves, soon dispatched them, and cast them out of doors dead. Afterward, the lame Mans legs recovered, and became as strong as ever they were: whereby did evidently appear, the coldness of these Snakes or Serpents, which came close to his legs every night, did so benum them as he could not go. And thus for heat they pierce into the holes of chimneys, yea into the tops of hills and houses, much more into the bottoms and roots of trees.

When they perceive that Winter approacheth, they finde out their resting places, wherein they lie half dead four months together, until the Spring sun again communicating her heat to all Crea∣tures reviveth, and (as it were) raiseth them up from death to life During which time of cold Winter, as Seneca writeth, Tuto tractari postifera Serpens potest, non desunt tuno illi venena, sed 〈◊〉〈◊〉: They * 1.30 may be safely handled, without fear of harm, not because they want poyson at that time, but be∣cause they are drouzy, and deadly astonished. But there is a question, whether when they be in this se∣cresie or drouziness, they awake not to eat, or else their sleep be unto them in stead of food. Olaus Magnus affirmeth of the Northern Serpents, that they eat not at all, but are nourished with sleep. Cardan saith, that they take some little food, as appeareth by those which are carryed up and down in boxes to be seen, and are fed with bran or cheasil; But this may be answered, that Serpents in boxes, are not so cold as those in Woods and Deserts: and therefore seeing cold keepeth them from eating, the external heat of the box-house, or humane body which beareth them about, may be a cause, that inclosed Serpents feed in Winter as well as in Summer, and yet the Serpents which run wilde in the fields eat nothing at all, during the time of their Chias or Ehiaus, that is, their ly∣ing hid.

Grevinus that learned man proponeth this question, Si Serpentes calidi sunt, qui fit ut integros tr••t aut quatuor menses, id est toto illo tempore quo delitescunt, absque cibo vivunt? If (saith he) Serpents be hot, how cometh it to pass that they can live three or four moneths without all food, that is, all the time of their lying secret? He maketh (in my opinion) a sufficient answer to this question, which for me shall conclude the cause, saying; Doth it not fall out with Serpents as it doth with some wo∣men, who being full of humor, and thick phlegmatick matter, have but a little and weak natural heat, (yet proportionable to the said humor) do live a great time by reason thereof without food or nourishment? And for this cause, all the hoasts of Philosophers do define, that Serpents do also abstain from eating a long season. For Nature hath clothed them with a more solid skin, and lined them with a more thick and substantial flesh, to the intent that their natural heat should not easily vanish away and decay in their bodies, but remain therein permanent, for the feeding and preserving of life. When they sleep, they seem to sleep with open eyes, which is elegantly described by Philes in these Greek verses:

Opos kathéude kai dokei palin blepein Ophis te kai ptox ka•• thumou pleres león Epipetatai gar he chlamys ton ommaton Allou tinos Chitonos hapaloterou. Phrorountos autois os dioptras, task-óras.

Which may be Englished thus;

How can the Hare, the Serpent, and the Lion bold, Both sleep, and see together at one time? Within their eye-lids, a soft skin their sight doth fold, Shilding their apples, as glass doth weakened eyne.

The food of Serpents that is permitted them by God, is the dust of the earth, as may appear by that first and just sentence, which GOD himself gave upon them, for seducing our first Parents, Ad〈…〉〈…〉 and Eve, Gen. 3. 14. Because thou hast done this thing, thou art accursed above all the Beasts of the field, for thou shalt go upon thy belly, and eat dust all the days of thy life. And again, Esay 65. 25. Dust shall be me••t to the Serpent. And lest that we should think that this curse hath not taken hold upon the Serpent, we may finde the express practise hereof, Mich. 7. 17. where it is said of Gods enemies, that, They shall lick the dust like the Serpent. Yet Aristotle affirmeth truly, that Serpents are Omnitori, that is, devourers of flesh, fish, herbs, or any other things; howbeit, herein they pass their kinde, or else the curse of God reacheth not to any other kindes then to that alone which deceived our first Parents.

We have shewed already, how they eat and devour men, women and children, Oxen, Sheep, and Goats, but whatsoever they eat, they retain nothing but the moisture of it, and the residue they eject whole and undigested. Whatsoever is offered them, that they take, either a bird, or a small chicken, or an egge, having it, they take hold but of one end, as of the head of a chick, or small end of an egge, and so set it directly before them; then do they gather themselves together in as short a compass as may be, that so their bodies which seem long and small, being extended, may appear great and wide, reduced into a short and compacted frame. And surely hereby they open and make wider their passage and swallow for then they suddenly goble in the beast or meat before them, with∣out any great ado; and having kept it in their body till it be dryed from all moisture, they cast it out again as they swallowed it up, at another ordinary place. But for birds and chickens, they strive with them till they have gotten off their feathers, or else, if they swallow them whole, they eject the feathers as they do egge-shells.

The Serpents of the North do in the Summer time eat the flesh of birds, and herbs, and after the eating of them, they taste of a little water, or milk if they can attain it, or else Wine. For this cause they will suck the udders of Kine, or Goats, or Sheep, as hath been seen in England, Yet is their appetite to drink but small, as is in all other creatures, whose livers are fungous, and soft like spunges; and so are all beasts and creatures which lay egges. Above all kindes of drink they love Wine, and thereof they be drunk, wherefore in Italy they set pottles of Wine to en∣trap Vipers: for if once they smell the Wine, they enter the vessel gladly and speedily, and the Wine or Milk whereof they drink, is poysoned by them. But in those places of Africk where it never raineth, they eat a kinde of black moist worm, which hath many legs, as is said by The∣ophrastus. And to conclude, their meat and drink is so small, that it is received for truth, Nul∣luns venenatum perit fame velsiti, that no venomous beast perisheth by hunger or thirst.

The voyce of Serpents is called Sibilus, a hissing, and their voyce differeth from all other Beasts hissing, in the length thereof: for the hissing of a Tortoise is shorter and more abrupt. Of this his∣sing voyce speaketh Lucan, saying;

Quod strident ululantque ferae, quod sibilat anguis.

In English thus;

G••••shing and howling is the voyce of-wilde Beasts; Long hissing in Snakes and Serpents doth rest.

Among other things notable in a Serpent, this is one, because it casteth off his old age every year, whereof the Grecians tell this fabulous reason. Once Man-kinde strove earnestly with the Gods by supplication for a perpetual youth, that they might never wax old: and obtaining their desire, they laid the same to be carryed upon an Ass. The silly Beast waxing sore athirst in his travail, at last came unto a water, and thereof endevoured earnestly to drink; but the keeper of the same water being a Serpent, denyed leave to the Ass to drink thereof, except he would grant him his carriage, which was Perpetual youth: The poor Ass ready to perish for thirst, easily condescended thereunto. Whereupon the Serpent changeth her age for youth, and Men their youth for old age; and the Ass for his punishment, is more tormented with thirst then any other Beast.

But to leave fables, and to come more neer the mark, the Latines call the casting off their skin, Anguina senectus, spolium Serpentis, & vernatio; the Grecians, Opheos derma, Suphar, Leberis & Ge∣ras; the Arabians, Geluc & Genlut, & Fulcalhaileb; the Italians, Spoglia delle Serpi: and the Spaniards, Pelle de la culebra. About this Snakes skin there is great difference among Authors, some affirming it to be the very skin. Other, that it is nothing but a kinde of hard Leprosie, grown upon them during the Winter time while they lie hid. Some again say, that they cast it twice a year, first * 1.31 in the Spring, and then secondly in the Autumn. But by conference of all together it appeareth, that while the Serpents he hid, by reason of their drought now in the beginning of the Spring when they come first abroad, they rub off this skin by sliding betwixt two stones, or underneath some root of a tree, or else betwixt some boughs or small trees, beginning at the head, and so continuing to the tail. And within four and twenty hours, that which was raw and bald, beginneth to have ano∣ther skin upon it; and so as a young childe or beast cometh out of the Secondine doth a Serpent come out of the skin.

As concerning their eye-sight, they naturally do take the juyce of Fennel, which they eat, and by that recover their seeing again: and if it happen that they caanot finde sufficient, they rub their dim eyes thereupon. And if it happen that any of his scales be bruised, or fall senseless, then do * 1.32 they rub themselves upon the thorns of Juniper. And whereas it is thought that they cast their skins again in Autumn, that is to be attributed either to Vipers alone, which cast their skins twice a year, or else to those which are long before they cast, and so it falleth off in Harvest or Autumn the first time, which by reason of the unseasonableness, is thought to be a second coat. And this have I my self often found here in England in the Summer time. The casting off this skin is thus ele∣gantly described by Tibullus:

Crudeles Divi! Serpens novus exuit annos, Forma non ullam fata dedere moram. Anguibus exuitur tenui cum pelle vetustas: Cur uos angusta conditione sumus?

Which may thus be Englished;

O cruel Gods, sith Serpents change their yearly age, And Fates delay not to resine their form, Sith Snakes with tender skin excuss'd their years enlarge, Why unto worser hap is Mankinde born?

Of the inward disposition of Serpents, and of their concord and discord with other Creatures.

IT is ever to our woe to be remembred, that which the Lord himself hath left recorded in Genesis, that, The Serpent was more subtile then all the beasts which God had made. By which is expressed the natural disposition of this beast above other to subtilty and policy; For I cannot approve the saying of them, who think that the Devil at the beginning might as well have used the tongue of an Ass or a Dog to have deceived Man, as well as a Serpents; but surely that old Serpent knew very well, (better then all they which speak the contrary) that he could not have so fit a subject in all the World, as the shape, wit, and cunning of a Serpent. And that this came not into the Serpent at that time when the Devil framed his tongue to speak, may appear by the precept of our Saviour Christ, where he saith; Be wise as Serpents, be innocent as Doves. For if there had not been na∣turally, some extraordinary faculty of understanding in this beast, as there is of meekness in a Dove, his wisdome would never have sent us to a Serpent possest with a Devil, but rather to some other ingenious Beast, whereof there were great store in the World. And therefore I conclude, that subtilty and prudence came not to the Serpent as speaking into Balaams Ass, but rather by nature or creation.

And yet concerning this last sentence of our most blessed Saviour, I cannot but express the words of Tzetzes, who writeth thus upon it, Servate capita vestra, quemadmodum Serpens qui insidiis petitus vapulansque ad mortem, omnimodò caput suum abscondit, sicves à••tyrannis & impiis cruciati, caput servate mihi, fidem vestram, & ne Deum neget is usque ad ipsam mortem. That is, it is as much as if our Saviour Christ should say; Even as when a Serpent is set upon and stroken, by all the means she can she hideth her head, and exposeth all her other parts to blows, reserving that sound; so you, when you are persecuted by Tyrants, preserve your head, that is, your faith, and deny not your God to death. And this thing is affirmed by all Writers, both divine and humane, which have ever touched this point, that above all the parts of the body the Serpent preserveth his. For Pliny saith, that if his body be cut off but two fingers length from his head, he will go away as if he had no harm at all, and live longer.

Paulus Fagius writing upon Genesis, saith; It is the opinion of some Hebrews, that the Serpent at the beginning did go upright, and was indued with all the affections of men: but this Jewish fa∣ble is not worthy to be confuted, because humane affection cannot proceed but from a reasonable foul, which to ascribe to the Serpent, were blasphemous and absurd. Besides, that then the soul might die, and that God had created such a soul, otherwise then by breathing into the body the breath of life.

Serpents have many Epithets given unto them, as illiberal, perfidious, treacherous, venomous, poy∣sonful, stinging, implacable, surious, savage, merciless, devourer, and such like: And indeed the ho∣ly Writers, by a Serpent do understand implacable fury: For they are immitissimum animalium genus, a most ungentle and barbarous kinde of all creatures, as may appear by the rage of a little Snake, one of the least of Serpents kinde: for when he perceiveth that he is hurt or wounded, he never ceaseth casting out his poyson, until he have done harm, or die for madness.

Two things I finde to be notable in Serpents, the first is proper to their kinde, the second is com∣mon to them with Swine, Rats, and Mice. First, they are above measure kinde, not only to their young ones, but also to their Egges. For Funckius confidently sweareth, that at Lostorfium he saw a Ser∣pents Egge taken and cast into a hot furnace, and when it began to fry in the same, whether by natural instinct, or by smell thereof, the old Serpent came, and would have run into the fire to fetch it out, but that he and other strangers hindered her by killing her. And so likewise, if in a Wood one of them be set on fire, all the Serpents that are within the savour thereof, or within the hearing of the hissing, will instantly gather unto it, even as beasts when they hear one another roar. And so great is their love one toward another, (as Pliny and Textor write) that it was a vulgar saying, Serpentium morsus non petit Serpentes, one Serpent will not bite another. And Juvenal writeth;

Sed jam Serpentum major concordia— Scilicet, quam hominum inter se.

That is to say;

Better do Serpents with Serpents accord, Then Man with Man, who should be their Lord.

I cannot conceal a most memorable History as ever was any in the World; of a fight betwixt the Serpents of the Land and the Water. This History is taken out of a Book of Schiltbergerus, a Bavarian, who knew the same (as he writeth) while he was a captive in Turky, his words are these. Is the Kingdom called Genycke there is a City called Sampson, about which while I was prisoner with Baiazeta King of Turkes, there pitched or arrived an innumerable company of Land and Wa∣ter Serpents, compassing the said City a mile about. The Land-serpents came out of the woods of Trienick, which are great and many, and the water Serpents came out of the bordering Set.

These were nine days together assembling in that place, and for fear of them there was not any that durst go out of the City, although it was not observed that they hurt any man, or living creature thereabouts. Wherefore the Prince also commanded, that no man should trouble them, or do them any harm, wisely judging, that such an accident came not but by Divine miracle, and that also to siguifie some notable event. Upon the tenth day these two valiant Troops joyned bat∣tel early in the morning before the Sun-rising, so continuing in fight until the Sun-set, at which time the Prince with some Horse-men, went out of the City to see the battel, and it appeared to him and his associates, that the Water Serpents gave place to the Land Serpents. So the Prince and his company returned into the City again, and the next day went forth again, but found not a Serpent alive, for there were slain above eight thousand: all which he caused presently to be covered with earth in ditches, and afterward declared the whole matter to Baiazeta by Letters after he had gotten that City, whereat the great Turk rejoyced, for he thereby interpreted happiness to himself.

But I have been too long in this first and proper affection of Serpents, namely, their mutual con∣cord; and this example of the Land and Water Serpents, doth not break the common promised rule, because it is to be understood of Serpents that live in the same element. The second property * 1.33 is to presage Pestilence, rottenness of air, famine, floods, and ruine of those places wherein they are commorant, and have their abiding: so do they know to chuse a good air, and fore-know fer∣tility of fruits, earth-quakes and great tempests. When Helice was destroyed, five days before, the Serpents, Snakes, Rats, Mice, and Weasels, departed all out thereof, being wiser then Men, that mis∣deeming no harm, although they saw and wondered at these removals, yet stood it out to their own utter ruine, overthrow and destruction.

Of the friendship and enmity which Serpents keep with other Creatures.

EVer since the Devil entered into the Serpent, it became hateful to all, or the most part of the beasts of the field, so that it may as truly be verified of the Serpent as it was of Esau, that the hands of all Men and Beasts are against them, (except very few) for they are strangers to all, and finde very few or no friends. Yet it is reported, that the Serpent and the Fox will live peaceably to∣gether in one cave or lodging. There is a story, not unpleasant, of a Man that found a Ser∣pent enclosed betwixt two stones, and at the intreaty of the Serpent, he loosed him out of dan∣ger, and did him no harm. The Serpent being released and free from death, in stead of other recompence for so good a turn, told the Man that he had been therein a long time inclosed, and was very hungry, and therefore was forced (against his will) to make the best of his fortune, and there∣fore must needs eat the Man, and bad him prepare himself for death. The Man astonished at this motion, replyed to the Serpent, that he hoped he would not deal so with him, having delivered him from death, now to put his deliverer to death: and said moreover, that he would not be the Judge of his own case, but refer the same to the next they found: and the Serpent also yeelded to that judgement, being assured that no creature would quit the Man, lest he should cast his own life into peril. Forth then they went and met with an Ass, to whom the Man told the difference betwixt him and the Serpent, how kindely he saved the Serpents life, and how un∣kindely he again would take away his life. And then the Serpent bade the Ass consider what judgement he gave, and for whom he spake. The Ass adjudged it lawful for the Serpent to kill the Man. Lo now, said the Serpent, make you ready, for the matter is judged against you, and withall, began to make force at him with mouth and sting. But the Man said, that he would not take this Asses deree for reasonable, and therefore prayed the Serpent to tarry yet a little longer, and try once more the next. Beast they met withall; and the Serpent think∣ing himself sure of the booty, yeelded thereunto. Then forth they passed again, and shortly after met with a Fox, to whom the Man related his case, and the benefit he had done to the Serpent: The Serpent again confessed he released him, but withall, denyed his case to be as the Man had said, so desperate, but only he entrapped himself the better to compass a booty. The Fox having heard them both, (desirous to end the matter for the Mans benefit) would needs go with them both to the place where the Serpent was inclosed, and so all parties consented. And when the Fox came thither, he bade the Serpent go into the same place again, that so he might the better judge of the whole matter. The Serpent went in again betwixt the stones, and was so inclosed as he was before, for he could not stir neither backward nor forward. Then the Fox asked the Man if this were the Serpents case, from which he had delivered him? The Man an∣swered yea, in all points. Then he bade the Serpent come out again, as he said he could, without the help of the Man. But the Serpent called the Man to help him again. Nay, said the Fox, I found you two at variance, because of your discharge from this place, and seeing now you are as you were before, and the Man as he was before your enlargement, my sentence is, that when you come forth of that place you are in, then shall you eat the Man: and if he will let you forth again, I will never pity him. By this fable is shewed, that Foxes love not Serpents so well as they love Men, and yet they never love Men, but they are afraid, suspitious, and willing to forsake their familiarity.

Some say there is a kinde of love betwixt Serpents and Cats, whereof I finde this story in Ponzettus. There were certain Monks, who all of them fell sick upon a sudden, and the Physitians could not tell * 1.34 how or whence this sickness came, except from some secret poyson. At last, one of the servants of the Abbey, saw the Cat which was daily fed at the Monks table, to play with a Serpent; and there∣by it was conjectured, that the Serpent having in his sport lost or left some poyson upon the Cats skin, the Monks by stroking of the Cat were infected therewith. And the cause why the Cat was not harmed thereby, was for that she received the poyson from the sport, and not from the anger of the Serpent.

And this thing surely is not so marvellous, seeing that little Mice and Rats do also play with Ser∣pents, and herein Politicians play the Serpents, who hold correspondence and peace both with the Cat and the Mouse: that is, with two sworn and natural enemies together. The like peace and league they are also said to keep with Eeles, as may more plainly appear by this following History, of a cer∣tain Monk called Rodolphus a Will Monachus Capellensis.

There was (as this Monk affirmeth) one of his fellow Monks, which did often tell him, that be∣ing a little boy, and using to sport himself by the water side, he hapned to catch an Eele, which he at∣tempted (for his own pleasure) to carry to another water, and by the way as he went, he passed through a Wood, at which time when he was within the Wood, the Eele began to hiss and cry mainly, at the hearing whereof, there gathered together very many Serpents round about him, insomuch that he was afraid, and set down his basket fast pinned and ran away; afterward he came again and sought for his basket, but he found not the Eele therein, wherefore it was supposed, that the Ser∣pents delivered the same Eele out of the basket, by some sleight of nature: the only doubt is, whe∣ther Eeles do hiss or not, seeing they are fishes and Omnes pisces muti, all fishes are mute or dumb. But for answer to this objection, it is most certain that Eeles have a voyce, as all they know which use fishing in the night; for I my self, have not only heard such a voyce in the night time in Rivers, and other waters where Eeles abounded, but have had it confirmed by divers other, of greater practise and experience in fishing. The reason whereof, may be their manner of generation; for they engender not by spawn as other fishes, but of the slime of the earth or water, and differ not from Serpents in their external form, except in their colour, and therefore may be said to par∣take with Fishes and Serpents in both their natures: that is, having a voyce like a Serpent', and a substance like a Fish. Such is their confederacy with living Creatures, and with no more that I ever read or heard of.

But moreover, it is said that they love some Plants or Herbs above measure, as the Fennel and Ivy; and for this later, both Pliny and Textor do not without great cause wonder, that ever there was any honour ascribed or given to the Ivy, seeing that Serpents (the most unreconcileable enemies of man-kinde) delight so much therein. But herein the Devil blinded their reason, as he did the modest women, that worshipped Priapus; or the Tartars, which at this day worship the Devil, to the end that he should do them no harm. Thus much I can only say of the friends and lovers of Serpents, by the multitude whereof we may conjecture, how among other parts of the curse of God upon them, they are held accursed both by man and Beast.

Now then it followeth, that we enter into a more particular description, or rather a relation of that hatred which is between them and other creatures, and first I will begin with their arch enemy, I mean Man-kinde For when GOD at the beginning did pronounce his sentence against the Serpent, for deceiving our first Parents, among other things he said, I will put enmity betwixt thee and the Woman, betwixt thy seed and the Womans seed. Whereby he did signifie that perpetual war, and unappeasable discord, which should be for ever (by his own appointment) betwixt them. And the truth hereof is to be seen at this day, for by a kinde of secret instinct, and natural motion, a man abhorreth the sight of a Serpent, and a Serpent the sight of a man. And as by the tongue of the Serpent, was wrought mans confusion, so by the spittle of a mans tongue, is wrought a Serpents astonishment. For indeed such is the Ordinance of God, that Men and Serpents should ever annoy and vex each other. And this Erasmus saith shall continue, as long as meminerimus illius inauspicati pomi, we shall remember that unfortunate Apple.

Isidorus saith, that Serpents are afraid of a man naked, but will leap upon, and devour a man clo∣thed. Which thing is also affirmed by Olaus Magnus, for he saith, that when he was a boy he often tryed it, that when he was naked, he found little or no resistance in Serpents, and did safely with∣out all danger combat with them hand to hand. I my self also in my younger time, when I was about * 1.35 ten or twelve years old, used many times in the Spring and Summer time, to wash my self with other my Colleagues, in certain fish-ponds, wherein I have seen and met with divers Water-snakes with∣out all harm; and I did never in my life, hear of any harm they did to any of my fellows being naked, neither did I ever see any of them run away so fast on the land, as they did fly from us in the water; and yet are not the Water-snakes less hurtful then the Land-adders. And this was well known to many.

About the beginning or Fountain Springs of Euphrates, it is said, that there are certain Serpents * 1.36 which know strangers from the people of the Countrey, wherefore they do no harm to the na∣tural born Country-men, but with strangers, and men of other Countreys they fight with might and main. And along the banks of Euphrates in Syria, they also do the like; saving that if they chance to be trode upon by any of the people of those parts, they bite (like as a Dog doth) without any great harm; but if any, other, forainer or stranger annoy them, they also repay him with malice,

for they bite him, and intolerably vex him; wherefore the Countrey-men nourish them, and do them no harm. Such as these are also found in Tirinthus, but they are very little ones, and are thought to be engendered of the earth.

The first manifestation in nature, of Mans discord with Serpents, is their venom; for as in a Ser∣pent there is a venom which poysoneth a Man: so in a Man, there is the venom of his spittle which poysoneth a Serpent. For if the fasting spittle of a Man fall into the jaws of a Serpent, he certainly dyeth thereof. And of this, thus writeth the Poet Lucretius;

Est utique ut Serpens, hominis quae tacta salivis Disperit, ac sese mandendo conficit ipsa.

In English thus;

As Serpent dyeth when spittle of Man he tasteth, Gnashing his teeth to eat himself he wasteth.

The cause of this, the Philosophers (which knew nothing of Adams fall, or the forbidden Apple) * 1.37 do assign to be in the contrariety betwixt the living souls or spirits of these Creatures: for the Ser∣pents life is cold and dry, and the Humane life hot and moist, wherefore either of both abhorreth one the other; and the Serpent leapeth as far from a Mans spittle, as it would do out of a vessel of scalding water.

Agatharsides writeth, that there was a King in Africk called Psyllus, whose Sepulchre was preserved in the greater Syrtes. From this King there were certain people named Psyllians, in whose bodies there was a certain inbred and natural power to kill, or at the least to astonish Serpents, Spiders, Toads, and such like, and lay them for dead, even by the savour or smell of them. And the manner of these men, to try the chastity of their Wives, was to take their children newly born, and to cast them unto direful Serpents: for if they were of the right line, and lawfully begotten, then did the Serpents die before them, but if they were adulterous, and the children of strangers, the Serpents would eat and devour them. Pliny affirmeth, that even in his days there were some of those peo∣ple alive among the Nasamons, who destroyed many of them, and did possess their places; yet some running from death, escaped. Generally, such people were called Marsi and Psilli, for the Marsi were a people of Italy, descended of Circes (as is said) in whom there was a vertue to cure all the stinging of Serpents, by touching the wounded places. Such saith Crates Pergamenus, are in Hellespont, about the River Parius. And some are of opinion, that at the beginning they were Ophiogenes, born or bred of Serpents; or that some great Nobleman, father of that Countrey, was of a Serpent made a man. And Vario saith, that in his time there were some few men alive, in whose spittle was found that ver∣tue, to resist and cure the poyson of venomous Beasts.

But having named Ophiogenes, or Angu••genae, that is, Men bred of Serpents or Snakes, I see no cause why it should be judged, that those which cure Serpents poyson, should be so misjudged; for to cure poyson, is not the work of poyson, but of an Antidote, or contrary power to poyson: and therefore curers and resisters of poyson, are without all learning called Ophiogenes, that is, Serpents brood: but rather, that term belongeth more justly to those people, whose nature is sociable with Serpents, and Serpents agree with them, as they would do with their own kinde. Such an one was Exagon the Embassadour of Rome, who at the commandement of the Consuls, (for their experi∣ence) was cast naked into a vessel or tun of Snakes, who did him no harm, but licked him with their tongues, and so with great miracle, he was let forth again untouched; and yet there is no more rea∣son to say, that this man was born of the linage of Serpents, because those Men-enemies did not hurt him, then it was to say, that Daniel was born of Lions, because that the Lions did not harm him. Or that Romulus and Remus were born of the kindred of Wolfs, because a she Wolf did nourish them. We do read of many people in the World, which were surnamed of Serpents, all which may as well be deemed to be descended of such creatures, because of their name, as well as the other, who were by GOD for their innocency preserved from death.

Ebusus was called Colubraxia, and the people thereof Ophiussae, and in Arabia we read of the Ophi∣ades, both which are derived from Serpents, called in Greek, Opheis Eustathius also relateth a story of a man called Ophis. I omit to speak of the Ophitae and others; yet thus much I must needs say, that commonly such names have been given to Serpents, for some cause or accident, either faignedly or truly derived from Serpents. So we read of Ophion, a companion of Cadmus, and a builder of Thebes, who was said to be made by Pallas of a Dragons tooth. Likewise the Spartanes were called Oph••odeiroi * 1.38 by Pythius, because in a famine they were constrained to eat Serpents.

S. Augustine maketh mention of certain blasphemous Heretiques, who were called Ophitae, because they worshipped a Serpent, and said that the Serpent which deceived our first Parents Adam and Evah, was Christ. Wherefore they kept a Serpent in a Cave, whom they did nourish and wor∣ship, which at the charm of the Priest would come out of his Cave, and lick the Oblations which they set upon his Den; rowling and folding himself round about them, and then would go in again: then did these abominable Hereticks break these oblations into the Eucharist, and receive them as sanctified by the Serpent. And such also is the story of Coelius Rhod. where he tearmeth the great Devil Ophioneus, whom both holy Scripture, and ancient Heathen say, that he fell out of Heaven. But all these things are but by the way, upon occasion of that unnatural conceit of those men called Ophiogenes: that is, descended or begotten by Serpents. Therefore I will return where I

left, namely, to the hatred of Men to Serpents, and of Serpents to Men again: In testimony where∣of, there have been mutual slaughters, namely Men which have killed monstrous Serpents, and Ser∣pents which have killed men again.

Hercules being but an Infant, (as Poets faign) killed those two Serpents which Juno sent to his * 1.39 cradle to destroy him; for Juno is said to be much offended at his birth, because he was begotten by Jupiter upon Alomena; and therefore there was reserved the Image of Hercules at Athens, strangling a Serpent. But Pierius maketh of this fiction a good moral or Hieroglyphick, when he saith, that by Hercules strangling of the Serpents in his cradle, is understood, how those men which are born for any great enterprises, should kill their pleasures while they be young. I need not to stand long upon this point, for it is evident, that to this day there are many Hyades, both men and women, which are not afraid to kill the Serpents brood. But such as have perished by Serpents, I mean men of any note, are also expressed, whereof Ovid writeth of Aelacos, the son Priamus and Alixothoes, who following the Nymph Hesperia, (with whom he was in love) was suddenly killed by a Snake biting his foot. So were Apaesantus, Munitus, Eurydice, Laocoon, Opheltes the son of Lycurgus King of Nemea, Orestes, Id〈…〉〈…〉 and Mopsus, slain by Serpents: whereof Opheltes, by the negligence of his Nurse Hypsiphile, leaving him ungarded in his cradle.

It is recorded by Aelianus and Pliny, that when a Serpent hath killed a Man, he can never more co∣ver himself in the earth, but in punishment of so vile an offence, wandereth to and fro, subject to infinite miseries and calamities, being not acknowledged by his female if he be a male, nor yet by the male if it be a female; and is forsaken of all his crew or society. The earth it self not daigning to entertain a man-murtherer into her bowels, but constraining him to live Winter and Summer abroad upon the open earth. And thus hath the Divine Providence dispensed his justice, that he suffereth not murther of men to be unpunished among the greatest haters and ene∣mies of men.

What monsters therefore are they which have Serpents in their delights, and admire that in them which should be hated of all men. And how base were those minded Grecians, which worshipped * 1.40 the Serpent for a God? Or the Athenians, which kept a Serpent in their Temple, for an opinion that the same did conserve their Tower or Castle from all enmity. Jupiter was also worshipped in many places in the shape of a Serpent. And the ancient Borussians worshipped a natural Serpent of the earth. It is strange to consider the errour of the King of Calechut, who doth as severely punish the slaughter of a Serpent, as he doth the slaughter of a Man; and not only restraineth his subjects from harming them, but also buildeth for them little coats, wherein they safely lodge in the Winter time. And the cause of this errour, is their conceit, that they think Serpents are Divine powers dropped out of Heaven, which they prove, because when they sting fiercely, they quickly kill, and dispatch their enemy suddenly. Wherefore they think that no creature can kill so speedily, except an Angel of God. Some of the Heathen had their Ophio••ephale Beasts with Serpents heads, which they did worship for a God. And the Poet Virgil hath an excellent description of Aeneas his sacri∣ficing * 1.41 to the ghost of his Father Anchises.

—Adytis tum lubricus anguis ab imis Septem ingens gyros septena volumina traxit Amplexus placide tumulum, lapsusque per aras Caeruleae cui terga notae, maculosus & auro Squammam incendebat sulgor: ceu nubibus arcus Mille trahit varios adverso sole colores, Obstupuit visu Aeneas, ille agmine longo Tandem inter pateras, & laevia pocula Serpens Libavitque dapes, rursusque innoxius imo Successit tumulo, & depasta altaria liquit.

Which may be thus Englished;

Then from the hollow holes, a sliding Snake appeared, Which seaven ways did winde and turn, and dead-mans tomb embrace, Gliding along the Altar from, and back, with colour cleered, By Sun-shine-light, like spots of gold each varied to the face A thousand hiews; whereat Aeneas marvelled: but yet at last, This Snake the holy dishes, and smoothest cups of choice Did hast to touch, like as it would the sacreds tast, And so sunk down from Altar clean, without both harm or noise.

And to make an end of this Section, of the Antipathy betwixt Men and Serpents, that whoso∣ever * 1.42 is of the Womans seed, may profess himself an enemy to the Serpent, let him but consider how that hateful monster Heliogabalus, having by the help of the Marsick Priests gathered together many Serpents, one day in the morning, when the people were gathered together to see some rare and unheard of spectacle, suddenly he let loose the Serpents, and hurt many of the people. Tzetzes telleth another story, of a devise or warlike stratagem, how Serpents by slings or trunks, were sent abroad among the Camps of their enemies. So doth Galen, of Serpents included in an earthen pot, and cast like darts among the Tents of the Romans. And so did Hannibal shew to Antiochus, how in a battel by Sea, he might shoot Serpents among the Mariners to his Enemies, and hinder their row∣ing: ••or when he did follow the same devise at Prusiae, he went away Victor and Conqueror. And thus I will conclude this part, with the Emblem of Alciatus, which he wrote unto the Duke of Milli•••• * 1.43 upon his Arms, being an Infant proceeding out of a Snakes jaws.

Exiliens Infans sinuosi è faucibus anguis, Est Gentilitiis nobile stemma tuis. Talia Pelleum gessisse numismata regem Vidimus, ••••sque ••uum concelebrasse genus, Dum se Ammone satum, matrem anguis imagine lusā, Divini & sobolem numinis esse docet. Ore exit, tradunt sic quosdam enitier angues, An quia sic Pallas de capite orta Jovis?

In English thus;

Out of the mouth of winding Snake, Great Duke, this is thy Crest, A leaping Infant making scape From jawes, a wofull rest: The like Coat did Pelleus King Ʋpon his silver presse, As we have seen, the fame to sing Of Kindreds worthinesse. For whiles of Jove he glorieth, Descended of his race, He feigns his mother like a Snake, Born of Divinest grace. But why proceeding from the mouth? Some Serpents so are bred, Or else that Pallas issueth Out of great Jove his head.

And the like by the same Author is expressed upon this Theam, That the wisdome of man is foolish∣nesse with GOD; therefore upon the unnaturall conjunction of two mortall enemies, framed into one body, he thus writeth elegantly;

Quid dicam, quodnam hoc compellem nomine Monstrū? B••forme quod non est homo, nec est draco. Sed sine vir pedibus, summis sine partibus anguis, Vir angui-pes dici, & homiceps anguis potest: Anguem pedit homo, hominem ructavit & anguis, Nec finis hominis est initium, nec est fera. Sic olim Cecrops doctis regnavit Athenis, Sic & Gigantes terra mater protulit. Haec vafrum species, sed & religione carentem Terrena tantum quique curet induat.

That is to say;

What shall I call? or how this Monster rightly name? Biformed, which nor man nor Dragon, in all the same. But man unlegged, and Snake unheaded: doubtfull parts, Man▪snake, Snake-man, exceeding humane arts. Mans tail breeds Snake, and Snake a man up-casteth, One end is not of man, nor other of wilde beast tasteth. Such one was Cecrops, learned Athens King, And Giants such did earthly mother bring. Mishapen then, an earthly minde expresseth, Devoid of grace for worlds good only wisheth.

Thus then I will leave to talk of our most just (and by GOD ordained) hostility, betwixt men and Serpents, and descend to a particular discovery, how Serpents and other beasts are for mans sake at the like enmity. And first of all I will begin with the Fowls, and so descend to Four-footed beasts, and Insects, or imperfect creatures.

Eagles are alway in warre with Serpents, from an high they espy them, and suddainly flie down upon them, with a great noyse or cry, tearing out their bowels, and casting aside their venom or poyson. And some (as Albertus) say, that they will in particular deal with Vipers, Tigers, and Dragons, when she seeth them hunting those small beasts or birds which are her prey. This fight is thus described by Virgil, how the Eagle griping the Serpent in her talons, flyeth into the air.

Ʋtque volans alte raptum cum fulva draconem Fert Aquila, implicuitque pedes, atque unguibus haesit. Saucius & Serpens, sinuosa volumina versat, Arrectis horret squammis, & sibilat ore, Ardu••s insurgens: illa haud minus urget adun•••• Luctantem rostro, simul aethera verberat alis.

In English thus;

As Eagle flyeth on high, and in her clawes a Dragon beareth, Folded within her feet, wounded, dying to her talons cleaveth. The Serpent fierce now windeth round, and with her head erected, Hissing out threats, rough scales upsetteth that were dejected, To fright her ••o: but all in vain, for she with beak doth strive, And beat the air with wings of force, till Dragon cease to live.

There is in the seventh book of Aelianus History of living Cretures, a notable and elegant story of an Eagle which was almost overcome by a Serpent, and yet preserved and made Conquerour by a man. There was (saith he) sixteen men which were threshing of corn in the heat of the Sun, by reason whereof they became very thirsty, then they agreed to send one of their company to a Fountain not far off, to fetch some water for them all to drink; and so the Messenger coming to the Fountain, found an Eagle almost killed by a Serpent: for whiles from an high she beheld the Serpent, being more greedy of the prey for to feed her young, then wary to avoid danger, fell down upon her booty, which was too strong for her; for the Serpent received her adversary with fell force, power, and preparation to stifle her, and so indeed she had accomplished, had not by chance this thresher come unto them: for the Serpent had so ensnared and wrapped up the

Eagle with her long body, that she was nearer ad pereundum quam ad perdendum, that is, to be kil∣led, then to kill, or get a prey. The Man beholding the sight, with his sickle cut asunder the Serpent, and so delivered the Eagle: but how the Eagle requited the Man, shall be shewed in the history of the Eagle.

In the Mountains of Morfilium, there are great store of great Serpents, which are very dangerous, but there are also great white Eagles, which do eat and destroy them. Some say that the Vulture doth destroy Serpents, but herein I cannot be satisfied, for all Eagles do not hunt after this game, but only the lesser sort of them. Eagles when they build their nest to breed in, they seek out a certain * 1.44 stone called Aëtites, the vertue whereof keepeth Serpents from their young, and also make their eggs fruitful, so as it is a very rare thing for Eagles to have a rotten egge.

All kindes of great Hawks, Bussards and Kites, are also enemies to Serpents, Snakes, and Adders, and the Kites will eat them, if they finde them alive or dead, as I my self have often seen by experi∣ence. The Storks also do hunt after Serpents, wherefore in Thessaly, it is as unlawful to kill a Stork as * 1.45 to kill a Man; for they have many devises to catch Serpents, and all venomous Beasts, and thereof to eat without harming themselves: and not only eat themselves, but give thereof to their young ones, as Juvenal witnesseth:

—Serpente ciconia pullos Nutrit, & inventa per devia rura lacerta.

In English thus;

The Stork her young ones, according to kinde, In Serpents and Lizzards, do their meat finde.

Sometimetime they fight together irefully, and the Serpent strangleth the Stork by twyning about her neck; again, the Stork killeth the Serpent by pecking upon her head, and so sometimes they are both found dead together. As the Eagle hath the stone Aëtites, so hath the Stork Lych∣nites, to defend herself and her young ones from the rage of Serpents. There is (as Oppianus writeth in his Ixeuticis) this vulgar story in Italy. There was a certain Serpent, which came two years toge∣ther to the nests of divers Storks, and destroyed their young ones, neither could all the Storks make sufficient force against her with all their might to save their brood. The third year the Ser∣pent came again to attempt the like slaughter; but there among the Storks she found a certain strange Bird never seen before, being shorter then the Storks, and yet had a great long sharp bill, as sharp as the point of any sword. This Bird (as it seemeth) was brought thither by the Storks to guard their young ones, when the Parents were gone abroad to forrage for them. Then, assoon as the young ones were hatcht, out cometh the Serpent from his hole, and beginneth to assail the nests of the Storks, but the guardian Bird, (according to the trust committed to her) re∣sisted the Serpent, and pecked at her mortally with her sharp beak. The Serpent to end his adversary, nimbly advanced himself upright, and endeavoured to reach the Bird, but the wary Bird soared so high above his reach, that the langrel Serpent could not catch him, and so they con∣tinued in fight, till at last the Bird killed the Serpent, after that the Serpent had once only fastened his venomed teeth upon the Bird, which afterward so wrought upon this Bird, that all her feathers did flie off from her back.

But of all other Fowls enemies to Serpents, there is none greater or more deadly, then the Bird called Ibis, which the Egyptians do wonderfully honour; for when swarms of Serpents come in∣to * 1.46 Egypt, out of the Arabian gulfs and fens, these Birds meet and destroy them: and there is such an admirable fear in Serpents of these Birds, that they do not only tremble, and fall senseless at their sight, but also at the sight of their feathers: they do harm to no other living thing, except Locusts and Caterpillers, wherefore they are worthily nourished, and called Inimicae & populatores Serpentum, enemies and destroyers of Serpents.

All kinde of Pullen, as Cocks and Hens, are likewise enemies to the brood of Serpents. And a good couragious Cock, (as Columella saith) is able to kill and resist a Serpent. For, (as Rondoletius saith) he hath found in the crop or craw of Pullen, young Serpents devoured by them. But from whence Al∣bertus had his relation, that a Hen cannot be hurt that day by a Serpent wherein she layeth an Egge, I cannot tell, and therefore leave it to the Reader to believe or refuse.

And it is also said, that the flesh of Hens applyed to the bitings of Serpents, doth cure them, or * 1.47 else cause a Hen to sit upon the wounded place; but if the Beast which is wounded, be a Cow with Calf, or any such other femal with young, howsoever it fareth with the old one, surely the young ones shall perish.

There is also another Bird, which for his combating with Serpents, is termed Ophiomachus, a fighter with Serpents. Although Gesner be of opinion, that Ophiomachus never signifieth a Bird. Of this * 1.48 Bird the Septuagints make mention, Levit. 11. but many of the better learned, do interpret it for a Lizard, or a Locust, or an Ichneumon. The peacock also is a terrour to Serpents, so as they will not abide within the hearing of his voyce, for it is perpetual with all venomous beasts. And the Vul∣ture, as we said before, is a terrour unto them, insomuch as one of their feathers burned will by the savour of the smoak drive away the Serpent. And to conclude, the Swallows also are at variance with the Serpents brood, for the Snake will creep up to the Swallows nest, and therein suddenly surprize the young, for the old ones will fly away chattering, and chirping in mournful sort, not

being able to hinder or resist their chick-devouring foes. But at the last, when they see all their young ones dispatched, as if they could not endure to live for, sorrow, or else thinking it possible to fly into the snakes belly to fetch out again their devoured young ones, they fall down upon their enemies jaws, doing what they can to make them devour and swallow them up also. And thus * 1.49 much for the hatred betwixt fowls and Serpents: Wherein, although they kill the Serpent, either in their own defence, or else for raven and prey, yet may we admire the prudence of the most mighty Creator, who hath so disposed of his power, that he causeth the Fowls of Heaven to revenge Mans quarrel upon the Serpents of the earth, by whose subtilty Man was plucked from Heaven, and they made subject to corruption.

In the next place, God hath also framed an opposition betwixt Serpents, and the Beasts of the earth and water, which live with Serpents in the same Element, that so they might be both annoyed at home and abroad. I will therefore begin with the Dog, who is a notable enemy to the Serpents, as I my self have seen many in England, for he will earnestly seek them out with nose and foot, both in waters, dunghils, and hedges, and when he hath found any one, he will suddenly snatch him into his mouth, biting him about the middle, and so holding it in equal poyse, will sling and shake it about his ears very fast and violently, till he perceive it can stir no more, and then suddenly again setteth it fall out of his mouth to the earth; but if it begin to stir, he snatcheth it up again, and shaketh it about his ears as before, and so never giveth over till it appear dead: but they seldom kill them, only they astonish them, and so may a young childe knock out their brains. Howbeit, when they fight in defence of their Masters, then they kill them, by biting them in pieces. And yet is it more safe for them, to astonish them, and leave them for dead, by shaking them about their ears, then by biting them in pieces, for that commonly then, while they share them a sunder, they are stung or bitten by the Serpent. And this I have seen often in mine own experience. But one of the greatest enemies of Serpents are Harts, a timorous beast of all other, and yet greedy to combat with the Serpent, wherefore I will briefly describe this their war and hatred, out of Solinus, Aelianus, Plutarch, and Oppianus.

The Hart will greedily follow out the path of the Serpent, and finding it lodged in his den or hole, by the vertue of his nose draweth it out of the Earth, and thereof some have derived Ela∣phos, a Hart, of Elaunein tous opheis, that is, driving away of Serpents. And herein I think it not rea∣son to follow the opinion of Aelianus, who intreating of Harts drawing Serpents out of the earth, saith, that the Serpent is inticed and allured out of her hole, by the breath of the Hart, as by a Phil∣tre or Cup of love; for seeing that there is so great an hostility, and antipathy in nature, betwixt their whole disposition, how can it come from any secret sympathy, that the Serpent (which is the subtillest of of all beasts) should be bewitched with the love of his enemies breath? But if it be said that Serpents, which are by nature very cold, can easily be drawn forth by a warmer breath, as it were by the sweet beams of the hot Sun; how then falleth it not out, that when any other Beast breatheth upon their lodging, and into their dens, they are not removed? But let it be granted that the warmness of the Harts breath, maketh him for sake his den, yet it cannot be ascribed to any secret in nature, as if there were a fire of love in the Harts throat or bones, but only from the natural con∣comitant quality of heat, with exspiration, respiration, and inspiration: and therefore I cannot but conclude, that there is not any possibility or probability in nature, that where the spirits, which take and make the breath, are at such variance, there the breath proceeding from the one adversary, should so inchant and beguile the other.

But the true cause of this extraction of Serpents out of their lodgings, is, as I conjecture, not her warm breath that allureth, nor yet scorcheth and burneth her adversary; but that when the Hart hath found the den of the Serpent, by her violent attraction of the air out from the Serpent, she en∣forceth it for the safegard of life to follow it out of the den. As when a vessel is broched, or vented, the Wine followeth the flying air; or as a Cupping-glass draweth bloud out of a scarified place of the body: and so is a Serpent against her will, drawn to follow the breath of her destroyer. Oriba∣sius and Gunterius do subscribe unto this opinion, and take it for most consonant to reason and truth, and therefore I will not follow it any further: for by the self same manner do the Sea-Rams draw the Sea-calfs out of their lodgings among the Rocks under the earth, for when they have found the Calf, they keep it from air, and prevent their refrigeration.

When the Serpent seeth himself so drawn forth by his adversary, he being above measure incensed to rage, flyeth away, and maketh his poyson more noisome, violent and powerful, for which cause, there was wont to be a Proverbial caveat or warning: Cave ne incider is in Serpentem, quum extracta à latebr is anhelitu cervi effugerit, tum enim propter iracundiam vehementius ei venenum ust. Take heed lest you meet with a Serpent flying away from the Hart, after she is drawn out of her den by her breath, for then, by reason of her rage, her poyson is more for cible. But I will proceed to the more strange and wonderful combate betwixt Serpents and Harts. For when the Serpent perceiveth the unavoid∣able danger, and that she must needs fight for her life, she hisseth strongly, lifting up her head from the earth, even to the throat of the Hart, and thereat catcheth and gnasheth with her teeth; but on the other side, the valiant Hart, (if such a word may be given to a fearful Beast) as it were deri∣ding his adversaries weak endevours to harm, suffereth the Serpent to winde about his breast and belly, and to embrace both neck and legs with his long and weak body, that so he may have the more power upon it, for he teareth it into an hundred pieces.

But the most strange combats are betwixt the Harts and Serpents of Lybia, where hatred hath his deepest footing, for there the Serpents watch the Hart when he lyeth down to sleep upon the ground, and being a multitude of them set upon him all together, fastning their poysonfull teeth in every part of his skin, some on his neck and breasts, some on his sides and back, some on his legs, and some hanging upon his privy parts, biting him with mortall rage, to end and overthrow him. The poor Hart being thus oppressed with multitude, and assailed without any warning to the battle, in vain attempteth to run away, for their cold earthy bodies, winding tayls, and pinch∣ing teeth, hinder his wonted pace, and overcharge his strength: whereat being forced to quit himself in the best manner he can, enraged, with teeth, feet, and horns assaileth his enemies, whose spears and arrowes of teeth and stings, stick so fast in his body; tearing them in pieces which he can touch with his teeth, beating others asunder where he can reach them with his horns, and trampling under his feet those which cleave to his lower parts: and yet such is the rage and dauntlesse courage, or rather hatred of these enemies, not willing to die alone, (but like Cham∣pions to end their lives upon and with their adversary) do still hold fast, and even when their bo∣dies are beaten in pieces, their heads stick close, and hang sharp upon the Harts skin, as though they would grow with him, and never fall off till he should also fall down dead. But the Hart feeling some ease, and having by the slaughter of their bodies delivered his feet from thraldome, by a divine naturall instinct, flyeth and runneth fast to some adjoyning fountain, where he seeketh for Sea-crabs, whereof he maketh a medicine, that shaketh off their heads which cleave so fast un∣to him, and also cureth all their wounds and poyson. This valiant courage is in Harts against Serpents, never yeelding, tyring, or giving over, and yet otherwise, are afraid of Hares and Co∣nies by nature.

But what is the cause of this hostility betwixt Harts and Serpents? Is it for meat, or for medi∣cine and cure? Surely they would abhorre to eat them, if it were not for health and naturall me∣dicine, for sometimes the pores of their body are dulled and shut up, sometimes the worms of their belly do ascend up into the roof of their mouths while they chew the cud, and there cleave fast; for remedy whereof, the Hart thus afflicted, runneth about to seek for Serpents, for the eating of a Serpent cureth this malady. Pliny saith, that when the Hart waxeth old, and perceiveth that his strength decayeth, hair changeth, and his body begins to be feeble, then for the renewing of his strength, he first devoureth a Serpent, and afterward runneth to some fountain of water, whereof when he hath drunk, he findeth a sensible alteration, both in horn, hair, and whole body, And this thing is also delivered by the Writer of the Glosse upon the 42. Psalm, which beginneth, Like as the Hart desireth the water springs, so longeth my soul after my GOD. But for the ending of this question, we must consider and remember, that there are two kindes of Harts, one eateth Ser∣pents, and feeling the poyson to work, straight-way by drinking casteth up the poyson again, or else cureth himself by covering all his body over in water. The other kinde only by nature killeth a Serpent, but after victory forbeareth to eat it, and returneth again to feed in the Moun∣tains. And thus much for the discord betwixt Harts and Serpents.

In the next place, great is the variance betwixt Serpents, Dragons, and Elephants, whereof Pliny and Solinus write as followeth. When the Elephants called Serpent-killers, meet with the Dra∣gons, they easily tread them in pieces, and overcome them, wherefore the Dragons and greater Serpents use subtilty in stead of might; for when they have found the path, and common way of an Elephant, they make such devises therein to intrap him, as a man would think they had the devise of men to help them, for with their tails they so ensnare the way, that when the beast cometh, they intangle his legs as it were in knots of ropes; now when the beast stoopeth down with his trunk to loose and untie them, one of them suddenly thrusteth his poysoned head into his trunk, whereby he is strangled. The other also (for there are ever many which lie in ambush) set upon his face, biting out his eyes, and some at his tender belly; some winding themselves about his throat, and all of them together, sting, bite, tear, vex, and hang upon him, untill the poor beast, emptyed of his blood, and swollen with poyson in every part, fall down dead upon his adversa∣ries, and so by his death kill them at his fall and overthrow, whom he could not overcome being alive. And whereas Elephants (for the most part) go together in flocks and troops, the subtile Serpents do let passe the foremost of every rank, and set only upon the hindermost, that so one of the Elephants may not help another; and these Serpents are said to be thirty yards long.

Likewise, forasmuch as these Dragons know, that the Elephants come and feed upon the leaves of trees, their manner is to convey themselves into the trees, and lie hid among the boughs, co∣vering * 1.50 their foreparts with leaves, and letting their hinder parts hang down, like dead parts and members; and when the Elephant cometh to brouze upon the tree-tops, then suddenly they leap into his face, and pull out his eyes, and because that revenge doth not satisfie her, thirsting only after death, she twineth her gable-long body about his neck, and so strangleth him.

It is reported that the blood of Elephants is the coldest bloud in the world, and that the Dra∣gons in the scorching heat of Summer, cannot get any thing to cool them except this bloud; for which cause they hide themselves in Rivers and Brooks, whither the Elephants come to drink, and when he putteth down his trunk they take hold thereof, and instantly in great numbers leap up into his ears, which only of all his upper parts are most naked and unarmed, out of which they suck his bloud, never giving over their hold till he fall down dead, and so in the fall kill them which were the procurers of his death. So that his and their bloud is mingled both together,

whereof the Ancients made their Cinnabaris, which was the best thing in the World to represent bloud in painting: Neither can any devise or art of man ever come neer it; and beside, it hath in it a rare vertue against poyson. And thus much for the enmity betwixt Serpents and Elephants.

The Cat also by Albertus is said to be an enemy to Serpents, for he saith she will kill them, but not eat thereof; howbeit, in her killing of them, except she drink incontinently, she dyeth by poyson. This relation of Albertus cannot agree with the Monks of Mesuen their relation about their Abby-cat. But it may be that Albertus speaketh of wilde-cats in the Woods and Mountains, who may in ravin for their prey kill a Serpent, which followeth with them the same common game.

The Roes or Roe-bucks do also kill Serpents, and the Hedge-hog is enemy unto them, for some-times they meet both together in one hole, and then at the sight of the Serpent, the Hedge-hog foldeth himself up round, so as nothing appeareth outwardly, save only his prickles and sharp bristles: the angry Serpent fetteth upon him, and biteth him with all her force; the other again, straineth herself above measure, to annoy the Serpents teeth, face, eyes, and whole body: and thus when they meet, they lie together afflicting one another, till one or both of them fall down dead in the place. For sometime the Serpent killeth the Hedgehog, and sometime the Hedge-hog killeth the Serpent, so that many times she carrieth away the Serpents flesh and skin upon her back.

The Weasels also fight with Serpents with the like successe; the cause is, for that one and other * 1.51 of them live upon juyce, and so for their prey or booty, they fall together in mortall warre. Herein the Weasel is too cunning for the Serpent, because, before she fighteth, she seeketh Rue, and by eating thereof quickly discomforteth her adversary. But some say, that she eateth Rue af∣terward, to the intent to avoyd all the poyson she contracted in the combat.

The Lyon also and the Serpent are at variance, for his rufling mane is discouraged by the extoll∣ed head of the Serpent to his breast. And therefore as S. Ambrose saith, this is an admirable thing, that the Snake should run away from the Hart, the most fearfull of all other beasts, and yet over∣come the Lyon, King of all the residue.

The Ichneumon or Pharos Mouse is an enemy to Serpents and eateth them, and because he is too seeble to deal with a Snake alone, therefore when he hath found one, he goeth and calleth as many of his fellowes as he can finde, and so when they find themselves strong enough in company, they set upon their prey, and eat it together; for which cause when the Egyptians will signifie weaknesse, * 1.52 they paint an Ichneumon. The Peacock is also a professed terror and scourge to Snakes and Adders, and they will not endure neer those places where they hear their voice. The Sorex and Swine, do also hate and abhor Serpents, and the little Sorex hath most advantage against them in the Winter-time, when they are at the weakest. To conclude, the Horse is wonderfully afraid of all kindes of Serpents if he see them, and will not go over, but rather leap over a dead Snake. And thus I will end the warre betwixt Serpents and Four-footed beasts and Fowls.

Now lest their curse should not be hard enough unto them, God hath also ordained one of them to destroy another, and therefore now it followeth to shew in a word the mutuall discord betwixt themselves. The Spider, (although a venemous creature) yet is it an enemy to the Ser∣pent; for when she seeth a Serpent lie under her tree in the shadow, she weaveth or twisteth a * 1.53 thred down from her web upon the head of the Serpent, and suddenly biteth into his head a mor∣tal wound, so that he can do nothing but only roul to and fro, being stricken with a Megrim, where∣by he hath not so much power as to break the Spiders thred hanging over his head, untill he be dead and overthrown. The Cockatrice is such an enemy to some kinde of Serpents, that he killeth * 1.54 them with his breath or hissing.

The Lizard a kinde of Serpent is most friendly to man, and very irefull against Serpents, to the uttermost of his power, whereof Erasmus (in his book of Friendship) telleth this story: I saw (saith he) on a day, a very great Lizard fighting with a Serpent in the very mouth of a Cave, at the first sight whereof I marvailed at the matter, for the Serpent was not visible out of the earth: there was with me an Italian, who said, that surely the Lizard had some enemy within the Cave. After a little while the Lizard came unto us, and shewed us his side all wounded, as it were cra∣ving help, for the Serpent had bitten him sore, for of green he made him appear red, and this Li∣zard did suffer himself to be touched of us. Thus saith Erasmus.

Again, in the same place he saith, that when a Lizard saw a Serpent lye in wait to set upon a man being asleep, the Lizard ran to the man, and never ceased running upon the mans face, scratching his neck and face gently with his clawes, untill he had awaked the man, and so discove∣red to him his great danger. The Locust also fighteth with a Serpent, and killeth him when he lusteth, for he getteth hold with his teeth upon his lower chap, and so destroyeth him; but this is not to be understood of every kinde of Locust, but only of one kinde, which for this cause is called Ophiomachum genus.

The Serpent is also an enemy to the Chamaeleon, for in the extremity of famine, she setteth * 1.55 upon them, and except the Chamaeleon can cover herself from his rage, he hath no defence but death. Albertus calleth a certain Worm, Spoliator colubri, because (as he saith) it will take fast hold upon a Serpents neck underneath his jawes, and never give over till he hath wearied and de∣stroyed his adversary. The Tortoises are enemies to Serpents, and will fight with them, but before they enter combat, they arm themselves with wilde Marjoram or Penniroyall.

But there is not any thing in the world that fighteth more earnestly against Serpents then Sea-crabs and Crevises, for when the Sun is in Cancer, Serpents are naturally tormented with pains and feavers, and therefore if Swine be stung or bitten with Serpents, they cure themselves by eating of * 1.56 Sea-crabs. There is a great water neer Ephesus, at the one side whereof there is a Cave full of many noysome and irefull Serpents, whose bitings by often probation, have been very deadly both to men and beasts. These Serpents do often times endevour to crawl over the pool; now on the other side, there are great store of Crabs, who when they see the Serpents come crawling or swimming, they instantly put out their crooked legs, and as it were with tongs or pinsers, reach at the sliding Serpent, wherewithall the Serpents are so deterred, that through their sight, and often remembrance of their unhappy successe with them, they turn back again, and never dare any more adventure to the other side. Where we may see the most wise providence of the Creator, who hath set Sea-crabs the enemies; of Serpents; to guard both men and Cattell, which are on the opposite side: for otherwise, the inhabitants would all perish, or else be drove away from their dwellings. To conclude, not only living Creatures; but also some kinde of earth, and Plants are enemies to Ser∣pents: And therefore most famous are Ebusus and Creet, as some say, although Bellonius say, that there are Scolopendraes Vipers, and Slow-worms in Creet, yet he saith they are without venom: and there are very few in England and Scotland, but none at all in Ireland, neither will they live if they be brought in thither from any other Countrey. This antipathy with Serpents, proceedeth from living to dead and vegetable things, as trees, herbs, and plants, as may be seen by this discourse following.

There is such vertue in the Ash-tree, that no Serpent will endure to come neer either the mor∣ning or evening shadow of it, yea though very far distant from them, they do so deadly hate it. We set down nothing but that we have found true by experience: If a great fire be made, and the same fire encircled round with Ashen boughs, and a Serpent put betwixt the fire and the Ashen boughs, the Serpent will sooner run into the fire, then come neer the Ashen boughs: Thus saith Pliny; Olaus Magnus saith, that those Northern Countreys which have great store of Ash-trees, do want venemous beasts, of which opinion is also Pliny. Callimachus saith, there is a Tree growing in the land of Trachinia, called Smilo, to which if any Serpents do either come neer or touch, they forthwith die. Democritus is of opinion, that any Serpent will die if you cast Oken-leaves upon * 1.57 him. Pliny is of opinion, that Alcibiadum, which is a kinde of wilde Buglosse, is of the same use and quality; and further, being chewed, if it be spit upon any Serpent, that it cannot possibly live. In time of those solemn Feasts which the Athenians dedicated to the Goddesse Ceres, their women did use to lay and strew their beds, with the leaves of the Plant called Agnos, because Serpents could not endure it, and because they imagined it kept them chaste, whereupon they thought the name * 1.58 was given it. The herb called Rosemary, is terrible to Serpents.

The Egyptians do give it out, that Polydamna, the wife of Thorris their King, taking pity upon Helen, caused her to be set on shore in the Island of Pharus, and bestowed upon her an hearb (whereof there was plenty) that was a great enemy to Serpents; whereof the Serpents having a feeling sense (as they say) and so readily known of them, they straightwayes got them to their surking holes in the earth: and Helen planted this herb, who coming to the knowledge thereof, she perceived that in his due time it bore a seed that was a great enemy to Serpents, and thereupon was called Helenium, as they that are skilfull in Plants affirm; and it groweth plentifully in Pharus, * 1.59 which is a little Isle against the mouth of Nilus, joyned to Alexandria with a Bridge. Rue, (called of some Herb of grace) especially that which groweth in Lybia, is but a back friend to Serpents, for it is most dry, and therefore causing Serpents soon to faint and lose their courage, because (as S〈…〉〈…〉∣catus affirmeth) it induceth a kinde of heavinesse or drunkennesse in their head, with a vertiginy or giddiness, through the excess of his driness, or immoderate siccity. Serpents cannot endure the savour of Rue, and therefore a Weasel when she is to fight with any Serpent, eateth Rue, as a de∣fensative against her enemy, as Aristotle, and Pliny his Interpreter are of opinion.

The Countrey-people leaving their Vessels of Milk abroad in the open fields, do besmear them round about with Garlick, for fear lest some venemous Serpents should creep into them, but the smell of Garlick, as Erasmus saith, driveth them away. No Serpents were ever yet seen to touch the herb Trifolie, or Three-leaved grasse, as Aedonnus would make us believe. And Cardan the Physitian hath observed as much, that neither Serpents nor any thing that is venemous, will lodge, dwell, not lurk privily neer unto Trifolie, because that it is their bane, as they are to other living Creatures: and therefore it is sown to very good purpose, and planted in very hot Countreys, where there is most store of such venemous Creatures. Arnoldus Villanovanus saith, that the herb called Dracoutes killeth Serpents. And Florentinus affirmeth, that if you plant Wormwood, Mugwort, and Sothern∣wood about your dwelling, that no venemous Serpents will ever come neer, or dare enterprise to invade the same. No Serpent is found in Vines when they flourish, bearing flowers or blossoms, for they abhor the smell, as Aristotle saith. Avicon an Arabian Physitian, saith, that Capers doe kill Worms in the guts, and likewise Serpents. If you make a round circle with the herb Betony, and therein include any Serpents, they will kill themselves in the place rather than strive to get away. Galbanum killeth Serpents only by touching, if Oyl and the herb called Fennel-giant be mixt withall. There is alshrub called Therionarca, having a flower like a Rose, which maketh Serpents heavy, dull, and drowsie, and so killeth them, as Pliny affirmeth.

Albertus and Kyranides affirm, that there is a certain Tree in Asia, called Hyperdiocis, which sound∣eth as much as Against the right hand, with whose sweet fruit Doves are delighted; but there are Ser∣pents which are sore enemies to the Doves: so lying in wait for them, and not being able to abide the smell & shadow of the tree, the Doves notwithstanding very safely do there in the tree seek their refuge, and finde food wherewith to sustain themselves. Rasis (who practised Physick one hundred years) affirmeth, that if any man do melt Sal Almoniack, in his mouth, and then spit it into a Serpents mouth, that he will die of it.

Of the Medicines made and taken ont of SERPENTS.

IT is manifest, that if any man be wounded of a Serpent, though the wound seem incurable, that * 1.60 the bowels or inward parts of the same Serpent, being applyed to the wound, will cure the same; and those that have eaten the liver of a boyled Viper at any time, shall never after be wounded of any Serpent. Neither is a Snake venemous, unlesse at some times of the Moon, when she is throughly moved or angred. And a live Snake or Serpent being caught, if the bitten place be bathed, soked, or washed with the Snake being bruised in any water, it is of notable effect. Besides, they are thought to be very soveraign against many infirmities, and therefore (as Pliny saith) they are dedicated to Aesculapius.

Avicen saith, that if any be troubled with the Leprosie, he is to be cured by taking a black Ser∣pent, 〈…〉〈…〉 being excoriated, he must be buryed so long till there breed Worms of him, and then he is to be taken forth of the earth and dryed, and so to be given to the leprous person for three dayes together, the quantity of one dram at every time, with syrup of Hony. Pliny, and with him agreeth Cornelius Celsus, affirmeth, that if any one do eat the middle part of Snakes or Ser∣pents, casting away the heads and tayls, they cure Strumes, which we in English call the Kings-evil. There is a disease called Ecephantia, or Elephantiasis, which is a kinde of Lepry proceeding of me∣lancholy, choler, and flegme, exceedingly adust, and maketh the skin rough, of colour like an Ele∣phant, with black wannish spots, and dry parched scales and scurf: This disease (I say) so grievous, and Strumes, are exceedingly holpen by eating often of Vipers and Serpents, as John Taganet in his first Book Institut. Chirurg. hath assured us.

Pliny saith, that if you take out the right eye of a Serpent, and so binde it about any part of you, that it is of great force against the watering or dropping of the eyes, by means of a rheum issuing out thereat, if the Serpent be again let go alive. And so he saith, that a Serpents or Snakes heart, if either it be bitten or tyed to any part of you, that it is a present remedy for the tooth-ache: and he addeth further, that if any man do taste of the Snakes heart, that he shall never after be hurt of any Serpent.

Paulus Venetus in his second Book, Chap. 40. writeth, how that in the Province of Caraiam, there be Serpents of exceeding greatnesse, which being killed, the inhabitants of the Countrey do pull out their gall, which they use to prize at a very high rate when they sell any of it, for it is very medicinal; so that they which are bit of a mad Dog, if they take inwardly in any drink but the quantity of a penny weight of this gall, they are presently cured. And if a woman be in her travail of childe-birth, if she taste never so little of this gall, the birth will be the more speedy. So if any be troubled either with the Pyles, or Hemorhoids in the fundament, if that the place be anoynted with this gall, after a few dayes he is set free from his disease. Hippocrates giveth the seed of Serpents as a remedy against the suffocation of the belly.

Nicholaus Myrepsus prescribeth this medicine against strains and hardnesses. Take a dead Ser∣pent and put him into a new pot, luting it very well with Gypsum, then set it in a furnace that it may be burnt, after that, commixe the ashes of a Serpent with an equall portion of the seeds of Fenugreek, so being wrought up with Attick Hony, and throughly digested, anoynt the place affected. And with him agreeth Pliny, who expresly affirmeth, that the ashes of Snakes and Ser∣pents, being anoynted upon Strumes, either with Oyl or Waxe, is a singular medicine. And like∣wise to drink the ashes of a Serpent that is burnt to powder in a new earthen pot, is very good: but it will be the more effectuall, if the Serpents be killed between two tracks or furrowes that are made with Cart-wheels. The ashes of a Serpent burnt with salt in a pot, being put with Oyl of Roses into the contrary ear, helpeth the tooth-ache.

An unguent against the Morphue, prescribed by Olaus Magnus. Take of the ashes of a Serpent burnt in a new pot, and well covered, two ounces, Lytharge, Galbanum, Ammoniacum, and Opoponax, dissolved in Vinegar, three ounces, boyl them untill the Vinegar be consumed, then strain them, putting to them of Turpentine three ounces, Frankincense, Mastick, and Sarcocolla three ounces, Saffron two ounces, working them with a Spathuler till they be cold. The powder of a burnt Ser∣pent, is likewise good against Fistulaes. The fat of a Snake or Serpent mixt with Oyl; is good against Strumes, as Pliny saith. The fat of Snakes mixt with Verdegrease, healeth the parts about the eyes that have any rupture. To which agreeth the Poet, when he saith:

Anguibus ••reptos adipes aerugine misce, Hi poterant ruptas oculorum jungere partes.

Which may be thus Englished;

The sat of Snakes mingled with Iron rust, The parts of eyes doth mend, which erst were burst.

It is certain that barrenness cometh by means of that grievous torment and pain in childe-birth; and yet Olympias of Thebes is of opinion, that this is remedied with a Bulls gall, the fat of Serpents, and Verdigrease, with some Hony added to them, the place being therewith anointed before the coming together of both parts. When a Woman is not able to conceive by means of weakness in the retentive vertue, then there is no doubt, but there must needs grow some membrane in the bel∣lies entrance, for which it is not amiss to make a Pessary of the fat of a Serpent, Verdigrease, and the fat of a Bull mixt together, &c. and to be applyed, Hippocrates in lib. de Sterilibus.

Gesner had a friend who signified to him by his Letters, that the fat of a Serpent was sent to him from those sulphureous bathes which were neer unto Cameriacum, and was sold at a very dear rate, namely, twelve pounds for every ounce, and sometimes deerer. They use to mix it with the em∣plaister of John de Vigo, (that famous Chirurgeon) for all hardnesses, and other privy and unseen (though not unfelt) torments proceeding of the Spanish pox. They use it yet further, against leprous swellings and pimples, and to smooth and thin the skin. Matthiolus saith, that the fat of a black Serpent, is mixt to good purpose with those Ointments that are prepared against the French or Spanish pox. And Pliny mixeth their fat with other convenient medicines, to cause hair to grow again. The suffmigation of an old Serpent, helpeth the monthly course. Michael Aloisius saith, that Oyl of Serpents decocted with the flowers of Cowslips, (ever remembring to gather and take that which swimmeth at the top) is singular to anoint podagrical persons therewith.

Now followeth the preparing of Serpents: Take a Mountain Serpent, that ha〈…〉〈…〉 black back, and a white belly, and cut off his tail, even hard to the place where he sendeth forth his ex∣crements, and take away his head with the breadth of four fingers; then take the residue and squeese out the bloud into some vessel, keeping it in a glass carefully, then fley him as you do an Eele, be∣ginning from the upper and grosser part, and hang the skin upon a stick and dry it, then divide it in the middle, and reserve all diligently. You must wash the flesh and put it in a pot, boyling it in two parts of Wine, and being well and throughly boyled, you must season the broth with good Spices, and Aromatical and Cordial powders, and so eat it. But if you have a minde to rost it, it must be so rosted, as it may not be burnt, and yet that it may be brought into powder, and the pow∣der thereof must be eaten together with other meat, because of the loathing, and dreadful name, and conceit of a Serpent: for being thus burned, it preserveth a Man from all fear of any future Le∣pry, and expelleth that which is present. It keepeth youth, causing a good colour above all other Medicines in the world; it cleareth the eye-sight, gardeth surely from gray hairs, and keepeth from the Falling-sickness. It purgeth the head from all infirmity, and being eaten (as before is said) it expelleth scabbiness, and the like infirmities with a great number of other diseases. But yet such a kinde of Serpent as before we have described, and not any other, being also eaten, freeth one from deafness.

You may also finely mince the heads and tails of Serpents, and feed therewith Chickens or Geese, being mingled with crums of Bread or Oates, and these Geese or Chickins being eaten, they help all to take away the Leprosie, and other foulness in Mans body. If you take the dryed skin, and lay it upon the tooth on the inner side, it will mitigate the pain thereof, specially if it proceed from any hot cause. In like sort, the same skin washed with spittle, and with a little piece of the tail laid upon any Impostume, or Noli me tangere, it will tame and master the pain, causing it to putrefie more ea∣sily and gently, and scarcely leaving behind any cicatrice or skar. And if a Woman being in ex∣tremity of pain in Childe-birth, do but tie or binde a piece of it on her belly, it will cause the birth immediately to come away. So the skin being boyled and eaten, performeth the same effects that the Serpent doth.

The bloud of a Serpent is more precious then Balsamum, and if you anoint your lips with a little of it, they will look passing red: and if the face be anointed therewith, it will receive no spot or fleck, but causeth to have an orient or beautifull hew. It represseth all scabbiness of the body, stinking in the teeth and gums, if they be therewith anointed. The far of a Serpent, speedily helpeth all red∣ness, spots, and other infirmities of the eyes, and being anointed upon the eye-lids, it cleereth the eyes exceedingly. Item, put them into a glassed Pot, and fill the same with Butter in the Moneth of May, then lute it with well with Paste, (that is, Meal well kneaded) so that nothing may evapo∣rate, then set the Pot on the fire, and let it boil welnigh half a day; after this is done, strain the butter through a cloth, and the remainder beat in a mortar, and strain it again, and mix them to∣gether; then put them into water to cool, and so reserve it in silver or golden boxes, that which is not evaporated, for the older, the better it is, and so much the better it will be, if you can keep it forty years. Let the sick Patient, who is tooubled either with the Gowt, or the Palsie, but anoint himself often against the fire with this unguent, and without doubt he shall he freed, especi∣ally if it be the Gout. All these prescriptions, were taken from the writings of a certain nameless Author.

Hippocrates saith, that a Hart or Stag having eaten any Serpents, the worms in their guts are thereby expelled. And Absyrtus hath the same words, that Harts by eating of a Serpent, do kill and expell worms from their guts. Hierocles, to a certain medicine which he prepared for the Stran∣gulion in a Horse, mingled the dung of a Lyzard, and Stear herpetuou, (that is, as I interpret it) the fat of a Serpent, the bloud of a Dove, &c. Laurence Rusius saith, that it is good to give the flesh and decoction of Serpents to madde, biting; and striking Horses. And that the fat of a Serpent, &c.

doth cure the puffing or swellings that arise in Horses backs, which come by means of any com∣pression, or close fitting and thrusting down.

Item, The unguent that droppeth from a Serpent, whilest he is rosted on a spit, is highly com∣mended for Fistulaes that are in Horses hoofs. Galen and Rasius do counsell us to cut in pieces a Snake or Serpent, and to lay the fat thereof upon a stick, and to anoynt the outward parts of the hoof of any Horse. Horseleaches, live Mice, the green Lizard being burned, if they be given to a Hawk in her meat, they do cause a speedy mutation of her feathers or wings; and the same effect have little River-fishes, finely beaten or stamped, if they be cast upon any meat.

Item, the Serpent that is speckled, and of divers and sundry colours, of all others hath the least poyson; and in the German tongue it is called Huf, (peradventure it is that which we call a Snake) if (I say) you take this Serpent, and boyl it with Wheat, and give the same Wheat to a Hen to feed up∣on, being mingled amongst her meat and drink with the venom of a Serpent; a Hawk being fed with the flesh of such a Hen, forthwith casteth her sick feathers, and is freed from any other disease, if she have any at all, as Albertus saith.

The old skin of an Adder or Snake, that he casts off in the Spring time, if it be rubbed upon the eyes, cleareth the sight, as Pliny saith. And Galen biddeth us, if any be troubled with bloud-shotten eys, to take the old cast skin of Serpents, & being beaten with Sea water, to anoint them therewithal. And Cardan saith, that the cast skin of a Snake, if the eyes be rubbed therewith every morning, that they will never be very dim of sight, nor yet ever have any pin or web in them, Amongst com∣positions that are made for the eyes, they use to mix the cast skin of Snakes, as Diocles affirmeth; adding further, that the old age, or cast skin of a Snake being boiled in Wine, is an excellent help for pain in the ears, if a little thereof be dropped into them. Boyl the cast skin of a Snake with tops of Poppy, and drop a little thereof into the ears, if any be troubled with spain thereof, and this is an excellent remedy, as Galen in his third Book, De Composit. medicam. s••c. loca, hath taught us, having himself learned the same from Archigenes. The cast skin of Serpents being burned in a pot, or on a hot burning tyle-shard, if it be mingled with Oyl of Roses, and so dropt into the ears, is proved to be very effectual against all sores, and sicknesses of the ears; but especially against the stinking favour of them: or if they be purulent or full of matter, then to be mixt with with Vine∣gar. Some use to mingle Bulls gall therewith, and the juyce of the flesh of Tortoises being boyled.

Marcellus saith, that if you take the gall of a Calf, with a like quantity of Vinegar, and mix them with the cast skin of a Serpent, if then you dip a little Wooll into this medicine, and put it into the ear, that it helpeth very much, especially if with a spunge being soked in warm-water, you first foment the ear. Diosoroides and Galen do affirm, that the cast skin of a Serpent, if it be boiled in Wine, doth cure the tooth-ach, if the pained place be washed therewith. But yet, in intolerable pain〈…〉〈…〉 the teeth, this is proved more singular. Take the cast skin of a Serpent and burn it, then temper it with Oyl, till it come to the thickness or consistence of hard Honey, and cover the tooth (being first scoured and cleansed therewith, anointing all the neer places to the same, and put some of it into the hollowness of the tooth. And as Archigenes saith, if you lay the cast skin of a Snake unto the teeth, not being burnt, they will all fall out. It cureth likewise the lowsie evill called Phihiriasis. And Galen prescribeth this cast skin of Snakes or Serpents, for a re∣medy against the Colick, if it be put into a brass pot with some Oyl, and so burnt to pow∣der, if then it be dissolved in Oyl, and the place therewith anointed, it is of great vertue. And if it be boiled in a Tin vessel with some Oyl of Roses, it remedieth the Bloudy-flix, and such as be troubled with Tenesmus, which is, a great desire in going to stool, and yet can do nothing.

Arnoldus de Villa nova, in his Breviary saith, that if you take the cast skin of a Serpent, Opopanax, Myrrhe, Galbanum, Castoreum, yellow Sulphur, Madder, Pigeons or Hawkes dung, and incorpo∣rate them with the gall of a Cow, they being first pulverised, and the fume thereof received through a tunnel at the lower parts, it bringeth forth either the dead or living birth. Cardan lib. de Subtil. saith, that the cast skin of a Serpent burned in the full of the Moon, and entring into the first de∣gree of Aries; if the ashes thereof be sprinkled on the head, that thereby terrible and fearful dreams will follow. And if the face be anointed or washed therewith, being first laid in water, that it will cause one to look very fearfully and horribly: and if it be held under the tongue, it will make one very wise and eloquent: and if it be kept under the soals of the feet, it maketh one very gracious among Princes, Magistrates and Great men. And another saith, that this cast off skin being pul∣verised when the Moon is in her increase, and in the first degree of Aries, if the powder thereof be set on the table, in a wooden or metalline dish; if any poyson be therein, it will be dispersed and do no hurt, and yet the powder will remain safe and whole: and if given to a Leprous person, his disease will spread no further. And if you put a little of this powder into any wound, it will cure it within three days. I have seen (saith Galen) Goats that have eaten of the boughs and leaves of Ta∣marisk, and I have found them without a Spleen: also I have seen other Goats that have lickt up Serpents after they had cast their skin; and I have proved, that after that, they have grown very white, and to have kept their young years a great while; so that it was long before they waxed old.

Of the way to drive away Serpents. Of their poyson and bitings.

A certain and sure way to cure those who either have been poysoned, invenomed, or bitten by them.

TO expell and drive farre away any venomous Creatures, we use to make fumigations of the * 1.61 root of Lillies, Harts-horn, and the horns and hoofs of such beasts as be cloven footed: likewise of Bay-leaves and berries, Calamint, Water-cresses, and the ashes of the Pine-tree. The leaves of Vitex, Bitumen, Castoreum, Melanthium, Goats-horns, Cardamomum, Galbanum, Propolis, which may be called Bee glew, the herb called Horstrange, Panax, Opopanax, Fleabane, the shavings or serapings of the Cypresse or Cedar tree being steeped in Oyl, the Jet-stone, Sagap••num, the herb called Poley, Fern, and all other things that have a strong or vehement ill savour, being cast on the coals for a fumigation, do with their vapour chase away venomous beasts. For whereas all veno∣mous Creatures have the passages or pores of their bodies very straight and narrow, they are very easily filled and stuffed, and are quickly stopped and suffocated by such like sents and smells.

Aetius in his thirteenth Book setteth down an excellent fume after this manner. Take of Galbe∣num, of Sandracha, Butter, and of Goats-fat, of every one alike much, make them into Pills, and use them for a fumigation. Nicander in Theriacis setteth down some for the same intentions, in these Verses.

Cervinique gravi cornu nidore fugabis: Et sic cum accendens Gagatae quandoque lapillum, Quem consumentis non exedit impetus ignis: Multifidam filicem crepitantibus injice flammis, Aut imas viridis libanotidos accipe fibras, Tantundemque acris nasturci: his junge duobus Aequali capreae jam jactum pondere cornu, Aut exiccantem nares cerebrumque nigelam, Interdum Sulphur, foedum quandoque B••••••men, Ʋt sumpta aequali pendantur singula parte. Praeterea graveolens candentibus indita prunis Galbana, & ignitum faciens urtica dolorem, Dentatisque cedrum maxillis sectile lignum, Omnibus invisum Serpentibus eflat odorem.

In English thus;

By Hart-horn fume do Serpents slide away When stone Gagates burning's put thereto: Which heat of fire doth not clean destroy: Then int' those flames cast many-leaved Fern also. Of green hogs-fennel, take the lowest branches, Of Nosewort sharp, so much: then to them joyn A like proportion of Roes horn in weight and kantches, Or else Nigella, drying nose and brain, Or Brimstone, called filthy Sulphure, So all be equall in weight and parts to cure. Besides, Galbanum rank, laid on burning coals, Or nettles, which do cause 〈…〉〈…〉ry pain, And Cedar cut, all burn'd bout Serpents holes, Them overcome, and make them flie amain.

The breath or vapour that issueth from Serpents is so pestilent, that it killeth all young chic∣kins, as Columella saith; and for preventing of this mischief, it is good to burn Harts-horn, Wo∣mens hair, or Galbanum.

Vis & mirificos cautus perdiscere odores, Accensis quibus arcetur teterrima Serpens, Aut Styracem uras, aut atri vulturis alam, Vel Nepetam aut frondem rigidae stirpemque myricae.

In English thus;

If thou wouldst learn what cdours for thy skill Were best to scare the Serpent fierce away, Burn Styrax, or black Vultures winged quill, Or Neppe, green leaves, or stock of Tamarisk assay.

And Pliny and Sextus agreeing with him, do say; that if you burn the feathers of a Vultur, all Serpents will quickly avoid the strong sent thereof. There is a certain River in the Countreys of Media and Paeonia, (as Aristotle testifieth) wherein there is a stone found, with whose fume Serpents are chased away: whose property is such, that if any man cast water on it, it will burn, and burn∣ing, if with any Fan you go about to make it to flame, it is straightway quenched; and thus being extinguished, it sendeth forth a savour stronger then any Brimstone. And to this subscribeth Ni∣cander in these words.

Veltu Threicium flamma succende lapillum, Quilicet irriguis mersus tamen ardet in undis, Expressaque statim resting uitur unctus oliva, Hanc quem fluctisoni mittant de littore P〈…〉〈…〉i, Qui, rudevulgus, ibi vescentes carne magistri Pascendi pecoris sua post armenta sequuntur.

In English thus;

Or take the Thracian stone, which set on fire Will burn in water, yet quenched is with Oyl. This cast from Pontus shore, Heard-men desire, The better to feed their flocks, and Serpents foyle.

The powder of a Cedar tree, putteth to flight venomous Serpents, as Virgil in the third of his Georgicks witnesseth.

Disce & odoratum stabulis accendere Cedrum, Galbaneoque agitare graves nidore chelydros.

Which may be Englished thus;

Learn how of Cedar, fire in thy folds to make, And with Galbanums savour, put to flight the Snake.

Things that are strewed or said under us, both in our houses and in high-wayes or beds, will like∣wise * 1.62 defend and keep us from venomous creatures: as for example; Southernwood, Dittander, Flea-bane, Calamint, Gentian, Hastula regia, Sage, Nightshade, S. Johns wort, called of some Fuga daemo∣num; Marjoram, Origan, wilde Rue, wilde Thyme, Bay-leaves, the shavings or tops of the Cy∣pres or Cedar-tree, Cardamomum, Penyroyal, Wormwood, Mugwort, Lysimachia, called in English Loose-strife, and Rosemary. And if we cannot lie upon such a bed;

Tunc juxta virides sinuosi vorticis alveos, Amnicolam nepetam per ••besas collige ripas. Aut tibi costa salix, pulchro quae flore renidet, Praebeat, instrata securum fronde grabatum. Sic quoque montanum polium, cujus grave spirans Horret odor, nomenque suum qua debet echidnae Herba, & ab Euxina quae fertur origanus urbe, Quaecunque illarum decerpitur obvia, prodest. Quin etiam multo per aprica cacumina flore Ridens abrotonus, pecorique ingrata petitum Pabula serpyllum, molli quod pascitur horto. Praestat item exiguam circumlustrare conyzam, Ʋrticeasque comas, & spinosas anagyros: Sic & punicea sectis ex arbore ramis, Regalisque amplis licet hastae frondibus uti. Accipe item innocuo medicantem frigore strumum, Atque invisa pigris Scyra prima aestate bubulcis. Nicander.

In English thus;

Then by the winding banks of crooked streams The Water-nep take up, which under-foot is tread, Or the chast Osier, whose fair flower hath beams And leaves, secure from Serpents make thy bed. The Mountain Poley, whose strong smelling breath The snakes abhor, & that which doth the hydra name, The Origan which cometh from Euxinus earth, Doprofit all gainst Serpent, if you bear the same. The smiling Southernwood, which groweth on tops of hills, Wilde Marjoram, to beasts abhorred food, Conyza strewed, the haunt of Serpents spills, The Nettle-crops, thorny Anagres stay their mood, So do Pomegranate branches cut from tree; And the broad leaves of Kingly Hasta use, Strume, bealing strumes in harmless cold I see, And Scyra, which in Summer Neatheards do refuse.

In like sort, to sprinckle the place with water, where in Sal Ammoniaoum is dissolved, driveth away Serpents, as Avicen affirmeth.

If any one anoint himself either with Dears-sewet, the fat of Elephants or Lions, Serpents wil shun * 1.63 that person: and there be some, (as Pliny saith) that for fear of Serpents, do anoint their bodies with the seeds of Juniper. The juyce of the black Vine extracted from the root, and anointed on the body, performeth the like. For preservation from Serpents, Nicander compoundeth this ointment. Take two Vipers about the end of Spring time, Deer-sewet thirty drams, Ʋn∣genti rosati thirty six drams, crude Oyl of Olives as much, commix them with nine ounces of Wax, boil the Serpents till the flesh fall from the bones, which you must cast away because they are venomous.

They that will yet be more assured, let them anoint their bodies with a thin cerate, made of Wax, Oyl of Roses, a little Galbanum, some powder of Harts-horn, or else Cummin-seed of Aethiopia, &c. Aetius. If a man carry about him the tooth of a Stag, or those small bones which are found in his heart, he shall be secured from Serpents. If any one do bear about him wilde Bugloss, or the root of the wilde Carot, he cannot be wounded of any Serpents, Grevinus is of the minde, that the Jet-stone, beside other manifest qualities, hath yet this as peculiar to it self, that he which carryeth it about with him, need neither to fear Serpents, nor any other poysons.

Now for venomous beasts, which are found in any houses, the best way is to pour scalding water into their dens and lurking holes. And if any man (constrained by necessity) can finde no other place to sleep, but such a one as where Salamanders, the Spiders called Phalangia, or the like Serpents do abound, it is good to stop the holes and corners with Garlick beaten with water, or some of those herbs which before we have spoken of. But yet men now adays hold it the safest course, to pour un∣quenched Lime sprinkled with water into their dens and secret corners.

As they that are bitten by a mad Dog, so all such persons be wounded by venomous creatures, are in exceeding great danger, unless at the first they receive speedy help and succour; The safest way therefore to cure the poyson, is by attractives, which draw from the more inward parts to the surface, and not to make too much post-hast in closing up the wound. But if any one hath swallowed down, and taken inwar〈…〉〈…〉 any poyson, the best way is (as Dioscorides writeth) to vomit often; but if any be wounded by biting, then it is best to use scarification, and to fasten Cupping-glasses upon the place affected, to draw out the poyson. Some use to suck the venom out, and others to cut off and dismember the part. And this is to be observed, that if any one will undertake to suck out the renom, the party that attempteth it must not be fasting; and besides, he must wash his mouth with

some Wine, and after that, holding a little Oyl in his mouth, to suck the part••, and to spit it pre∣sently forth. And before Cupping-glasses be applyed, the part must first be fomented with a Spunge, then scarified deeply, that the venomous matter may the more speedily be drawn out from the more inward parts; and yet cutting off the flesh round in a compass, doth more good then any scari∣fication.

But if the place will admit no section or incision, then cupping-glasses, with deep scarification, with much flame, must needs be used: for by attraction of the bloud, and other humors with windi∣ness, the poyson it self must of necessity follow. And Aetius in his 13. Book and tenth Chapter, coun∣selleth that the sick person be kept from sleep, and so sit still, until he finde some ceasing or relea∣sing from his pain. Besides, the member which is envenomed, ought to be be bound round about, that the poyson may not too easily convey it self, and penetrate into the more noble and principal parts, as the heart, liver, or brain. And in this manner having applyed your Ligature, you must by the advice of Fumanellus, set on your Cupping-glasses, and they being removed, apply the herb Cala∣mint upon the place, and to give the patient some of the root of Mugwort in powder, or the best Treacle, and such Cordials as do corroborate the heart; and for this intent, Bugloss, Borage, Balm, and any of their flowers are much commended.

A Dove or Pigeon being divided in the midst, and applyed hot to the place affected, attracteth poyson to it self, and healeth. And the same effect and vertue have other living creatures, as namely, Hens and Chickens, young Kids, Lambs and Pigs, if they be set to in the beginning, immediately after the Cupping-glasses be removed, for being as yet hot and warm, they draw out the poyson, and mitigate pain. But if neither any one for love or money can be found, that will or dare suck out the venom, and that no Cupping-glass can be provided, then it is best that the patient do sup of Mutton, Veal, or Goose broth, and to provoke vomiting. Yet they that will more effectu∣ally and speedily give help, use to kill a Goat, and taking out the entrails, with the warm dung there∣in found, forthwith binde unto the place.

The learned Physitian Matthiolus, in his Comment upon Dioscorides, saith; that to avoid the dan∣ger that cometh by sucking out the venom, men now adays use to apply the fundament of some Cock or Hen, or other Birds after the feathers are puld off, to the wounded place, and the first dy∣ing, to apply another in the same order, and so another and another, until the whole venomous matter be clean driven away: whereof one may be certainly assured, if the last Hen or Bird so ap∣plyed, do not die. Avicen the Arabian saith, that the Physitians of Egypt, (in which Countreey there be infinite store of venomous Beasts) do hasten to burn the part with fire, as the safest and surest remedy, when any one is this way endangered: For fire not only expelleth poysons, but many other grievances. But the way how they used to burn with fire, was divers in these cases: For sometimes they used to sear the place with a hot Iron, and other whiles with a cord or match being fired, and sometimes scalding Oyl, and many other devises they had with burning medicaments, to finish this cure, as saith Hieron. Mercurialis in his first book De Morb. Venenatis writeth, and John Ta∣gault, Institut. Chirurg. lib. 2. saith, that the wound must first be seared with a hot Iron (if the place can endure it) or else some caustick and vehement corroding medicine must be used: for all such wounds are for the most part deadly, and do bring present death, if speedy remedy be not given: and therefore, according to Hippocrates counsel, to extream griefs, extream remedies must be applyed; so that sometimes the safest way is to take or cut off that member, which hath either been bitten or wounded.

Neither am I ignorant (saith Dioscorides) what the Egyptians do in these cases: For when they reap their Corn in Harvest time, they have ready at hand prepared, a pot with pitch in it, and a string or band hanging at it; for at that time of the year they are most afraid of Serpents, which then chiefly do hide themselves in dark holes, and caves of the earth, and under thick clots and turffs, for Egypt aboundeth with such venomous and poysonful creatures. When as therefore they have wounded ei∣ther the foot or any other part, they that are present, do put the string into the pot of pitch, and binding the place, they fall to cutting it with some instrument round in compass as the string is tyed, after this done, they pour in of the pitch a sufficient quantity, then untying and loosing the band, they lastly anoynt it with Garlick and Onions.

A certain Countryman being bitten of a Serpent, perceived by and by his foot to swell, and by little and little the force of the poyson to swell up higher, and nearer to the heart, the Castle of life: who being taught and instructed of an old woman, to bury his foot under the earth, and to cut a a Hen into two parts to apply to the wound, and to the Hen she wished him to lay a live Frog, who continually sucking the bloud from the Hens flesh, might by this means at length attract and draw all the poyson into it self. So when he had held his foot a whole night covered and buryed under the earth, and finding no abatement, but rather an increase of his tormenting pain; at length by the advise and direction of a certain Noble Matron, he drank a good draught of Theriaca and Hony tempered in Ale, and so after a few hours fell on a great and continual vomiting, by which means he was perfectly freed from the pains of the upper parts of his body, his fe〈…〉〈…〉 notwithstanding conti∣nuing in their former swelling: which was also taken clean away, only by drinking the milk of a black Goat, so much in quantity at a time as one Egge-shell would contain, his foot in the mean space being held or plunged in a sufficient quantity of the same milk. From which there issued and ran a foul stinking glutinous and snivelly matter, and this he was admonished to do by a cer∣tain Priest. But yet afterwards by chance, washing himself in a hot sunny day in a certain River,

and sitting upon the bank, his feet hanging down into the water, and he falling fast asleep, (he knew not well how long time he so continued) at length awaking, he plainly perceived the water that was neer, on all sides to be filthy, stained and polluted with much stinking matter, and as it were dreggy, refuse and feculency, and from that time forwards, he remained well and lusty, and as sound as a Bell.

Another time a Maid being bitten of a Serpent, laid presently upon the wound some fresh Cheese made of the milk of a white Goat, and pouring or sprinkling her foot with the milk of the same Goat, as a defensative for that part, was by this means restored to her former health, as a certain learned man testified in his Letters written to Gesner.

Vegetius affirmeth, that if any living creature be bitten and wounded of venomous Beasts, the place which is hurt, must first of all be suffumigated with Hens Egge-shels burnt, which first ought to be infused in Vinegar, with a little Harts-horn, or Galbanum. After fomentation, the place must be scarified, and the bloud must be let out, or else the place must be seared with a hot Iron, so far as the venom stretcheth. And this care must be had, that the Cauter be never applyed and laid either above the joynts, or sinewy parts at any time, for the sinews or joints being seared and burnt, there must of necessity a continual weakness and debility follow. Therefore great diligence must be used, that neither a little above, nor a little beneath the nerves and joynts, we lay any Cauteri∣zing medicine, yea, although necessity biddeth us. But it is also requisite that every one thus wounded, do gently and easily provoke sweating with warm clothes cast upon him, and afterwards to walk up and down, and to take Barley-meal in his meat, with some leaves of the Ash-tree, and the white Vine added to it. And to the wound it is good to apply Attick Honey, or Cummin heated and parched, and so mixed with old Wine. Some use to mix new Hogs dung and Attick Hony tem∣pered together with Wine, and so being warmed, to apply it as a Cataplasm, adding to it some urine of a Man.

I have said before, that young Chickens being dissected or cut in pieces when they are warm, ought to be laid to the stinged part: and some there be that yeeld this reason why they should be good for this purpose, because (say they) there is a natural antipathy betwixt them, and venomous creatures. But this reason is reasonless, and I think rather, that Hens or young Birds, being of a very hot nature and complexion, do easily concoct and digest notablepoyson, and their sto∣macks do consume most dry and hard seeds, which the strongest man living cannot do; which may easily also be proved by this argument, that many times by their ravening, they swallow down sand and little stones, which they do easily dissolve, and their crops very soon discharge, without any of∣fence to them at all. And therefore the spirits of an invenomed person, being helped and refreshed with the lively and strong natural heat of these sowls thus applyed, and receiving and acquiring strength from the part wounded, and so hastily leaping out as it were, and quickly sparkling forth, they do expel, shut and draw out the poyson.

Now, after we have described the general method of curing this mischevious evil, we will now descend to particular remedies, observing ever this rule and order, that first I will speak of such means as are topical, or such as are outwardly applyed; and next of such as be taken inwardly, and in both of them I will first describe compound, before I speak of simple medicaments. This one Lesson you must carry with you, that many remedies are prescribed and set down, which be not only good for the bitings of Serpents, but also for the bitings and stingings of all other venomous creatures, as namely, of Scorpions, Tarantulaes, Spiders, and the like. But yet, sith these do pro∣perly respect Serpents, I will in this place set them down: beginning first (according to my pro∣mise) with such compounded medicines, as are applyed outwardly for the help against the stinging of Serpents.

Theriaca Andromachi applyed Plaister-wise, is natable for this purpose. So there be other vehe∣ment strong Plaisters, whose vertue is to attract, expel, and discuss venom, of which are those which are made of Salt, Niter, Mustard-seed, and Rosemary-seeds, Dittany, or Dittander, and the root of Chamaeleon: and this that followeth is of singular vertue. Take of the scum, froth, or spume of Silver one pound, Ceruse, and of the best Turpentine, of either as much as of the former, old Oyl three pounds, Wax six ounces, Ammoniacum Thymiama, four ounces, and of Galbanum as much: boyl the Ceruse, the scum of Silver, and the Oyl so long, that they will not cleave unto the hands, then melting the other ingredients, incorporate them all together, and use them when need is for any bitings, &c.

There is an Emplaister fathered upon one Epigonus, and bearing his name: for this Epigonus be∣ing in close Prison, and condemned to die, for revealing this Medicine had his Pardon granted him, and was freely discharged, because he therewith healed the daughter of the Emperour Mar∣cus: for being forely wounded by a Serpent in her breast, and all other Physitians despairing of help, yet with this she was recovered. It is also good for all new and old Ulcers, and for such as are either bitten by any kinde of venomous creeping Worms and Serpents. Take of Squamma eris, (which is the scales and offal of Brass, blown from it in melting) of Ammoniacum, Aloes hepatica, Verdigrease, of Ae•• ustum, of Frankincense, Sal ammoniacum, Aristolochia rotunda, of every one half an ounce, Turnep-seeds three scruples, of the root of Dragon-wort half an ounce, seeds of Mugwort nine scruples, pure Wax five pound, of Colophenia one pound, old Oyl three ounces, sharp Vinegar half a spoonful, Mustard-seed three scruples, Spodium nine scruples, Stone-allum and Opopanax, of either half an ounce: Infuse the metalline ingredients for three days space in

Vinegar, and beat and powder them together, melting those that are to be melted, then sprinkle on those that are dry; and all of them being throughly wrought and made up, according to the form of an Emplaister, use them where necessity requireth.

Antonius Fumanellus, a late Physitian, prescribeth an experimented, and (as he calleth it) a divine Oyl against any poyson taken into the body, or the biting of any venomous Beasts and Serpents, whether it be received inwardly by drinking it down, or anointed outwardly upon the body, and this is it that followeth. Take of Oyl of Olives one pound, the flowers and the leaves of the herb called S. Johnswort bruised, boyl them for the space of three hours, and strain them, then boyl again other fresh flowers and leaves of the same herb and strain them hard, and do so again the third time, then add to them of the roots of Gentian and Tormentil, of either one ounce, boyl and strain them as you did before, and reserve this Oyl for your use.

Andreas Matthiolus in his Commentaries upon Dioscorides, doth exceedingly commend Oyl of Scor∣pions, because being anointed upon the pulses outwardly, it is (as he affirmeth) a singular remedy, not only against any poyson taken inwardly into the body by the mouth, but for the bitings and stingings of any venomous creature whatsoever. The way to prepare and make it, he describeth at large, in his Preface upon the sixt Book of Dioscorides, which I think needless here to describe to avoid tediousness; therefore if any one be desirous to know the composition of it, let him read Matthiolus in the place before cited. Unquenched Lime mixed with Hony and Oyl, and applyed to the place the thickness of a cerote, is good against the wounds that come by any venomous Beasts biting.

Now I think it meet to set down those simple medicaments which are outwardly to be applyed, either by laying on, or by anointing, against the sting and venomous biting of Serpents. It is best first to foment the sore place with hot Vinegar, wherein Catamint hath been boyled, and in stead of Vinegar, one may take Salt-water, or Southernwood, Maidenhair and Garlick, either in drink, meat, or to be used as an Ointment. The root of Aram, and Astrologe, and the leaves of the true Daffadil, and Oyl of Balm, is most effectual: also Bdellium, and the root either of the white or black Beet, is good against the bitings of Serpents.

Betony, Coleworts, especially the wilde Coleworts, Calamint, the leaves of the wilde Fig-tree, Centory, Onions, Germander, Chamaeleon, the herb called Fleabane, wilde Carrets, Rocket, Heath, Fennil, Figs, Winter Cherries, Enula Campana, Barly-meal, the Day-lilly, Hysop, the Flower-deluce∣root, Horehound, Balm, Water-cresses, Basil, Origan, Plantine, Leeks, Turneps, Madder, R••e, Ver∣ven, Mustard-seed, Scabious, and Saint Johnswort, all these plants are greatly praised amongst the Writers of Physick, for the mischiefs abovesaid.

Pliny is of opinion, that the bowels or entrails of Serpents themselves, being applyed, will surely cure the wounds of all other Serpents, although they seem incurable. A live Serpent being caught, if it be bruised, beaten and stamped in water, and the hurt place fomented therewith, will assuredly help and do much ease.

Quae nocuit Serpens, fertur caput illius aptè Vulneribus jungi, sanat quae sauciat ipsa, Ʋt Larissea curatus Telephus hosta. Qu Serenus.

Which may be thus thus Englished;

What Serpent hurteth, Men say by long experience, His head applyed doth cure: for where the wound, The help is also made, as in Telephus sense, Harm'd by Larissus spear, by it was cured found.

And Guil. Varignana saith, divide or cut a Serpent, and lay it upon the place, and it will miti∣gate the anguish and pain. The seed of Thraspi and of Tithimal (which is a kinde of spurge) is great∣ly used for this; Aut Tithimallus atrox, vulnus quae tuta perungat. Some besides these, do put the root of black Hellebore into the wound, because it draweth out the poyson, as I by mine own experience can testifie, saith Matthiolus.

There be also sundry Antidotes and Preservatives which are taken inwardly, that are very effe∣ctual against the bitings of Serpents and venomous beasts, as namely that, which is called Theriaca Andromachi, or Mithridate, and the like compositions. Galen in his Book De Theriaca ad Pisonem, pre∣ferreth Theriaca Andromachi before all other medicines either simple or compound, for virulent wounds; because it performeth that effect for which it is ministred. For it was never as yet heard, that ever any one perished of any venomous hurt or biting, who without any delay forthwith drank this medicine: and if any man had taken it before he received any such dangerous hurt, if he were set upon and assailed by any poysonous creature, it hath not lightly been heard that he hath dyed of the same. There be many Antidotes described by the Ancients, which they set down to be admira∣ble for thesepassions: As for example, that which Avicen tearmeth Theriaca mirabilis, whose compo∣sition is as followeth. Take of Opium and of Myrrhe, of either of them a dram, Pepper one dram and a half, the root of Aristolochia longa and rotunda, of each of them three drams, Wine two drams; make them up with Hony and Rocket water, so much as is sufficient for an Electuary: the quantity to give, is four scruples, relented in some fit and convenient decoction.

King Antiochus, surnamed Magnus, had a kinde of Theriaca which he used against all poysons, which is described of Pliny in his 20. Book and last chapter in this wise. Take of wilde Thyme, Opopanax, and the herb called Gromel, of each a like much, two drams, Trifolie one dram, of the seeds of Dill, Fennil, Smallage, Anise, and Ameos, of every one alike six drams, of the meal of Orobus twelve drams: all these being powned and finely searsed, must with Wine a sufficient quantity, be made into Tro∣chisces, whereof every one must weigh one dram, give thereof one dram at a time in a draught of Wine. There is another Antidote and preservative against any poyson, described by Paulus Aegi∣neta, much like unto this, which is thus: Take of Bryony, Opopanax, of the root of Iris Illirica, and of the root of Rosemary, and of Ginger, of each of these three drams, of Aristolochia five drams, of the best Turpentine, of wilde Rue, of each three drams, of the meal of Orobus two drams; make them into Trochisces with Wine, every one weighing one scruple and a half, or two scruples to be given in Wine.

Galen in his second Book De antidotis, chapter 49. discourseth of a certain Theriacal medicament, called Zopyria antidotus, (so taking the name of one Zopyrus) which was notable against all poysons, and bitings of venomous creeping creatures. This Zopyrus in his Letters written unto Mithridates, sollicited him very much, that he would make some experiment of his Antidote: which as he put him in minde he might easily do, by causing any one that was already condemned to die, to drink down some poyson aforehand, and then to take the Antidote: or else to receive the Antidote, and after that to drink some poyson. And put him in remembrance, to try it also in those that were wounded any manner of way by Serpents, or those that were hurt by Arrows, or Darts, anointed or poysoned by any destroying venom: So all things being dispatched according to his praemonition, the Man (notwithstanding the strength of the poyson) was preserved safe and sound by this alexipharmati∣cal medicine of Zopyrus.

Matthiolus in his Preface upon the sixth Book of Dioscorides, entreating of Antidotes and preserva∣tives from poyson, saith; that at length, after long study and travail he had found out an Antidote whose vertue was wonderful and worthy admiration; and it is a certain quintessence extracted from many simples, which he setteth down in the same place. He saith it is of such force and efficacie, that the quantity of four drams being taken either by it self, or with the like quantity of some sweet senting Wine, or else with some distilled water, which hath some natural property to strengthen the heart; if that any person hath either been wounded or strucken of any venomous living thing, and that the patients life be therewith in danger, so that he hath lost the use of his tongue, seeing, and for the most part all his other senses, yet for all that, by taking this his Quintessence, it will recover and raise him as it were out of a dead sleep, from sickness to health, to the great astonish∣ment and admiration of the standers by. They that desire to know the composition of this rare preservative, let them read it in the Author himself, for it is too long and tedious to describe it at this time.

There be besides these compounds, many simple medicines, which being taken inwardly, do per∣form the same effect, as namely the Thistle, whereupon Serenus hath these verses following:

Carduus & nondum doctis fullonibus aptus, Ex illo radix tepido potatur in amni.

That is to say;

The root of Teasil young, for Fullers yet unfit, Drunk in warm water, venom out doth spit.

That Thistle which Qu. Serenus here understandeth, is properly that plant which of the Greeks is called Scolymos. Yet it is taken sometimes for other prickly plants of the same kinde, as for both the Chamaeleons, Dipsacos, or Labrum Veneris, Spina alba, Eryngium, and some other. But Dioscorides attributeth the chiefest vertue against poysons, to the Thistle called Chamaeleon albus, and to the Sea∣thistle called Eryngium marinum, which some call Sea-hul, or Hulver: for in his third book and ninth chapter, entreating of Chamaeleon albus, he saith thus; The root of it taken with Wine inwardly, is as good as Treacle against any venom: and in the 21 chapter of the same Book, Eryngium, is (saith he) taken to good purpose with some Wine, against the biting of venomous creatures, or any poy∣son inwardly taken. And the same Serenus adscribeth to the same vertue to the Harts curd or rennet, as followeth.

Cervino ex soetu commixta coagula vi••o Sumantur, quaeres membris agit atra venena.

In English thus;

Wine mixt with Rennet taken from a Hart, So drunk, doth venom from the members part.

He meaneth a young Hart, being killed in the Dams belly, as Pliny affirmeth also the same in his 8. Book and 30. chapter in these words; The chiefest remedy against the biting of Serpents, is made of the Coagulum of a Fawn, kill'd and cut out of the belly of his Dam. Coagulum, is nothing else but that part in the belly which is used to thicken the Milk.

Proderit & caulem cum vino haurire sambuci. Qu. Serenus.

Which may be Englished thus;

In drink, the powder of an Elder-stalk, Gainst poison profiteth, as some men talk.

That vertue which Serenus here giveth to the stalk of Dwarf Elder, (for that is meant in this place) the same effect Dioscorides attributeth to the root in his fourth Book, and Pliny to the leaves. The herb called Betony is excellent against these foresaid affects, and by good reason, for the great∣est part of poysons do kill through their excess of coldness, and therefore to overcome and resist them, such means are necessary, by which natural and lively heat is stirred up and quickned, and so the poyson hindred from growing thick together, and from coagulation.

Again, all men do agree, that those medicines are profitable which do extenuate, as all those do which have a property to provoke urine, and Betony is of this quality, and therefore being taken with Wine, it must needs do good in venomous bitings, and that not only in the bitings of Men and Apes, but in Serpents also. Radish also hath the same quality, being taken with Vinegar and Wa∣ter boiled together, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 else outwardly applyed, as Serenus affirmeth.

Sive homo, seu similis turpissima bestia nobis Vulnera dente dedit, virus simul intulit atrum, Vetonicam ex duro prodest assumere Baccho. Nec non & raphani cortex decocta medetur, Si trita admor••is fuerit circumlita membris.

In English thus;

If Man, or Ape (a filthy beast most like to us) By biting wound, and therein poyson thrust, Then Betony in hard Wine steeped long, Or rinde of Radish sod as soft as pap, Do heal, applyed to the members st••••g.

There be certain herbs and simples, as wilde Lettice, Vervin, the root called Rhubarb, Agarick, Oyl of Oliander, and the leaves of the same, the seeds of Peony, with a great number a little be∣fore described, that being taken either inwardly or outwardly in juyce or powder, do cure poyson, yea though it be received by hurt from envenomed arrows, shafts, or other warlike engines and weapons: for the Arabians, Indians, the Galls (now tearmed French-men) and Scythians, were wont to poyson their arrows, as Paulus Orosius in his third Book testifieth of the Indians, where he writeth, how Alexander the Great, in his conquering and winning of a certain City, under the go∣vernment of King Ambira, lost the greatest part there of his whole Army with envenomed darts and quarrels. And Celsus in his fifth Book saith, that the ancient Galles were wont to anoint their arrows with the juyce of white Hellebore, with which they they did great mischief. Pliny affirmeth the same to be used of the Scythian Nation. The Scythians (saith he) do anoint their Ar∣row-heads with the corrupt, poysonous, and filthy stained dreggy bloud of Vipers, and with Mans bloud mixed together: so that the wound seemeth to be incurable. And to this alludeth Quintus Serenus.

Cuspide non quisquam, longa neque caede sarissae, Fulmine non gladii, volucris nec felle sagittae, Quàm cito Vipereo potis est affligier ictu: Quare aptam dicamus opem, succosque manentes.

Which may be thus Englished;

There is no Man with Spear or Launces point, Sharp edge of Sword, or swift Arrows might, To kill so soon, as Vipers force doth dint: Then fit is the aid and means that it acquite.

There is a certain kinde of people to whom it is naturally given, either by touching or suck∣ing, to cure the wounding of venomous Serpents, called Psylli, (a people of Lybia) and Marsi, people of Italy, bordering upon the Samnites, and Aequiculania, and those that were called by the Ancient Writers Ophiogenes, which dwelt about Hellespont, as both Pliny, Aelianus, and Aeneas Sylvius do witness.

Callias in his tenth Book of the history which he wrote of Agathocles the Syracusan saith, that if any man were bitten of a Serpent, if either a Lybian by birth, or any Psyllus, whose body was accounted venom to Serpents, was either purposely sent for, or came that way by chance, and saw the wound but indifferently, and not very sore tormenting the Patient, that if he did lay but a little of his spittle upon the biting or stroke, that presently the aking and pain would be mitigated. But if he found the sick Patient in great and intolerable anguish and pain, he took this course i•• his curation, that first he would suck and draw up into his mouth a great deal of water, and first ri••se and wash his own mouth therewith, and after this, pouring it all out of his own mouth into a cup, he would give it to the poor wounded person to sup off. Lastly, if the malignity and strength of the venom had crept and spread it self very far and deep into the body, so that there was danger of death, then would he strip himself stark naked, and so lie and spread his body

upon the naked body of the sick person, and so by this way of touching, break the malice and quality of the poyson, and give perfect cure to the man. For more confirmation hereof, Nicander Colophonius, is sufficient au••hority, whose verses I will here describe.

Audivi Libycos Psyllos, quos aspera Syrtis Serpentumque ferax patria alit populos, Non ictu inflictum diro, morsuve venenum Laedere: quin laesis ferre & opem reliquis, Non vi radicum, proprio sed corpore juncto.

Which is in English thus;

The people Psylli bred in Lybia Land Neer Syrtes, where all Serpents do abound, Are never stung nor bitten by that band Ʋnto their harm, or any bodies wound: But straight one naked man anothers burt doth heal, No roots, but bodies vertue danger doth repeal.

Some of the Greeks have left in writing, that the Idolatrous Priests and Prelates of the God Vulcan, that dwelt in Isle Lemnos, had a special vertue given them to cure those who were wounded by Ser∣pents: whereupon it is said, that Philoctetes being wounded by a Serpent before the Altar of Apollo, went thither to be remedied of his hurt. Cornelius Celsus saith flatly, that the people called Psylli had no such peculiar gift in healing them that were hurt of Serpents, either by sucking or touching the place, but being boldly adventurous, had presumed thereby to attempt and do that, which others of less courage had no stomach to do: for whosoever durst be so confident as to follow their example, should be himself out of danger, and assure the other safe and free from fear of further hurt.

Galen in his book De Theriaca ad Pisonem, manifestly sheweth, that the Marsi, who lived in his days, had no such special quality against the poyson of Serpents, but that with their crafty dealing, and knavish tricks, they beguiled the common people. For saith he, those Juglers and Deceivers do ne∣ver hunt Vipers at any convenient time, but long after the prime of the year and Spring, wherein they cast their skins, when as they are weak, and have lost their strength, and are very faint: then do they take them, and so by long use and continuance, teach them, and inure themselves one to ano∣ther, and bring it so to pass, that they wil feed them with strange and unaccustomed meats to their na∣ture; yea they will permit them to tast of flesh, and constrain them to be continually gnawing and biting of the same, that by their so labouring and striving, their poyson may by little and little be spent, and purged out of their bellies. Besides all this, they give them a kinde of bread made of milk and flour, that by this means the holes in their teeth may be stopped: and so by this laborious course of dieting them, they bring the matter so about, that their bitings are very weak, and do small annoyance to any that they strike at. So that the seers and lookers on, account it a thing exceeding common reason and nature, and blaze it abroad for a miracle.

Matthiolus also, a Physitian of late days, agreeth with him in this point, affirming expresly, that these kinde of trumperies and crafty fetches are much put in practise in these times, by such bold and impudent Quacksalvers, Mountebanks, and couseners of plain Countrey people, who dare face it out, lie, faign and cog, that they are descended from the race and linage of Saint Paul, wherein they shew themselves notorious lyers, &c. Thus far Matthiolus.

Serpents do sometimes creep into the mouths of them that are fast asleep, whereupon a certain Poet saith;

Non mihi tunc libeat dorso jacuisse per herbdnt.

Which may be Englished thus;

Then would I not upon the grass, Lie on my back where Serpents pass.

For if a man sleep open mouthed, they slily convey themselves in, and winde and roll them round in compass, so taking up their lodging in the stomach, and then is the poor wretched man miserably and pitifully tormented; his life is more bitter then death, neither feeleth he any release or mitiga∣tion of his pain, unless it be by feeding this his unwelcome guest in his guest-chamber, with good store of milk, and such other meats as Serpents best like of. The only remedy against this mischief, is to eat good store of Garlick, as Erasmus in his Dial. De Amicitia saith. Cardan saith, how that it was re∣ported for a certain, that a Viper entring into a Mans mouth being asleep and gaping with his mouth, the venomous Worm was expelled only with burning of Leather, and so receiving the stink∣ing fume at his mouth, the Viper not enduring it, he escaped with life. But of this more in our dis∣course of the Viper.

A certain man called Ciss••s, being very devout in the service, and much addicted to the worship of the God called Serapis, being treacherously wound in and intrapped, by the crafty wiliness of a cer∣tain woman, which first he loved and afterward marryed, when by her means he had eaten some Ser∣pents egges, he was miserably vexed, and torn and rent with disquiet and torment through all his bo∣dy, so that he seemed to be in great hazard of present death. Whereupon, forthwith repairing and * 1.64 praying heartily to this his God, for his help and deliverance, he received answer, that he must go and buy a live Lamprey, and thrust his hand into the vessel or place where it was kept and preserved; which he forthwith did, and the Lamprey caught fast hold on his hand, biting hardly, and holding fast by the teeth: and at length, when she was pulled from her fast hold, the sickness and grievous tor∣ment of his body was plucked away, and he freely delivered from that threatning danger. Thus far Aelianus.

The Conclusion of this General Discourse of SERPENTS.

HAving thus discoursed of the medicinal qualities in Serpents, and the remedies which Almighty GOD in nature hath provided against their venom, now for a conclusion, I will add some other natural uses of them, and shut up all in Moralities, and in sundry ways to take them.

There were certain Amazons, as Pierius noteth, that in their warlike preparations and Arms, did * 1.65 use the skins of Serpents. And to the intent that this may not seem strange, the Tragladytes did ••at Serpents and Lyzards, for they lived in Caves in stead of Houses, and their voyce was not a signi∣ficant voyce, but a kinde of scrietching, like gnashing. And for these causes, Serpents are very much afraid of any one of this Nation. Likewise certain of the Candeans were called Ophiophagi, that is, Eaters of Serpents; and one part of the people of Arabia eat Snakes. But in India, Ethiopia, * 1.66 and an Island in the Ocean, found out by Jambolus, there are Serpents which are harmless, and their flesh very sweet and pleasant to be eaten: So are there in Macinum, a Province of Asia. In Manzi in the upper India, and Caraia, they sell the flesh of Serpents in open Markets. These Serpents are called Juanae, and the common people are forbidden to eat them, because they are very delicate, even as Pheasants, Partridges and Peacocks are in France. Yet is there but one way to dress them, which is, to roul them in Lard, and so to seethe them. For first they bowel them, then wash them * 1.67 and fold them up together round, putting them into a pot no bigger then to receive their quantity; upon them they cast Pepper with water, and so seethe them upon wood and coals that will not smoak. With this Lard there is made a broth sweeter then any Nectar, which they use in many banquets of great account.

But for the taking of Serpents, I will yet add one or two more experiments, wherein the Anci∣ents revenged themselves upon these irreconcileable enemies of Mankinde. They did use to set in∣to * 1.68 the earth a deep pot, whereinto all venomous creatures would gather and hide themselves, then came they suddenly and stopped the mouth of that vessel, whereby they inclosed all that were taken, and so making a great fire, cast the said pot of venomous Serpents into the same, which consumed them all. Otherwise they took a living Serpent, and digged in the earth a deep Well or pit so sleep, as nothing at the bottom could climbe up to the top thereof, into this pit they would cast this Ser∣pent, and with her a brand of fire, by means whereof the enclosed Serpent would fall a hissing for her life, at the hearing whereof, her fellows of the same kinde, were thereby easily invited to come at her call to give her relief, (as we have shewed elsewhere) who finding the noise in the bottom of the pit, do slide down of their own accord, whereby they likewise intrap themselves in the same pit of destruction.

But the Juglers or Quack-salvers take them by another course, for they have a staffe slit at one end like a pair of tongs, those stand open by a pin, now when they see a Serpent, Viper, Adder or Snake, they set them upon the neck neer the head, and pulling forth the pin, the Serpent is inevi∣tably taken, and by them loosed into a prepared vessel, in which they keep her, and give her meat. It is reported, that if a Serpent be strucken with a Reed, she standeth still at the first blow, as if she * 1.69 were astonished, and so gathereth herself together; but if she be so strucken the second or third time, as one delivered from her astonishment and fear, she recollecteth her wits and strength, and slideth away. The like observation unto this, is that of the Ancients, that a Serpent cannot be drawn out * 1.70 of her den by the right hand, but by the left, for they say, if one lay hold on her tail by the right hand, she will either slide farther into the earth from him, or else suffer herself to be pulled in pieces, never turning again, and therefore saith mine Author, Non cedit trahenti, sed elabitur fugiens, aut certe * 1.71 abrumpitur, she yeeldeth not to him that draweth her, but slideth away, flying from him, or else suf∣fereth herself to be pulled in pieces in the combate.

The sundry Hieroglyphicks, statues, figures, Images, and other moral observations about Serpents, are next here to be expressed, which the Ancients in their Temples, Shields, Banners, Theatres, and publique places had erected for their honours and dignity. And first of all in the Temple of Delphos, near the Oracle, there was placed the Serpent which provoked Apollo to fight with him, wherein it was by him slain. And the Hermopolitans, did reserve the Image of Typhon, in a Sea-horse, whereupon * 1.72 sat fighting a Hawk and a Serpent: by the Sea-horse they signified the Monster Typhon, by the other beasts, as namely the Hawk and the Serpent, how by this principality and government, which he had gotten by violence, he troubled both himself and others.

Hercules had in his shield certain Serpents heads, pictured with these verses.

Bis sena hic videas, stridentibus effera flammis, Colla venenato vultu maculosa draconum. Tum magis offenso spirantia gutture virus, Quam magis Alcides effuso sanguine pugnat.

Which may be Englished thus;

Of Dragons heads twise six here maist thou see, Raging amongst the flames with poysoned spotted face: Casting most venom forth when they enraged be, As when Alcides saw his bloud distil apace.

And so Virgil▪ saith of Aventinus.

—Clypeoque imsigne parentum Centum angues, cinctamque gerit Serpentibus Hydram,

That is to say,

His shield an hundred Snakes, his Fathers crest, An Hydra in their compass is entest.

Oscus which raigned among the Tyrrhenians, gave in his Standard and Coat of Arms a Serpent. * 1.73 Now the people Osci (from whom it may be he was sprung and derived) lived in Campania in Italy, as we have shewed already.

In ancient time we read, that when hostility began to be compounded, they had Heralds and Em∣bassadours * 1.74 of Peace, which they called Caduceatores, which carryed upright a certain Rod or Staffe called Caduceus; this Rod was very straight, and at the either side were artificially joyned two Ser∣pents figures, winding and crooking into each other as the manner of Serpents is. This Rod was so sacred, that it was a great offence to violate or offer any injury unto it: for by the straight Rod, was signified Perfect and Upright Reason or Understanding; by the two crooked Serpents at either side thereof, was figured the two Armies invading and assailing the Upright understanding, yet not pre∣vailing: For this passed through and betwixt them without harm, by truce and entreaties of Peace. This Rod was therefore consecrated to Mercury, the tails of the Serpents reaching down to the handle or half of the Rod, where they were adorned with with wings. Alciatus made these Emblematical verses upon the Caduceus.

Anguibus implicitis, geminus Caduceus alis, Inter Amalt heae cornua rectus adest. Pollentes sic mente viros, fandique peritos Judicat, ut rarum copia multa beet▪

In English thus;

Twixt Ceres horns the Rod of Peace doth stand Ʋpright with winding Snakes, and double-winged tails, To shew that mindes and tongues with Learnings brand, Are blest with plenty in all wordly vails.

But having thus entred into the Hieroglyphical Emblems, if I should say so much as I finde made ready, and squared for the architecture of this discourse, I might lose my self in a voluminous world of matter, therefore I will but give the Reader a taste hereof. By the Serpent in holy Writ, are many observative significations; and first, that the Devil himself, which is Malus Deus ma∣li Mundi, an evil God of an evil World, should be tearmed and expressed by a Serpent. The cause saith Pierius, is linguae motatio, the continual and never ceasing motion of a Serpents tongue: and so the continual and ever-working perswasions of Diabolical tentations, and a true mixture and limb of this old Serpent, speaketh otherwise with his tongue, then he thinketh with his heart. Therefore it is also said, that a natural Serpent hath a cloven or twisted tongue.

Clemens saith truly, that Serpents do also signifie Men given over to sins, and fraudulent impostures or malices, ••nos hybristes ho akotactos, lukos agrios ho pleonecticos, kai ophis h•• apatroon, that is, There is an insolent and an intemperate Ass, there is a raging Wolf which is covetous, and there is a Serpent which is an Impostor and fraudulent. The same learned man saith, that Riches are like to a Serpent: For as when an ignorant Man thinketh to take a Serpent without harm by the tail, she turneth back again and biteth him; but if he take her by the neck, she cannot execute any part of her malice: even so when a wise Man hath the managing of riches, by vertue of his discretion he so charmeth them, that there is not in them any harm at all: but the foolish Man is mortally stung by his imprudent possession and dispensation of them.

Of the ADDER.

[illustration]

IT falleth out in the particular Discourse of Serpents, that I express the most known Serpent to us in England, in the first place, according to alphabetical order, that is, the Adder. For al∣though I am not ignorant, that there be which write it Nadere, of Natrix, which signifieth a water Snake, yet I cannot consent unto them so readily, as to depart from the more vulgar received word

of a whole Nation, because of some likelyhood in the derivation from the Latine: For whereas Na∣dere may seem not improperly to be derived of Natrix, and Natrix of Natando, that is, swimming in the water, the first conjectural derivation is destroyed by the latter, because this Serpent whereof we now intreat, haunteth not the waters, except for drink in her time of thirst, and therefore I mis∣like the writing of Nadere for Adder: and rather take that word to signifie a Land Snake. And yet if there be any good argument of derivation of English from Latine, I would not have the Reader think, but that the Adder may as well be derived a terra, from the earth which it use••h, or of ater, black, which is the colour that it beareth, or from atrox, fierce, (for there is no Serpent of that quantity, more fierce, angry, or hurtful,) as well as Nadere from Natrix.

The Latines do express this kinde of Serpent by the word Coluber, whereof some give sundry rea∣sons, either because colit umbras, it hanteth and liveth in hedges and shadowy places, or else à lubricis * 1.75 tractibus, of his winding pace or path. Gelenius deriveth it of the Greek word Kolob••uros, which signi∣fieth wanting a tail, because the Snakes which are about houses, are sometimes found without tails, which have been strook off by men: but this opinion hath no reason for the Adder, which is not domestical. Indeed I confess that Pliny useth Coluber for a general word for Serpents, when he saith Coluber in aqua vivens, which deceived Theophrastus and Gaza, applying it to the water Ser∣pent. And so Erasmus and others, translate Ophis coluber, that is, the general Greek word for a Ser∣pent, an Adder. There is also Colubra, as in Lucilius, Ʋarro, & Nonius Marcellinus appeareth; where∣unto agree Horace, Virgil, and Cornelius Celsus. The Italians call this Serpent Lo Scorzone, Scorsoni, Colubra, la Scorzonara, la Scorsonae. The French, Colenure; the Spaniards, Culebra, and at this day the Grecians, Nerophis. And thus much for the name; except I may adde these verses of Virgil in his Georgicks.

Aut tecto assuetus Coluber succedere & umbrae Pestis acerba boum, pecorique aspergere virus Fovit humum. Cape saxa manu, cape robora pastor. Tellentemque minas, & sibila colla tumentem Dejice, jamque fuga tumidum caput abdidit altè Cum medii nexus, extremaeque agmina caudae Solvuntur, turdosque trabit sinus ultimus orbes.

In English thus;

Or when the Adder using house or shade Bred in the earth, the bane of Sheep and Neat, Then shepheard take both stone in hand and blade, To quash his swelling neck and hissing threat. Or when his fearfulhead he puts full deep in earth To fly thy wrath, him sunder in the midst, Or cut his tail, if no part else appeareth, For that will stay his pace, while on't thou treadest.

This is usual to call a Water-adder, a House-adder, a Land-snake, and such other, but catachresti∣cally confounding one kinde with another. And thus much for the name of this Serpent. The parts differ not from the general description before recited, it is long like an Eele, and hath many Epi∣thets, as virides colubri, green Adders, long, rough, venomous, divers coloured, swelling, sliding, winding, blew, terrible, secret, hurtful, Medusaean, Cyniphian, Gorgonean Lybissine, biting, spotted, wreathing, black, bending, heavy, scaly, and divers such other, as the Grammarians have observed. But concerning the colour hereof; it is most commonly black on the back, sometimes greenish and yellowish. The scales of it are more sharp then of the Snake, and therefore the Egyptians were wont to say of the Thebane Adders, that they had a certain appearance of horns upon them, as we shall shew more at large in the story of Cerastes, or the horned Serpent.

Victorius speaking of the great worms which are bred in Mens belles, doth call them Caecat Colulras, blinde Adders; but otherwise, the Adder which is proper to the earth, is not blinde, but seeth as sharply as any other Serpent either by day or by night. They are hotter then the Snakes, and there∣fore live more in the shadows, and lye for the most part round, folded up together like a rope, as the Poet noteth saying;

Hirtus & ut coluber, nodoso graemine tectus Ventre cubat flexo, semper collectus in orbem.

In English thus;

As the rough Adder in knotty grass is covered, Lyeth on her belly, and round in circle gathered.

They are a crafty and subtil venomous Beast, biting suddenly them that pass by them, whereup∣on Jacob said that his son Dan should be Coluber in via, an Adder biting the Horse-heels. When she hath bitten, with her forked or twisted tongue she infuseth her poyson, whereof and the remedy serving thereunto, there is this History in Ambrosius P〈…〉〈…〉s. At what time (saith he) Gharles the ninth lay at Melines, I and Doctor Le Feure the Kings Physitian, were sent for to cure a certain Cook of the Lady Custropersees, who was bitten by an Adder, as he was gathering wilde Hops in a hedge. The Cook assoon as he was bitten in the hand, sucked the wound with his mouth, thinking thereby to mitigate the pain, and draw out again the poyson; but assoon as his tongue touched the wound, presently it so swelled that he could not speak: and besides his arm or shoulder swelled into a high bunch or tumour, which did put him unto painful tor∣ments, insomuch that he swounded twice in our presence; his face and colour changed as though he would presently die: Whereat we all despaired to cure him, yet did not forsake him, nor left to try

some means to ease his torments. Then we washed his tongue with Triacle, mixed with an equal proportion of white Wine and Aqua vitae; then also I caused the arm to be scarified all over, and launced the place where the Adder had bitten him, out of which flowed abundance of corrupt mat∣tery bloud. Then we washed the wound with Triacle and Mithridate, in Aqua vitae; so we caused him to be laid into warm bed; there to sweat, and commanded to keep him awake, which was done accordingly; and so the next day the swelling was abated, and the malignant symptomes were all evacuated: so we gave order to keep the wound or launced place open, and afterward the Cook began to be well again. This one example in stead of many, I thought good to insert into this place, that hereby the general cure may be learned and followed.

It agreeth with all other Serpents in the changing or putting off the skin; for after that by fast∣ing it hath made his flesh low and abated, then by sliding through a narrow passage, whereof Virgil thus writeth.

Qualis ubi in lucem coluber, mala gramina pastus, Lubrica convolvit sublato pectore terga Frigida sub terra, tumidum qu••m bruma tegebat: Arduus ad soleth & linguis micat orat trisulcis, Nunc positis novus exuviis, nitidusque juventa.

Which may be Englished thus;

Even as the Adder in the Spring ill fed and lean Moveth her winding limbs, holding up her breast, Whom Winters cold whiles hid earth made swell, In Sun shine with her treble tongue exprest Doth lick and make to shine her skin, neat youth Renueth, and casts old coat, for heat ensueth.

S. Jerom saith, that when the Adder is thirsty and goeth to drink, she first of all at the water side casteth up her venom, lest that by drinking it descend into her bowels, and so destroy herself, but after that she hath drunk, she licketh it up again; even as a Souldier re-armed after he was disarmed. * 1.76 The voyce of this Serpent is hissing, although it be very seldom heard. And it is said, that when Croesus undertook to wage war with Cyrus, the Suburbs of Sardis were all filled with Adders, which were devoured afterward by Horses in the pastures. Whereat the King and people were not a little moved: But the Priests, after consultation with the Oracle, told them that it signified, how strangers should devour the people of that City; because that Adders were bred in those coasts, therefore they took them to signifie natural Inhabitants, and because Horses came from other Countries, there∣fore strangers, (as Cyrus and his Souldiers) should be thereby signified. And this is to be noted, that the enemies of this Serpent, are the same that are common to other, and the Hart above all other beasts of the earth. Yet this Serpent (saith S. Ambrose) will kill a Lion and run away from a Hart.

¶ The Medicines arising out of this Beast, are briefly these; The water wherein an Adder is * 1.77 preserved alive, is a remedy against the poyson of a Toad: Also Adders or Vipers included in a pot with the scrapings of Vines, and therein burnt to ashes, do help the Wens or Kings-evill. And Pliny also affirmeth, that if a Man which hunteth Grocodils, bear about him any part of the fat of an Adder, or the gall mixed with the herb Potamigiton, he cannot be hurt by that Beast.

Serpents and Adders, especially deaf Adders, signifie unrepentant wicked men, and also discord, as * 1.78 the Poet describeth it, when Alecto sent a Serpent, Snake or Adder, to move contention in the family of Anata. Libro 7. Aeneid. And thus much for the Adder.

Of the AMMODYTE.

THis Serpent I call after the Greek name, Ammodytes, an Ammodyte. It is also found to be called Ammodyta, and Conchrias, or rather Centrias, or Centrites, because of the hardness of their tails, which are also cloven on the upper side. The Italians call it Aspido del corno, because it hath up∣on the upper chap a hard Wart like a horn. The head of this Serpent is longer and greater then a Vipers head, and her chaps wider; besides the late expressed difference upon the upper lip: and yet it may well be tearmed a kinde of Viper. It is Immanis fera, a fierce wilde Beast, in length not above a cubit, having divers black spots upon the skin, and certain appearances of strakes or small lines upon the back. The colour of the other parts is ever like the sand wherein it keepeth and * 1.79 maketh abode, according to these verses of Lucan.

Concolor exustis, atque indiscretus are••i•• Ammodytes.—

In English thus;

The Ammodyte, indiscreet on the Land, Doth hold the colour of the burning sand.

The Countries most of all annoyed with these Serpents, are Lybia, Italy, and Illyria, especially about Gortinium, and the Mountains of Lampidia. Their harms are not inferiour to the stinging and poyson of Asps, for Matthiolus writeth, that he hath known some to die thereof within three hours after the wound received. And if they do not die within short time, then doth the bloud issue forth in abundant manner out of the hurt, and the wound swelleth. Afterward, all is turned into

matter, and then followeth dulness in the head, and distraction in the minde; they live long which endure it three days, and it was never known that any lived above seven days: this also being ob∣served, that those that be hurt by a female do die soonest. For together with their biting, they infuse a vehement pain, which causeth swelling, and the sore to run.

I finde the cure hereof in Aetius to be thus, first of all Triacle must be given to the sick person to drink, and also laid upon the wound, also drawing or attractive Plaisters, and such Poultesses which are fit for running Ulcers. But first before the Plaisters, scarifie all the places about the hurt, and binde the upper parts hard, then launce the sore a little with a Pen-knife, and let him drink sweet water with Rungwort, Gourds, Castoreum, and Cassia. Avicen prescribeth in the cure of these Ser∣pents venom Castoreum, Cinamon, the root of Centory, of each two ounces with Wine, and the root of long Hartwort, of Assoasier, the juyce of the root Gentian. And for emplaister, Hony sod and dryed, and so pounded, the roots of Pomgranates, and Centory, the seed of Flax, and Lettuce, and wilde Rue: And so I conclude with Doctor Gesner, Percussus ab Ammodyte festinet ad remedium, sine quo nemo affugere, He which is hurt by an Ammodyte, let him make hast for a remedy, without which never Man escaped death.

Of the ARGES and ARGOLAE.

THere is mention made in Galen and Hippocrates, of a Serpent called Arges: Now Arges signifi∣eth in Greek white, swift, idle, ill mannered: of this Serpent Hippocrates telleth this story. There was (saith he) a young man drunk, which lay asleep upon his back in a certain house, gaping: Into * 1.80 this Mans mouth entered a Serpent called Argoes, the young Man perceiving it in his mouth, strived to speak and cry, but could not, and so suddenly gnashing his teeth, devoured and swallowed down the Serpent: After which he was put to intolerable pains, his hands stretching and quivering like as a Mans that is hanged or strangled, and in this sort he cast himself up and down and dyed. It seemeth therefore that this Serpent hath his name from the sudden destruction he bringeth to the creatures it smiteth, and therefore in ancient time we read that Mercury was called Argiphon, for killing of Serpents.

The Argolae are only mentioned by Suidas, for he saith, that Alexander brought them to Alex∣dria from Argos, and cast them into the River to expel and devour the Aspes: where they continued a long time, till the bones of the Prophet Jeremy were brought out of Egypt unto Alexandria, which slew them, (as the same Author writeth:) And thus much of these two kindes of Serpents.

Of ASPES.

[illustration]

IN Hebrew as appeareth, Deut. 32. the Asp is called Pethen, in Psal. 58. Akschub, in Isa. 59. & Jer. 8. Zipheoni, an Asp or a Cockatrice, worse then a Serpent. The Arabians, Has••or, and Ha∣scos; the Greeks, Aspis; the Italians, Aspe, and Aspide: the Spaniards, Bivora; the French, Ʋn aspic; the Germans, Ein sclang gennant; and the Latines, Aspis. About the notation or derivation of this word, there is some difference among Writers. Aristophanes deriveth it from Alpha, an intensive Particle, and Spizo, which signifieth to extend; either by reason of his sharp shrill hissing, or for the length of his body. Others derive Aspis from Hios, which signifieth venom or poyson, and therefore saith the Scripture; The poyson of Asps, because that is a predominant poyson. The Latines call it Aspis, quòd venenum aspergit morsu, because it sprinkleth abroad his poyson when it biteth. Be∣sides we read of Aspis a Buckler, an Island in the Lycian Sea, a Mountain in Africk, and there is a fa∣shion of camping Souldiers in the field called Aspides.

The Epithets declaring the nature of this pestiferous Serpent, are I••cheeir••, rejoycing in poyson, Elikoessa, winding, Lichmeres, putting out the tongue, Smerdalee, fearfull, Phoinessa cruelly killing. Likewise in Latine, dry, sleeping, drousie, deadly, swelling, and Aspis Pharia, a Pharian Asp, so called of the Island Pharus, where they abound. It is said that the Kings of Egypt did wear the Pictures of * 1.81 Asps in their Crowns; whereby they signified the invincible power of principality in this Crea∣ture, whose wounds cannot easily be cured: And the Priests of Egypt and Aethiopia did likewise wear very long Caps, having toward their top a thing like a Navel, about which are the forms of winding Asps, to signifie to the people, that those which resist GOD and Kings, shall perish * 1.82 by unresistible violence. Likewise by an Asp stopping his ear, was figured and understood a Rebel, obeying no lawes or degrees of the Higher power: But let us leave this discourse of moralities, and come neerer to the naturall description of Asps. There are many kindes of Asps after the * 1.83 Egyptian division, for one kinde is called Aspis sicca, a dry Asp. This is the longest of all other kindes, and it hath eyes flaming like fire, or burning coals; another kinde is called Asilus, which doth not only kill by biting, but also with spitting, which it sendeth forth while it setteth his teeth hard together, and lifteth up the head. Another kinde is called Irundo, because of the similitude it keepeth with Swallowes, for on the back it is black, and on the belly white, like as is a Swallow. We read also in Albertus of Aspis Hipnalis, and Hippupex, but it may be that both these names signi∣fie but one kinde. This Hypnale killeth by sleeping, for after that the wound is given, the Patient falleth into a deep and sweet sleep, wherein it dyeth: and therefore Leonicenus saith; Illam fuisse, ex cujus veneno sibi Cleopatram s••avem mortem conseivit, that it was the same which Cleopatra bought to bring upon her self a sweet and easie death. There is also an Asp called Athaes, which is of divers colours: But I do consider that all the kindes may well be reduced to three, that is, Ptyas, * 1.84 Chersaea, and Chelidonia; Ptyas hurteth by poysoning mens eyes, by spitting forth venom, Chersaea liveth on the land, and Chelidonia in the waters.

The Asp is a small Serpent, like to a land Snake, but yet of a broader back, and except in this differeth not much from the Snake, their necks swell above measure, and if they hurt in that passion, there can be no remedy, for the stroak of their eyes are exceeding red and flaming, and there are two pieces of flesh like a hard skin which grow out of their foreheads, according to these Verses of Nicander;

Praeterea geminae ••alli instar fronte carunclae Haerent, sanguine is scintillant lumina flamis.

That is to say;

At hard as Brawn two bunches in their face Do grow, and flaming bloudy eyes their grace.

And the dry Asp, so called because it liveth in mid-lands, farre from any water, hath a vehement strong sight, and these eyes both in one and other are placed in the Temples of their head. Their teeth are exceeding long, and grow out of their mouth like a Boars, and through two of the longest are little hollowes, out of which he expresseth his poyson: They are also covered with thin and tender skins, which slide up when the Serpent biteth, and so suffer the poyson to come out of the holes, afterward they return to their place again. Of all which thus writeth Nicander;

Quatuor huic intra Marillae ••••n••ava dentes, Radices fixere suas, quas juncta quibusdam Pelliculis tunica obducit, triste unde venenum Effundit, si forte suo se approximet hosti.

In English thus;

Within the hollow of their cheeks fiery teeth are seen Fast rooted, which a coat of skin doth joyn and over-hide, From whence sad venom issueth forth when she is keen, If that her ••o she chance to touch as she doth glide.

The scales of the Asp are hard and dry, and red, above all other venomous Beasts, and by reason of her exceeding drought, she is also accounted deaf. About their quantity here is some difference among Writers: For Aelianus saith, that they have been found of two cubits length, and their other parts answerable: Again, the Egyptians affirm them to be four cubits long: but both these may stand together, for if Aelianus say true, then the Egyptians are not deceived, because the * 1.85 greater number containeth the lesser. The Asp Ptyas is about two cubits long: the Chersaean Asps of the earth, grow to the length of five cubits; but the Chelidonian not above one, and this is no∣ted, that the shorter Asp killeth soonest, and the long more slowly: one being a pace, and another a fathom in length. Nicander writeth thus;

Tam proceram extensa quaerunt quom brachia duci, Tantaque crassities est, quantum missile telum, Quod faciens hastas doct〈…〉〈…〉 faber expolit art••.

Which may be thus Englished;

As wide as arms in force out-stretched, So is the Asp in length, And broad even as a casting Dart, Made by a wise Smiths strength.

The colour of Asps is also various and divers, for the Irundo Asp, that is, the Chelidonian, resem∣bleth the Swallow; the Ptyas or spitting Asp resembleth an Ash colour, flaming like Gold, and * 1.86 somewhat greenish: the Chersaean Asp of an Ash-colour or green, but this later is more rare, and Pierius saith, that he saw a yellow Asp neer Bellun: Of these colours writeth Nicander:

Squalidus interdum color albet, saepe virenti, Cum maculis saepe est cineres imitante figura, Nonnunquam ardenti veluti succenditur igne, Idque nigra Aethiopum sub terra, quale refusus Nilus saepe lutum, vicinum in Nerea volvit.

Thus overtherwise;

Their colour whitish pale, and sometime lively green, And spots which do the Ash resemble, Some fiery red: in Aethiop black Asps are seen, And some again like to Nerean mud, Cast up by flowing of the Nilus floud,

The Countreys which breed Asps, are not only the Regions of Africk, and the Confines of * 1.87 Nilus, but also in the Northern parts of the World (as writeth Olaus Magnus) are many Asps found: like as there are many other Serpents found, although their venom or poyson be much * 1.88 more weak then in Asrica; yet he saith, that their poyson will kill a man within three or four hours without remedy. In Spain also there are Asps, but none in France, although the common people do style a certain creeping thing by that name. Lucan thinketh that the Originall of all came from Africa, and therefore concludeth, that Merchants for gain have transported them into Europe, saying;

Ipsa coloris egens, gelidum non transit in orbem Sponte sua, Niloque tenus metitur arenas. Sed quis erit nobis lucri pudor? Inde petuntur, Huc Lybicae mortes & fecimus Aspida merces.

In English thus;

The Asp into cold Regions not willingly doth go, But neer the banks of Nilus warm, doth play upon the sands. Oh what a shame, of wicked gain must we then undergo, Which Lybian deaths and Aspish wares have brought into our lands?

Their abode is for the most part in dryest soyls, except the Chelidonian or Water Asp, which live in the banks of Nilus all the year long, as in a house and safe Castle, but when they perceive * 1.89 that the water will overflow, they forsake the banks sides, and for safeguard of their lives, be∣take them to the Mountains. Sometimes also they will ascend and climbe trees: as appeareth by an Epigram of Anthologius. It is a horrible, fearfull, and terrible Serpent, going slowly, having a weak sight, alwayes sleepy and drowsie, but a shrill and quick sense of hearing, whereby she is warned and advertised of all noyse, which when she heareth, presently she gathereth her self * 1.90 round into a circle and in the middest lifteth up her terrible head: Wherein a man may note the gracious providence of Almighty GOD, which hath given as many remedies against evil, as there are evils in the World. For the dulnesse of this Serpents sight, and slownesse of her pace, doth keep her from many mischiefs. These properties are thus expressed by Nicander;

Formidabile cui corpus, tardumque volumen, Quandoquidem transversa via est prolixaque ventris Spira, veternosique nivere videntur ocelli. At simul ac facili forte abservaverit aure▪ Vel minimrm strepitum, segnes è corpore somnos Excutit, & teretem sinuat mox asperatractum, Horrendumque caput, porrectaque pectorat••llit.

In English thus;

This feared Asp hath slow and winding pace, When as her way on belly she doth traverse, Her eyes shrunk in her head winking, appear in face, Till that some noise her watchfull eat doth 〈…〉〈…〉ish, Then sleep shak'd off, round is her body gathered, With dreadfull head, o•• mounted neck up lifted.

The voice of the Asp is hissing, like all other Serpents, and seldome is it heard to utter any voyce or sound at all, except when she is endangered, or ready to set upon her enemy. Where-upon saith Nicander;

—Grave sibilat ipsa Bestia, dum ceriam vomit ira concita mortem.

In English thus;

This beast doth hisse, with great and lowdest breath, When in her mood she threatneth certain death.

That place of David, Psalm. 58. which is vulgarly read a death Adder, is more truly translated A deaf Asp, which when she is enchanted, to avoid the voyee of the Charmer, she stoppeth one of her ears with her tail, and the other she holdeth hard to the earth: And of this incantation thus writeth Vincentius Belluacensis. Vertute qu〈…〉〈…〉dam verborum incantatur Aspis, ne veneno interimat, vel ••t quidam dicunt ut quieta capi possit, & gemma de fronte ejus auferri, quae natur 〈…〉〈…〉ter in eo nascitur, that is to say, The Asp is enchanted by vertue of certain words, so as she cannot kill with her poyson, or as some say, be taken quietly without resistance, and so the Gem or pretious Stone be taken out of her fore-head, which naturally groweth therein. And from the words of the Psalm aforesaid, not only the certain and effectual use of charming is gathered by Pierius, but also by many justified in the case of Serpents. Whereof I have already given mine opinion in the former general Treatise, unto the which I will only adde thus much in conclusion, which I have found in a certain unnamed Author; Daemones discurrunt cum verbis ad Serpentes, & infectione interiori hoc faciunt, ut Serpentes ad nutum eorum movean∣〈…〉〈…〉, ae sine l••sione tractabiles exhibeantur: Which is thus much in effect; Devils run up and down with words of enchantment to Serpents, and by an inward or secret infection, they bring to pass that the Serpents dispose themselves after their pleasure, and so are handled without all harm. And in∣deed, that it may appear to be manifest, that this incantation of Serpents is from the Devil, and not from God, this only may suffice any reasonable man: because the Psalmist plainly expresseth, that the Serpent shifteth if off, and avoideth Peritissimas mussitantium 〈…〉〈…〉antationes, the most skilful Charm∣ers. Now if it came from the unresistable power of Almighty God, it should pass the resistance of them or Devils; but being a fallacy of the Devil, the Serpent (wiser in this point then Men that be∣lieve it) easily turneth tail against it: and in this thing we may learn to be wise as Serpents, against the inchanting temptation of the Devil or Men, which would beguile us with shadows of words and promises of no valuable pleasures.

If we may believe Pliny, Aelianus, and Philarchus, the Egyptians lived familiarly with Asps, and with continued kindeness wan them to be tame. For indeed among other parts of their savage beastliness, they worshipped Asps even as houshold Gods, by means whereof the subtil Serpent grew to a sensible conceit of his own honour and freedom, and therefore would walk up and down and play with their children, doing no harm, except they were wronged, and would come and lick meat from the table, when they were called by a certain significant noise, made by knacking of the fingers. For the guests after their dinner, would mix together Hony, Wine, and Meal, and then give the sign, at the hearing whereof they would all of them come forth of their holes; and creeping up, or lifting their heads to the table, leaving their lower parts on the ground, there licked they the said prepared meat, in great temperance by little and little without any ravening, and then afterward departed when they were filled. And so great is the reverence they bear to Asps, that if any in the house have need to rise in the night time out of their beds, they first of all give out the sign or token, lest they should harm the Asp, and so provoke it against them: at the hearing whereof, all the Asps get them to their holes and lodgings, till the person stirring be laid again in his bed.

The holy kinde of Asps they call Thermusis, and this is used and sed in all their Temples of Isis with the fat of Oxen or Kine. Once in the year they crown with them the Image of Isis, and they say that this kinde is not an enemy to Men, except to such as are very evill, whereupon it is death to kill one of them willingly.

It is reported of a certain Gardiner making a ditch or trench in his Vineyard, by chance and igno∣rantly, he set his spade upon one of these Thermusis Asps, and so cut it asunder, and when he turned up the earth, he found the hinder part dead, and the fore-part bleeding and stirring: at which sight his superstitious heart overcome with a vain fear, became so passionately distressed, that he fell into a vehement and lamentable frenzy. So that all the day time he was not his own man, and in the night, in his mad fits he leapt out of his bed, crying out with pitiful and eager complaint, that the Asp did bite him, the Asp did wound him, and that he saw the picture of the said Asp (by him formerly slain) following him, and tearing his flesh, and therefore most instantly craved help against it, saying still he perished by it, he was mortally wounded. And when he had now (saith Aelianus) continued a while in this superstitious fury and disease of the minde, his kindred and acquaintance brought him into the house of Serapis, making request unto that fained God to re∣move out of his sight that spectre and apparition; and so he was released, cured and restored to his right minde.

This kinde of Asp they also say is immortal and never dyeth, and besides it is a revenger of sacri∣ledge, as may appear by such another History in the same place. There was a certain Indian Peacock sent to the King of Egypt, which for the goodly proportion and feature thereof, the King out of his devotion consecrated to Jupiter, and was kept in the Temple. Now there was (saith he) a certain young M••n which set more by his belly, then by his God, which fell into a great longing for to eat of the said Peacock: and therefore to attain his appetite, he bribed one of the Officers of the Tem∣ple with a good sum of Money to steal the said Peacock, and bring it to him alive or dead. The covet∣ous wretch enraged with the desire of the Money, sought his opportunity to steal away the Pea-cock, and one day came to the place where he thought and knew it was kept, but when he came, he saw nothing but an Asp in the place thereof, and so in great fear leaped back to save his life, and after∣ward disclosed the whole matter. Thus far Aelianus.

The domestical Asps understand right and wrong, and therefore Philanthus telleth a story of such an Asp, which was a female, and had young ones: in her absence one of her young ones killed a

childe in the House: When the old one came again according to her custom to seek her meat, the killed childe was laid forth, and so she understood the harm: Then went she and killed that young one, and never more appeared in that house. It is also reported, that there was an Asp that fell in love with a little Boy that kept Geese in the Province of Egypt, called Herculia, whose love to the * 1.91 said Boy was so fervent, that the Male of the said Asp grew jealous thereof. Whereupon one day as he lay asleep, set upon him to kill him, but the other seeing the danger of her love, awaked and delivered him.

There is much and often mention made of Asps in holy Scripture, beside the forenamed place, Psal. 58. as in Esa. 59. the Jews are compared to Asps, and their labours to Spiders webs. And Esa. 11. The sucking childe shall play upon the hole of the Asp. Whereupon a learned man thus writeth; Qui∣••un{que} ex h••minibus occulto veneno ad nocendum referti sunt, sub regno Christi mutato ingenio fore velpueris in∣noxios; that is, whosoever by secret poyson of nature are apt to do harm to other, in the Kingdom of Christ their nature shall be so changed, that they shall not harm sucklings, not able to discover them. Great is the subtilty and fore-knowledge of Asps, as may appear by that in Psal. 58. against the Charmers voyce. As also it is strange, that all the Asps of Nilus do thirty days before the flood remove themselves and their young ones into the Mountains, and this is done yearly, once at the least, if not more often.

They sort themselves by couples, and do live as it were in marriage, Male and Female, so that their sense, affection, and compassion, is one and the same: for if it happen that one of them be killed, they follow the person eagerly, and will finde him out, even in the midst of many of his fellows: that is, if the killer be a beast, they will know him among beasts of the same kinde: and if he be a man, they will also finde him out among men: and if he be let alone, he will not among thousands harm any but he: breaking through all difficulties (except water,) and is hindred by nothing else, except by swift flying away. We have shewed already, how the Psyllians in Asia cast their chil∣dren * 1.92 newly born to Serpents, because if they be of the right seed and kindred to their Father, no Serpent will hurt them, but if they be Bastards of another race, the Serpents devour them: these Serpents are to be understood to be Asps. Asps also we have shewed were destroyed by the Argol••, * 1.93 which Alexander brought from Argos to Alexandria, and therefore those are to be reckoned their enemies. Shadows do also scare away & terrifie Asps, as Seneca writeth. But there is not more mortal hatred or deadly war betwixt any, then betwixt the Ichneumon and the Asp. When the Ichneumon hath espyed an Asp, she first goeth and calleth her fellows to help her, then they all before they en∣ter fight do wallow their bodies in slime, or wet themselves, and then wallow in the sand, so har••es∣sing, and as it were arming their skins against the teeth of their enemy: and so when they finde themselves strong enough, they set upon her, bristling up their tails first of all, and turning to the Serpent till the Asp bite at them, and then sodainly ere the Asp can recover, with singular celerity they flie to her chaps and tear her in pieces, but the victory of this combate resteth in antici∣pation, for if the Asp first bite the Ichneumon, then is he overcome, but if the Ichneumon first lay hold on the Asp, then is the Asp overcome. This hatred and contention is thus described by Nicander;

Solus eam potis est Ichneumon vincere pestem, Cum grave cautus ei bellum parat, edita{que} ova, Quae fovet in multorum hominum insuperabile lethum, Omnia fiacta terit, mordace{que} dente lacessit.

That is to say;

Ichneumon only is of strength, that pest to overquell, Gainst whom in wary wise his war he doth prepare, Her egges, a deadly death to many men, in sand he doth out smell, To break them all within his teeth, this nimble beast doth dare.

Pliny, Cardan, and Constantine affirm, that the herb Arum, and the root of Winterberry, do so asto∣nish Asps, that their presence layeth them in a deadly sleep: and thus much of their concord with other creatures.

Galen writeth, that the Marsians do eat Asps without all harm, although as Mercurial saith, their whole flesh and body is so venomous, and so repleat with poyson, that it never entereth into me∣dicine, or is applyed to sick or sound upon any Physical qualification: the reason of this is given by himself and Fracastorius, to be either, because Asps under their Climate or Region are not venomous at all, as in other Countries, neither Vipers nor Serpents are venomous: or else because those people have a kinde of sympathy in nature with them, by reason whereof they can receive no poy∣son from them.

The poyson of Asps saith Moses, Deut. 32. is crudele venenum, a cruel poyson, and Job, 20. cap. ex∣pressing the wicked mans delight in evil, saith; That he shall suck the poyson of Asps. For which cause, as we have shewed already, the harm of this is not easily cured. We read that Canopus, the Master of * 1.94 Menelaus ship, to be bittten to death by an Asp at Canopus in Egypt. So also was Demetrius Ph〈…〉〈…〉, a Scholar of Theophrastus, and the Keeper of the famous Library of Ptolemaeus Seter. Cleopatra likewise to avoid the triumph that Augustus would have made of her, suffered her self willingly to be bitten to death by an Asp. Wheeupon Propertius writeth thus:

Brachia spectavi sacris ••dmorsa colubris, Et trahere occultum membra soporis iter.

In English thus;

Thus I have seen those wounded arms, With sacred Snakes bitten deep, And members draw their poysoned harms, Treading the way of deaths sound sleep.

We read also of certain Mountebanks, and cunning Juglers in Italy, called Circulatores, to perish by * 1.95 their own devises through the eating of Serpents, and Asps which they carryed about in Boxes as tame, using them for ostentation to get Money, or to sell away their Antidotes. When Po〈…〉〈…〉peius Ru∣fus was the great Master of the Temple-works at Rome, there was a certain Circulator or Quacksal∣ver, to shew his great cunning in the presence of many other of his own trade, which set to his arm an Asp, presently he sucked out the poyson out of the wound with his mouth: but when he came to look for his preservative water, or antidote, he could not finde it; by means whereof the poyson fell down into his body, his mouth and gums rotted presently, by little and little, and so within two days he was found dead. The like story unto this is related by Amb. Paraeus, of another, which at Florence would fain sell much of his medicine against poyson, and for that purpose suffered an Asp to bite his flesh or finger, but within four hours after he perished, notwithstanding all his antidotical pre∣servatives.

Now therefore it remaineth, that we add in the conclusion of this History, a particular discourse of the bitings and venom of this Serpent, and also of such remedies as are appointed for the same. Therefore we are to consider, that they bite and do not sting, the females bite with four teeth, the * 1.96 males but with two, and when they have opened the flesh by biting, then they infuse their poyson into the wound. Only the Asp Pty••s, killeth by spitting venom through her teeth, and (as Avicen saith) the savour or smell thereof will kill, but at the least the touching infecteth mortally. When an Asp hath bitten, it is a very difficult thing to espy the place bitten or wounded, even with most ex∣cellent eyes, as was apparent upon Cleopatra aforesaid; and the reason hereof is given to be this, because the poyson of Asps is very sharp, and penetrateth suddenly and forcibly under the skin, even to the inmost parts, not staying outwardly, or making any great visible external appearance. Yet Galen writing to Piso, affirmeth otherwise of the wound of Cleopatra; but because drowsiness and sleep followeth that poyson, I rather believe the former opinion: and therefore Lucan calleth the Asp, Somnifera, that is, a sleep-bringing Serpent. And Pictorius also subscribeth hereunto.

Aspidis & morsu laesum dormire satentur In mortem, antid••tum nec valuisse serunt.

Which may be Englished thus;

He that by rage of Asps tooth is bitten or is wounded, They say doth sleep until his death cureless, he is confounded.

The pricks of the Asps teeth, are in appearance not much greater then the prickings of a needle, without all swelling, and very little bloud issueth forth, and that is black in colour; straightway the eyes grow dark and heavy, and a manifold pain ariseth all over the body, yet such as is mixed with some sense of pleasure, which caused Nicander to cry out, Perimitque virum absque dolore, it kills a man without pain. His colour is all changed, and appeareth greenish like grass. His face or forehead is bent continually frowning, and his eyes or eye-lids moving up and down in drowsiness without sense, according to these verses following.

Nec tamen ulla vides impressi vulnera morsus, Nec dignus fatu tumor ictum corpus adurit. Sed qui laesus homo est, citra omnem fata dol••rem Claudit, & ignavo moriens torpore fatiscit.

Which I translate thus;

Wounds of impressed teeth, none canst thou see, Nor tumour worth the naming, smitten body burning, But yet the hurt man painless taketh destiny, And sleeping dyeth, sluggishly him turning.

The true signes then of an Asps biting, is stupour or astonishment, heaviness of the head, and slothfulness, wrinking the fore-head, often gaping and gnawing, and nodding, bending the neck, and Convulsion: but those which are hurt by the Ptyas, have blindeness, pain at the heart, deafness, and swelling of the face. And the signes of such as are hurt by the Chalidonian or Chersaean Asp, and the Terrestrian are all one, or of very little difference, except that I may adde the Cramp, and the often beating of the pulse, and frigidity of the members or parts, or pain in the stomach, but all of them in in general, deep sleep, and sometimes vomiting. But by this, that the bloud of the place by them bitten turneth black; it is apparent and manifest, that the poyson of the Asp mortifieth

or killeth the natural heat, which is overcome by the heat of the poyson outwardly, and the dark∣nesse or blindnesse of the eyes proceedeth of certain vapours which are infected, and ascend up to the disturbance of the brain: and when the humors are troubled in the stomach, then followeth vomiting or else the cramp, and sometimes a looseness when the knuckles are drawn in by the ve∣nomous biting, or the infected humors falling down into the intrails. To conclude, so great is the * 1.97 tabifical effect of this poyson of Asps, that it is worthily accounted the greatest venom, and most dangerous of all other; for Aelianus saith, Serpentum venenum cum pestiferum sit, tum multò aspidu pesti∣lentius, the poyson of all Serpents is pestiferous, but the venom of the Asp most of all. For if it touch a green wound, it killeth speedily, but an old wound receiveth harm thereby more hardly. In * 1.98 Alexandria, when they would put a Man to a sudden death, they would set an Asp to his bosom or breast, and then after the wound or biting, bid the party walk up and down, and so immediately with∣in two or three turns he would fall down dead. Yet it is reported by Pliny, that the poyson of Asps drunk into the body doth no harm at all, and yet if a Man eat of the flesh of any beast slain by an Asp, he dyeth immediately.

But concerning the cure of such as have been, or may be hurt by Asps, I will now entreat, not spending any time to confute those, who have wrote that it is incurable: on the contrary it shall be manifest, that both by Chirurgery and Medicines, compound and simple, this both hath been and may happily be effected. First it is necessary when a Man is stung or bitten by a Serpent, that the * 1.99 wounded part be cut off by the hand of some skilful Chirurgeon, or else the flesh round about the wound, with the wound it self to be circumcised and cut with a sharp Rasor; then let the hottest burning things be applyed, even the ••earing Iron to the very bone. For so the occasion being taken away from the poyson to spread any further, it must needs die without any further damage. Then also the holes in the mean time before the ejection must be drawn, either with Cupping-glasse or with a Reed, or with the naked rump of a Ringdove or Cock; I mean the very hole set upon the bitten place. And because the hole is very narrow and small, it must be opened and made wider, the bloud be drawn forth by scarifications, and then must such medicinal herbs be applyed as are most opposite to poyson, as Rue, and such like. And because the poyson of Asps doth congeal the bloud in the * 1.100 veins, therefore against the same must all hot things made thin be applyed, as Mithridatum and Tri∣acle dissolved in Aqua vitae, and the same also dissolved into the wound; then must the Patient be used to bathings, fricasing or rubbing, and walking, with such like exercises. But when once the wound beginneth to be purple, green, or black, it is a sign both of the extinguishment of the ve∣nom, and also of the suffocating of natural heat, then is nothing more safe then to cut off the mem∣ber, if the party be able to bear it. After Cupping-glasses, and Scarifications, there is nothing * 1.101 that can be more profitably applyed then Cen••ory, Myrrh, and Opium, or Sorrel after the manner of a Plaister. But the body must be kept in daily motion and agitation, the wounds themselves of∣ten searched and pressed, and Sea-water used for fomentation. Butter likewise, and the leaves of * 1.102 Yew, are very good to be applyed to the bitings of Asps. And in the Northern Regions, (as witnesseth Olaus Magnus,) they use nothing but Bran like a Plaister, and their Cattle they anoint with Triacle and Salt all over the bunch or swelling. And thus much for the Chirurgical cure of the biting of Asps. In the next place, we may also relate the medicinal cure, especially of such things as are compound, and received inwardly.

First, after the wound, it is good to make the party vomit, and then afterward make him drink juyce of Yew and Triacle, or in the default thereof, Wine, as much of the juyce as a groat weight, or rather more. But for the tryal of the parties recovery, give him the powder of Centory in Wine to drink, and if he keep the medicine, he will live, but if he vomit or cast it up, he will dye thereof. But for the better avoidance and purging out the digested venom, distributed into every * 1.103 part of his body, give the party Garlick beaten with Zythum, until he vomit, or else Opoponex in Wine allayed with water: also Origan dry and green. After the vomit, the former antidotical me∣dicines may be used. And the Northern people use no other Triacle then Venetian. Whereas there * 1.104 are aboundance of all manner of Serpents in the Spanish Islands, yet never are any found there to use Triacle, neither do they account of it as of a thing any whit vertuous, but instead thereof they use the bearded Thapsia, Gilly-flowers, and red Violets, and the herb Avance, boyled in Wine Vinegar, the sharpest that may be gotten, and a sound mans Urine, wherewithall they bathe the wounded part, although much time after the hurt received. But saith Amb. Paraeus, it is much better for the Patient to drink thereof fasting, and before meat two hours, three ounces at a time. And by the help of this notable experiment, the Inhabitants of those Islands are nothing afraid to offer their bodies to be bitten by the most angry Asps. And thus much for compound medicines in general.

It is said, that the first and chiefest easie remedy for such as are bitten by Asps, is to drink so much of the sharpest Vinegar, as he can sensibly perceive and feel the same upon the right side of his mid∣riffe, * 1.105 because that poyson first of all depriveth the liver of sense. For Pliny saith, that he knew a man carrying a bottle of Vinegar to be bitten by an Asp, whiles by chance he trode thereupon, b•••• as long as he bore the Vinegar and did not set it down, he felt no pain thereby, but as often as to ease himself he set the bottle out of his hand, he felt torment by the poyson, which being related to the Physitians, they knew thereby that Vinegar drunk into the stomach was a soveraign antidote against poyson. Yet some say, that the first knowledge of this vertue in Vinegar, grew from the necessity which a little boy bitten by an Asp had of drinking, and finding no other liquor but a bottle of Vinegar, drank thereof a full draught, and so was eased of his pain. For the reason is,

that it hath both a refrigerative, and also a dissipating vertue, as may appear when it is poured on * 1.106 the earth, because it yeeldeth a froth, and therefore when it cometh into the stomach, it disperseth all the infected humors.

The Northern Shepheards do drink Garlick and stale Ale against the bitings of Asps. And some * 1.107 hold an opinion that Aniseed is an antidote for this sore. Others use Hart-wort, Apium seed, and Wine. Aron being burned, hath the vertue to drive away Serpents, and therefore being drunk with Oyl of bays in black Wine, it is accounted very soveraign against the bitings of Asps. The fruit of Balsam, with a little powder of Gentian in Wine, or the juyce of Mints, keepeth the sto∣mach from the Cramp after a Man is bitten by an Asp. Others give Castoreu〈…〉〈…〉, with Lignum Cassiae, and some the skin of a Storks stomach or maw. There be certain little filthy and corrupt Worms bred in rotten wood or paper, called Cimices, these are very profitable against poyson of Asps, or any other venomous biting beast, and therefore it is said that Hens and other Pullein do earnestly seek after these worms, and that the flesh of such fowl as have eaten thereof, is also profitable for the same purpose.

Athenaeus also writeth, how certain Theeves were condemned to be cast to Serpents to be de∣stroyed, now the morning before they came forth, they had given them to eat Citrons; when they were brought to the place of execution, there were Asps put forth unto them, who bit them, and yet did not harm them. The next day, it being suspected, the Prince commanded to give one of them a Citron, and the other none, so when they were brought forth again the Asps fell on them, and slew them that had not eaten Citron, but the other had no harm at all. The Egyptian C〈…〉〈…〉matis * 1.108 or Periwink drunk in Vinegar, is very good against the poyson of Asps; so likewise is Corral in Wine, or the leaves of Yew. Henbane bruised with the leaves thereof, and also bitter Hops have the same operation. The urine of a Tortoise drunk, is a medicine against all bitings of wilde beasts, and the urine of a Man hurt by an Asp, as Marcus Varro affirmed in the eighty ninth year of his age, according to the observation of Serenus saying;

Si vero horrendum vulnus fera fecerit Asp is, Ʋrinam credunt propriam conducere potu: Varronis fuit ista senis sententia, nec non Plinius ut memorat, sumpti juvat imber aceti.

Which may be Englished thus;

If that an Asp a mortal wound do bite, It's thought his urine well doth cure again, Such was the saying of old Varro hight, And Pliny too, drink Vinegar like drops of rain.

But it is more safe to agree with Pliny in the prescription of Mans urine, to restrain it to them that never had any beards. And more particularly against the Asp called Ptyas, and Matthiolus out of Dioscorides saith, that the quintessence of Aqua vitae, and the usual antidote, both mixed to∣gether and drunk, is most powerful against the venoms of the deaf Asp. And thus much for the antipathy and cure of Asps biting venomous nature, whereunto I will add for a conclusion, that pro∣verbial speech, of one Asp borrowing poyson of another, out of Tertullian against the Heretick M〈…〉〈…〉∣cion, who gathered many of his absurd impieties from the unbelieving Jews. De〈…〉〈…〉 nunc h〈…〉〈…〉cus à Judaeo aspis quod aiunt á Vipera 〈…〉〈…〉tuari venenum, that is, let the heretick now cease to borrow his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of a Jew, as the Asps do borrow their poyson from Vipers. And true it is, that this proverb hath especial use, when one bad man is holp or counselled by another; and therefore when Di••genes saw a company of women talking together, he said merrily unto them, Asp is par' echidnes pharmacon danet∣〈…〉〈…〉tai, that is, the Asp borroweth venom of the Viper. Thus much of the Asp.

Of the Description and differences of BEES.

AMongst all the sorts of venomous Insects, (or cut-wasted creatures) the soveraignty and prehe∣minence * 1.109 is due to the Bees, who only of all others of this kinde, are made for the nourish∣ment of mankinde, all other (cut-wasted) serving only for medicinal use, the delight of the eyes, de∣lectation of the ears, and the ornament, trimming, and setting forth of the body, which they per∣form at the full▪ They are called of the Hebrews, Deborah; the Arabians term them, Albara, N〈…〉〈…〉∣halea, * 1.110 and Z••har; the Illyrians and Sclavonians, Wezilla; the Italians, Ape, Api, Ʋna sticha, Mos••atell•• Ape or Scoppa, Pecchi; the Spaniards, Abeia; Frenchmen, Mousches au miel; the Germans, Ee〈…〉〈…〉 The Flemings, Bie; the Polonians, Pzizota; the Irish men, Camilii. In Wales a Bee is called Gwen••v. Amongst the Grecians they have, purchased sundry names, according to the diversity of Nations, Countries and places, but the most vulgar name is Melissa, and in Hesiodus, Meli••. Othersome call a Bee Plastis, á fingendo, of framing. Some again Anthedon: and of their colour, 〈…〉〈…〉hai. Of their Offices and charge, Egemones, ab imperando, from governing. Sirenes, à suavi cantu, from their sweet voyce. The Latines call them by one general name, Apis and Apesd Varro sometimes terms th〈…〉〈…〉 Ave••; but very improperly, for they might better be named Volucres, not Aves. So much for their names, 〈…〉〈…〉ow to the de〈…〉〈…〉.

A Bee is a cut-wasted living creature, that

[illustration]

* 1.111 can flye, having four wings, and bloudlesse, the only Crafts-master of Hony-making. Their eyes are somewhat of a horny substance; hid deep in their bodies, as is also their sting: they * 1.112 want neither tongue nor teeth, they have four wings, being of a bright and clear colour, grow∣ing to their shoulder-blades, whereof the two hinder-most are the lesser, because they might not hinder their flying: and out of their short feet or stumps there grow forth as it were two fingers, wherein they carry a little stone, for the poising and making weighty their small bodies in stormy, tempestuous, blustering or troublesome weather, for fear lest they might be driven from their house and home, by the contrary rage and violence of the windes. They do not breath (by Plinies good leave) * 1.113 but either pant, move, or stir (as the heart or brain doth) and by transpiration they are com∣forted, refreshed, and made lively. Their sto∣mach is contexed and framed of the thinnest part of all their members, wherein they not only retain, and safely keep their Honey dew which they have gathered, but also digest, purifie, and clense it, which is the true and only reason, why the Honey of Bees is longer kept pure and fine, then any Manna or Meldew, or rather it is not at all subject to corruption.

Bees even by nature are much different: for some are more domestical and tame, and other again * 1.114 are altogether wilde, uplandish, and agrestial. Those former are much delighted with the fami∣liar friendship, custom and company of men, but these can in no wife brook or endure them, but ra∣ther keep their trade of Honey-making in old trees, caves, holes, and in the ruders, and rubbish of old walls and houses. Of tame Bees again, some of them live in pleasant and delightful Gardens, and abounding with all sweet senting and odoriferous plants and herbs; and these are great, soft, sat, and big bellyed. Others again, there be of them that live in Towns and Villages, whose study and labour is to gather Honey from such plants as come next to hand, and which grow far∣ther off, and these are lesser in proportion of body rough and more unpleasant in handling; but in labour, industry, wit and cunning, far surpassing the former. Of both sorts of these, some have stings (as all true Bees have:) others again are without a sting, as counterfeit and bastardly Bees, which (even like the idle, sluggish, lither, and ravenous cloystered Monks, thrice worse then theeves) you shall see to be more gorbellied, have larger throats, and bigger bodies, yet neither excellent or markable, either for any good behaviour and conditions, or gifts of the minde. Men call these unprofitable cattle, and good for nothing, Fuci, that is Drones; either because they would seem to be labourers, when indeed they are not: or because that under the colour and pretence of labour (for you shall sometime have them to carry wax, and to be very bufie in forming and making Ho∣ney-combes,) they may eat up all the Honey. These Drones are of a more blackish colour, some-what shining, and are easily known by the greatnesse of their bodies. Besides some Bees are de∣scended of the Kingly race, and born of the bloud Royal: whereof Aristotle maketh two sorts; a yellow kinde, which is the more noble, and the black, garnished with divers colours. Some make three Kings, differing in colour, as black, red, and divers coloured. Menecrates saith, that those who are of sundry colours are the worser, but in case they have diversity of colour with some black∣nesse, they are esteemed the better. He that is elected Monarch Caesar, and Captain General of the * 1.115 whole swarm, is ever of a tall, personable, and heroical stature, being twice so high as the rest, his wings shorter, his legs straight, brawny, and strong, his gate, pace and manner of wa••••ing is more lofty, stately, and upright, of a venerable countenance; and in his fore-head there is a certain red spot or mark with a Diadem; for he far differeth from the popular and inferiour sort in his come∣linesse, beauty, and honour. The Prince of Philosophers confoundeth the sex of Bees, but the greatest company of learned Writers do distinguish them: whereof they make the feminine sort * 1.116 to be the greater. Others again will have them the lesser, with a sting: but the sounder sort (in my judgement) will neither know nor acknowledge any other males, besides their Dulles and Princes, who are more able and handsome, greater and stronger then any of the rest, who stay ever at home, and very seldom (unlesse with the whole Swarm) they stir out of doors, as those whom nature had pointed out to be the fittest to be stander-bearers, and to carry ancients in the camp of Venus, and ever to be ready at the elbows of their loves to do them right: Experience teaching us, that these do sit on Egges, and after the manner of birds, do carefully cherish and make much of their young, after the thin membrane or skin wherein they are enclosed is broken.

The difference of their age is known by the form, state, and habit of their bodies. For the young Bees have very thin and trembling wings, but they that are a year old, as they that are two or three

years of age are very trim, gay, bright-shining and in very good plight and liking, of the colour of Oyl.

But those that have reached to seaven years, have layed away all their flatness and smoothness, neither can any man afterwards either by their figure and quality of their bodies or skins, judge or discern certainly their age (as we say by experience in Horses:) For the elder sort of them are rough, hard, thin and lean scrags, starvelings, loathsome to touch and to look upon, somewhat long, no∣thing but skin and bone, yet very notorious and goodly to see to, in regard of their gravity, hoari∣ness and anciency. But as they be in form and shape, nothing so excellent, so yet in experience and industry they far out-strip the younger sort, as those whom time hath made more learned, and length of days joyned with use, hath sufficiently instructed and brought up in the Art or trade of Honey-making.

The place likewise altereth one whiles their form, and sometimes again their nature, (as their * 1.117 sex and age do both.) For in the Islands of Molucca, there be Bees very like to winged Pismires, but somewhat lesser then the greater Bees, as Maximilian Transilvonus, in an Epistle of his written to the Bishop of Salspurge, at large relateth it. Andrew Thevet in his book that he wrote of the New-found World, Chap. 51. amongst other matters reporteth that he did see a company of flies or Honey-bees * 1.118 about a tree named Vhebehason, which then was green, with the which these Honey-bees do live and nourish themselves: of the which trees there were a great number in a hole that was in a tree, wherein they made Honey and Wax. There is two kindes of the Honey-bees, one kinde are as great as ours, the which cometh not only but of good smelling flowers, also their Honey is very good, but their Wax not so yellow as ours. There is another kinde half so great as the other: their Ho∣ney is better then the other, and the wilde men name them Hira. They live not with the others food, which to my judgement maketh their Wax to be as black as coals, and they make great plenty, specially near to the River Vasses, and of Plate. The Bees called Chalcoides, which are of the colour of brass, and somewhat long, which are said to live in the Island of Creta, are implacable, great figh∣ters and quarrellers, excelling all others in their stings, and more cruel then any others, so that with their stings they have chased the Inhabitants out of their Cities; the remainder of which Bees do re∣main and make their Honey-combes (as Aelianus saith) in the Mountain Ida. Thus much of the diffe∣rences of Bees; now it remaineth to discourse of the Politick, Ethical, and Oeconomick vertues and properties of them.

Bees are governed and do live under a Monarchy, and not under a tyrannical State, admitting and * 1.119 receiving their King, not by succession or casting of lots, but by respective advice, considerate judge∣ment, and prudent election; and although they willingly submit their necks under a Kingly govern∣ment, yet notwithstanding they still keep their ancient liberties and priviledges, because of a certain Prerogative they maintain in giving their voices and opinions, and their King being deeply bound to them by an oath, they exceedingly honour and love.

The King as he is of a more eminent stature, and goodly corporature (as before we have touch∣ed) then the rest: so likewise (which is singular in a King) he excelleth in mildness and temperate∣ness of behaviour. For he hath a sting, but maketh it not an instrument of revenge, which is the cause that many have thought their King never to have had any. For these are the laws of nature, not written with Letters, but even imprinted and engraven in their conditions and manners: and they are very slow to punish offenders, because they have the greatest and Soveraign power in their hands. And although they seem to be slack in revenging and punishing private injuries, yet for all that they never suffer rebellious persons, refractorious, obstinate, and such as will not be ruled, to escape without punishment, but with their pricking stings they grievously wound and torment, so dispatching them quickly. They are so studious of peace, that neither willingly nor unwillingly they will give any cause of offence or displeasure. Who therefore would not greatly be displeased with, and hate extreamly those Dionysian Tyrants in Sicilia, Clearchus in Heraclea, and Apollodorus the Theef, Pieler and spoiler of the Cassandrines? And who would not detest the ungratiousness of those lewd claw-backs, and Trencher-parasites, and flatterers of Kings, which dare impudently main∣tain, that a Monarchy is nothing else but a certain way and rule for the accomplishing of the will, in using their authority as they list, and a science or skilful trade, to have wherewith to live plea∣santly in all sensual and worldly pleasure: which ought to be far from a good Prince, who whilest be would seem to be a Man, he shew himself to be far worser then these little poor winged creatures. And as their order and course of life is far different from the vulgar sort, so also is their birth; for they of the Kingly race are not born after the manner of a little Worm, as all the Commi∣nalty are, but is forthwith winged, and amongst all his younglings; if he finde any of his sons to be either a fool, unhandsome, that none can take pleasure in, rugged, rough, soon angry, furnish or too teasty, ill shaped, not beautiful or Gentleman-like, him by a common consent, and by a Parliamentary authority they destroy, for fear lest the whole Swarm should be divided and distracted into many mindes, and so at length the Subjects undone by factions, and banding into parts.

The King prescribeth laws and orders to all the rest, and appointeth them their rules and mea∣srues: for some he straightly chargeth and commandeth, (as they tender his favour, and will avoid his displeasure) to fetch and provide water for the whole Camp. He enjoyneth others to make the Honey-combes, to build, to garnish, and trim up the house well and cleanly, to finish per∣fectly the work, to finde and allow, to promote and shew others what to do. Some he sendeth

forth to seek their living, but being worn with years, they are maintained at the common stock at home. The younger and stronger being appointed to labour, and take their turns as they fall: And although (being a King) he be discharged and exempt from any mechanical business, yet for all tliat, in case of necessity he will buckle himself to his task, never at any time taking the field or air abroad, but either for his healths sake, or when he cannot otherwise chuse, by means of some ur∣gent business. If in respect of his years he be lusty and strong, then like a Noble Captain he march∣eth before his whole winged-army, exposing himself first to all perils, neither with his good will will he be carryed of his Souldiers, unless he be wearied and weakened by means of crooked age, or mastered and clean put out of heart, by any violent sickness, so that he can neither stand on his legs, nor flie. When night approacheth, the sign and token being given by his Honey-pipe, or Cornet, (if you will so call it) a general Proclamation is made through the whole Hive, that every one shall betake himself to rest, so the watch being appointed, and all things set in order, they all make themselves ready and go to bed. So long as the King liveth, so long the whole swarm en∣joy the benefit of peace, leading their lives without any disquieting, disturbance, vexation, or fear of future wars. For the Drones do willingly contain themselves in their own cells, the elder living contented with their own homes, and the younger not daring for their ears to break into their fa∣thers Lands, or to make any inrodes or invasion into the houses of their predecessors. The King keepeth his Court by himself, in the highest and largest part of the whole Palace, his lodging being workmanlike and very cunningly made of a fine round or enclosure of Wax, being thus as it were fenced and paled about as with a defensible wall. A little from him dwell all the Kings chil∣dren, being very obedient to their parents beck: Their King being dead, all his subjects in an up∣rore, Drones bring forth their young in the cells of the true Bees, all are in a hurly burly, all be∣ing out of season and order. Aristotle saith, that Bees have many Kings, which I would rather tearm Viceroys or Deputies, sithence it is certain (as Antigonus affirmeth) that as well the swarms do die and come to nought, by having of many Kings, as none at all. And thus to have spoken of good Kings let this suffice. Evill Kings are more rough, rugged, browner, blacker, and of more sundry colours: whose natures and dispositions you will condemn, in respect of their habit and manner of body and minde, the one and other are thus Physiognomically described by the Poet;

Nam{que} duae regum facies, duo corpora gentis. Alter erit maculis auro squallentibus ardens, Et rutilis clarus squamis, insignis & ore. Faedior est alter multo, quàm pulvere abacto Quum venit & sieco terram spuit ore venator: Desidia latamque trahens inglorius aluum—Hunc Dede neci, melior vacua sine regnet in aula.

In English thus;

The two aspects of Kingly Bees, two Nations do disclose, One of them, Golden spotted red, burning with pale hew, And having scales both red and clear, and great about the nose, The other filthy to behold like dust, for it is true, Which hunters spit upon dry land, when all is crusht and prest, In sloth belly broad, doth travail worser then the least, Him kill, let the other raign Alone, in empty Court, do not disdain.

And thus hitherto have we spoken of their Kings and Dukes: now will we bend our discourse to the common sort of Bees.

Bees are neither to be accounted wilde, nor altogether calm and quiet creatures, but of a nature betwixt both: and of all other they are esteemed most serviceable and profitable. Their sting giveth both life and death to them, for being deprived of it, they surely die: but having it, they repell all ho∣stility from their swarms. Of these there are none idle, although they be not all Honey-makers, nei∣ther are the most sluggish of them all, like unto the Drones in their inclination and manners: For they do not corrupt and mar the Honey-combes, neither do they lie in wait by treachery and deceit to filch Honey, but are nourished by flowers, and flying forth with their fellows, do get their living with them; although some of them want the skill to make and lay up the Honey finely and safely, yet notwithstanding every one hath his proper charge and business to use and practise; for these bring water to the King, and to the older Bees that cannot travail.

The elder sort if they be of a strong and robustious constitution, are chosen for the guard of the Kings person, as the fittest persons to be about him, in respect of their approved worth, faithful dealing, and uprightness of conscience, for the ordering and disposing of all matters. Some give Physick to those that are sick, by making and giving to them a medicinal aliment of Honey, that is drawn from Anise, Saffron and Hyacinthes. But if any through age or sickness chance to die, then they whose office it is to carry forth the dead bodies to burying do forthwith flock together, carrying the dead body of their brother on their shoulders, as it were on a Beere, lest the pure Honey-combes might be tainted with any uncleanliness, stink, or nastiness.

Bees have also their Ambassadours and Orators, sent with commission or authority, and put in trust to deal in their Princes affairs, their old beaten Souldiers, their Pipers, Trumpetters Horn-winders, Watchmen, Scout-watches, and Sentiness. Likewise Souldiers ever in a

readinesse to defend, and look to their Hony-wealth and goods, as if it were a City committed to their trust and valian••y, and these do punish, torment, and throw to the ground all flying Theeves and Worms, that dare invade secretly by any cunning passage, or mine into their mansions. And that they might bear the world in hand, that they are no privy or secret Theeves in their flying, they make a noyse and humming, which together with their flight, is heard both to begin and end: Which sound, whether it proceedeth from the mouth, or from the motion of their wings, Aristotle and Helychius do much vary and contend.

Their Pipers and horn-blowers do edere Ziggon, as Hesychius saith (the Englishmen term it Sing) and that they make to be the watch-word and privy token, for their watch and ward, sleep, and daily labour. They love their King so entirely, that they never suffer him to goe abroad alone, but their Army being divided into two parts, and by heaps winding themselves round, they do as it were enclose and fence him on all sides. If in any journey the King hap to wander from his com∣pany, and cannot be found, being driven away by the force of some stormy windes or weather, they all forthwith make a privy search, and with their quick-senting, persue and follow the chase so long, untill he be certainly found; and then because he is tyred with flying, and the tedious∣ness of tempests, the common sort lift him upon their wings, and so triumphantly convey him home as it were in a Chariot. But if he die by the way, then they all mournfully depart, every one to his own place separating themselves, or peradventure for a while, they work up their Honey-combes not yet finished, but never make any more Honey; So that at length, growing to be lazy, sickly, wasted, consumed and distained with their own filth and corruption, they all miserably per∣ish. For they cannot possible live without a King, against whom, none is so hardy as to lift up his finger to offer him any violence, much less to conspire his destruction, unless he (after the fashion of Tyrants) do overthrow and turn all things upside down, after his own will and lust, or neglecting carelesly the Weal publique, setteth all upon six and seaven. Yea, if he accustom himself to go often abroad, (which he cannot do without the great hurt and prejudice of his Citizens) they do not by and by kill him, but they take from him his wings, and if he then amend his life and look better to his office, they singularly affect and honour him.

When the King by flying away hath left his Bees, they fetch him again, and being a fugitive from his Kingdom, they follow him amain by his smell, as it were with hue and cry, (for amongst them all the King smelleth best) and so bring him back to his Kingly house. None dare venture out of his own lodging first, nor seek his living in any place, except the King himself first going forth, do di∣rect them the way of their flight. For I am hardly of Aristotles minde, who affirmeth that the King never cometh abroad, but when the whole swarm doth, which is seldom seen. But if by reason of his tyranny, cruelty, and violent rule, they be forced to seek some other dwelling places, then a few days before the time appointed, there will be heard a solitary, mournful, and peculiar kinde of voice, as it were of some trumpet, and two or three days before they flie about the mouth of the Hive; so when all things are in a readiness for their flight, being all assembled, they flie all speedily away, and kill the Tyrant (whom they left behinde) if he attempt to follow them. But a good King they ne∣ver forsake; and if at any time he pine and fall away by reason of sickness, any plague, or murrain, or through old age, all the meaner sort do make mone, the whole rout and multitude of Senators and Aldermen do greatly bewail him, not conveying any meat into their Hives, nor yet looking out of doors for meer grief, filling the whole house with sorrowful hummings and laments, and gather∣ing themselves by heaps about the carkass of the dead King, they do with great noise tragically mourn for him. Neither doth continuance of time mitigate or take away their grief, but at length all of these faithful friends, partly through grief, and partly through famine, they are clean consumed and brought to death.

Whilest they have a King, the whole swarm and company is kept in awful order, but he being gone, they go under the protection of other Kings. They have not many Kings at once, neither can they endure usurpers, overthrowing their houses, and rooting out their stock and family. And if in one swarm there be two Kings, (as sometimes it falleth out) then one part adhereth to the one King, and the other side cleaveth to the other, so that sometimes in one hive you shall finde Honey-combes of sundry forms and fashions: where they behave themselves so honestly and neighbourly, that the one meddleth not with the others charge and business, having no minde to enlarge their Empire, to entice, draw, or win by fair means the subjects of the other side, but every one being obedient to his own King without contradiction. They honour him so highly, that being lost they complain; being decrepit, they preserve and keep him; being weary, they carry him round about with them; being dead, they bewail him with all funeral pomp and heaviness, yeelding up at length even their very lives for an assurance of their loves and faithful dealings. Oftentimes they arrear deadly war against strangers born, for the Honey that they have stoln from them, as for the catch∣ing and snatching up afore-hand those flowers whereon they purposed to sit on; so that sometimes the quarrel is determined by dint of sword in a just battail. Oftentimes again they wrangle about their Honey-combes and dwelling houses, but then the deadly and unappeaseable war is, when the contention is about the life, crown, and dignity of their King, for then they bestir themselves most eagerly, defending him most valiantly, and receiving the darts or stings that are bended against him, with an undanted courage, by the voluntary and thick interposing of their own bodies, betwixt the darts and the person of their King.

Neither are Bees only examples to men of Political prudence and fidelity, but also presidents for them to imitate in many other vertues. For whereas Nature hath made them Zooa agelaia, that is, creatures living in companies and swarms, yet do they all things for the common good of their own rout and multitude, excepting ever the Drones and Theeves, whom if they take tripping in the man∣ner, they reward with condign punishment. Their houses are common, their children common, their laws and statutes common, and their countrey common. They couple together without question as Camels do, privily and apart by themselves, which whether it proceed of modesty, or be done through the admirable instinct of Nature, I leave it to the dispute and quaint resolution of those grave Doctors, who being laden with the badges and cognizances of learning, do not stick to affirm that they can render a true reason even by their own wits, of all the causes in nature, though never so obscure, hid and difficult.

Flies and Dogs do far otherwise, whose impudency is such, that having no regard of times, persons, or places, they will not give place, or be disjoyned. Yea the Massagets (as Herodatus writeth) ha∣ving their quiver of arrows on their carts, they dealt with their wives very unseasonably, and though all men beheld it, yet they most impudently contemned it. And that which is worser, this beastly fa∣shion is crept amongst the usurpers, or at least professors of the Christian name, who shame not openly to kiss and embrace, yea even to play and meddle with filthy whores and brothelly queans. Bees surely will condemn these kinde of people of beastial impudency and wanton shamelesness; or causing them to blush if they have any grace, will teach them repentance. Neither are they altoge∣ther such creatures as cannot endure or away with musick, (which is the Princess of delights, and the delight of Princes) as many unlearned people cannot, but are exceedingly delighted with tune in any harmony wherein is no jarring, so the same be simple and unaffected.

And although they have not the skill to daunce according to due time, order and proportion in Musick, as they say Elephants can, yet do they make swifter or slower their flight, according to the Trumpetors minde, who with his sharp and shrill sound causeth them to bestir themselves more speedily; but beating slowly and not so loud upon his brasen instrument, maketh them more slow, and to take more leisure. Neither hath Nature made them only the most ingenious of all living crea∣tures, but by discipline hath made them tame and tractable. For they do not only know the hand and voice of the Honey-man, or him that hath the charge and ordering of the same, but they also suffer him to do what liketh him best: which every man must needs confess to be an argument of a gene∣rous and noble disposition, thus to undergo the rule of their Over-seers and Surveyors, but the hand and discipline of a stranger they will by no means endure.

As for oeconomical vertues they excel also, and namely for moderate frugality and temperance, not profusely and prodigally wasting and devouring the great store of Honey which they gathered in the Summer season, but they sustain themselves therewith in Winter, and that very sparingly; And so whilest they feed upon few meats, and those of the purest sort, they purchase long life, (the reward of sobriety.) Neither are they so niggardly and sordidous minded, but when as they have gathered more Honey then their number can well spend, they communicate and impart some very liberally amongst the Drones. As for their cleanliness these may be certain arguments, that they never exonerate nature within their hives, (except constrained thereto by some sickness, foul weather, and for some urgent necessity) that they convey away the dead carkasses, that they touch no rotten nor stinking flesh, or any other thing, no herb that is withered, nor no ill senting or de∣cayed flowers.

They kill not their enemies within their hives, they drink none but running water, and that which is throughly defecated: they will not dwell in houses impure and foul, sluttish, black, or full of any feculent or dreggy refuse, and the excrements of the labourers and sickly, they gather on a heap without their pavilions, and assoon as their leisure serveth it is carryed clean away. Concern∣ing their temperance and chastity, (although it hath been partly touched before,) yet this I will add, that it is wonderful what some men have observed. For whereas all other creatures do couple in the open sight of men, the Elephant only excepted, and Wasps likewise not much differing in kinde, do the same: yet Bees were never yet seen so to joyn together, but either within their hives very mo∣destly they apply themselves to that business, or else abroad do it without any witnesses. And they are no less valiant then modest and temperate, Dum corpora bello objectant, pulchramque petunt per vul∣nera mortem. Their war is either civil or forain. Of the former there be divers causes, that is to say; the multitudes of their Dukes or Captains lying in wait to betray both King and Kingdom; scarsity of victual, straightness of place and room, corruption of manners and idleness. For if they have no Dukes, then it is expedient (as other whiles it happeneth) they stay the overplus, left the number of them growing too great, either violence might be offered to the King, or the Commons drawn to some sedition.

They kill them most of all, when as they have no great store of young Bees to plant any new Co∣lonies, overthrowing and spoiling withall their Honey-combs (if they have any) They execute and Theeves and Drones, so often as they have not room enough to do their business in, (for they bold the more inward part of the Hive,) so taking from them at one time, both their Honey-combs and meat. The scarsity and lack of Honey, causeth them also to be at deadly feud, so that the short Bees do encounter the long with might and main. In the which bickering, if the short be Conquerors, it will be an excellent Swarm, but if fortune smile on the long Bees side, they live idlely, making ne∣ver any good Honey. Whosoever getteth the day, they are so given to rapine and re∣venge,

as they take no prisoners, nor leave any place to mercy, but commit all to the sword.

Now concerning their forain wars, I must say they give place to no other living creature, either in fortitude, or hardy venturing: and if either men, four-footed beasts, birds, or Wasps, do either hinder, disquiet, or kill any of them, so that they be not well contented, against all these they oppose themselves very stoutly, according to their power wounding them. They hate extreamly adulte∣rous persons, and such men as be smeared with any Ointment, those that have curled or crisped hair (as also all unfaithful and base raskally people) and all those that wear any red clothes of the colour of bloud: as contrariwise they love and reverence exceedingly their Masters, Keepers, Tutors, De∣fenders, and Maintainers: so that sitting upon their hands, they do rather tickle and lick them in sporting wise, then either wound or hurt them, though never so little with their sting. Yea these men may safely without any touch of hurt, and without any covering to their hands, ga∣ther together the swarms in a very hot Summer: yea, handle, place them in order, heap up to∣gether, sit or stand before their Hives, and with a stick take clean away Drones, Theeves, Wasps, and Hornets.

If any Souldier loseth his sting in fight, like one that had his Sword or Spear taken from him, he pre∣sently is discouraged and despaireth, not living long, through extremity of grief. Going forth into the field to fight, they stay till the watchword be given, which being done, they flock in great heaps about their King (if he be a good one) ending all their quarrell in one set battel. In their order of fight∣ing, how great vertue, courage, strength, and nobleness these poor creatures shew, as well we our selves can testifie, and they better who have assured us by their writings, that whole Armies of armed men have been tamed by the stings of Bees, and that Lions, Bears, and Horses, have been slain by means of them. And yet (how fierce and warlike soever they seem to be,) they are appeased and made gentle with continual or daily company, and unless they be too much netled and angred, they live peaceably enough without any great trouble, never hurting any one maliciously or deceit∣fully, that standeth before their Hives. If I should go about to declare at large their ingeny, na∣tural inclination, cunning workmanship and memory; I should not only give unto them with Virgil: Particulam aurae divinae, but also haustus mentis aethereae, and (liccat Pythagoricè errare,) the Metempsachoosis of that ingenious Philosopher. For after that they are inclosed in a clean and a sweet hive, they gather out of gummy and moist liquor yeelding trees a kinde of glutinous substance, thick, clammy and tough, (called of the Latines, Camosis, and of the Greeks, Mitys,) especially from Elms, Willows, Canes or Reeds, yea even from stones; and this they lay for the first foundation of their work, so covering it all over as with a hard crust at first, bringing to it afterwards another layer of Pissocera, which is a kinde of juyce of Wax and Pitch, made with Gum and Rosin, and over that again they lay Propolis, which we call Bee-glew.

In this same three-fold tilie, and sure ground-work thus artificially begun, they do not only laugh to scorn, jest at, and mock the eyes of the over-curious spectators of their Common-wealth and works, but that which no man considers, they do hereby defend both themselves and theirs, against rain, cold, small vermin and beasts, and all their enemies. Then after this they build their Combes, with such an Architectonical prudence, that Archimedes in respect of them seems to be no body. For first of all they set up the cells of their Kings and Princes in the higher place of the Honey-combes, being large, fair, sumptuous, stately and lofty, being cunningly wrought, of the most tried, purest and re∣fined Wax, trenching them round for the greater defence of the Regal Majesty, with a mound and en∣closure as it were with a strong Wall, Bulwark, or Rampire.

And as Bees in regard of their age and condition, are of three sorts, so likewise do they divide their Cells: for to the most ancient they appoint houses next to the Court, (as those that are the fittest to be of his privy Councel, and guarders of his Person) next to these are placed the young Bees, and those that be but one year old. And they of middle years and stronger bodies, are lodged in the ut∣termost rooms, as those that are fittest and best able to fight for their King and Countrey. Yet Ari∣stotle saith, that Bees in the making of their Tents or Cells, do first of all provide for themselves, and next for their King and his Nephews, and lastly for the Drones. And as in the fabricature of their Honey-combes, they make the fashion according to the magnitude and figure of the place, fashion∣ing it either orbicular, long, square, sword-like, or foot-like, &c. according to their own liking, running out sometimes in length eight foot: so their little Cells contrariwise, are framed after a cer∣tain form in a Geometrical proportion and measure; for by rule they are justly Sexangular, and ca∣pable enough to hold the tenant.

The whole Combe containeth four orders of Cells; the first the Bees occupy; the next the Drones possess; the third, those that are called of the Greeks, Chadoones; of the Latines, Apum soboles, (call them if you please Schadones.) The last is appointed for the room of Honey-making. There be some who constantly aver, that the Drones do make combes in the same hive the labour∣ing Bees do, but that they lack the skill and power of mellification, it being uncertain whether this comes to pass either through their grosseness and big-bellied fatness, or through their setled and natural laziness. And if through the weightiness of the Honey the combes begin to shake and wag, and to lean and bend as though they were ready to fall, then do they rear them up, and under-prop them with pillars made Arch-wise, that they may the more readily dispatch their business, and execute their charges, (for it is necessary that to every combe there be a ready way.)

In some places, as in Pontus, and in the City of Amisus, Bees make white Honey, without any combes at all, but this is seldom seen. And if a man would consider the rare and admirable contex∣ture and fabrick of their Honey-combes, far excelling all humane Art and conceit, who would not subscribe with the Poet, Esse Apibus partem divinae mentis, & haustus aethereos? who will deny them (I say) either imagination, fantasie, judgement, memory, and some certain glimpse of reason? But I will not dispute of this, neither am I of Pythagoras minde, who conceited that the souls of wise men, and of other ingenious creatures, departed into Bees. But whosoever will diligently examine how they divide their labours, as some to make up the combes, some to gather Honey, to heap together their meat, to trim and dress up the houses, to cleanse the common draught, to under-shore the rui∣nous walls, to cover those places wherein any thing is to be kept, to draw out the very strength of the Honey, to digest it, to carry it to their cells, to bring water to the thirsty labourers, to give food at set and appointed hours to the old Bees that sit to defend their King with such over-sight and painful regard, to drive away Spiders, and all other enemies; to carry forth the dead, (that no stink or ill savour hurt,) every one to know and go to his own proper cell, and generally, all of them not to stray far from home to seek their living; and when the flowers are spent neer their lodgings, to send out their espials to look for more in places further distant, to lie with their faces upward under the leaves when they have set forth any voyage by night, lest their wings being much moi∣stened by the dew, they should come tardy home the next day; to ballance and poyse their light bo∣dies with carrying a stone in stormy weather, and when there is any whirl-winde, to flie on the further side of the hedge, for fear lest either they might be disturbed, or beaten down by the boyste∣rous violence thereof. Whosoever (I say) will duly consider all this, must needs confess, that they observe a wonderful order and form in their Common-wealth and government, and that they are of a very strange nature and spirit.

I had almost omitted to speak of that natural love which they bear to their young, a great vertue, and seldom seen in the parents of this age. For Bees do sit upon their combes (when they have laid their increase) almost like unto birds; neither will they stir from thence but in case of pinching hunger, returning out of hand to their breeding place again, as though they were afraid lest that by any long stay and absence, the work of their little cell might be covered over by some Spiders web (which often happeneth) or the young by taking cold might be endangered. Their young ones be not very nice or tender, nor cockeringly brought up, for being but bare three days old, as soon as ever they begin to have wings, they enjoyn them their task, and have an eye to them that they be not idle, though never so little. They are so excellent in divination, that they even feel aforehand, and have a sense of rain and cold that is to come, for then (even by Natures instinct) they flie not far from home: and when they take their journey to seek for their repast, (which is never done at any set and ordinary time, but only in fair weather) they take pains continually and diligently without any stay, being laden with such plenty of Honey, that oftentimes being over-wea∣ried, they faint in their return to their own private cottages, not being able to attain them. And because some of them in regard of their roughness are unfit to labour, by rubbing their bodies against stones and other hard matter they are smoothed, afterwards addressing themselves most stoutly to their business. The younger sort bestir them right doubtely without dores bringing to the hive all that is needful. The elder look to the family, placing in due order that Honey which is gathered and wrought by the middle aged Bees. In the morning they be all very silent, till one of them awaken all the rest with his thrice humming noise, every one bustling himself about his own propet office and charge. Returning at night, they are as it were in an uproar at the first, and af∣ter that they make a little muttering or murmuring among themselves, until the principal Officer appointed for the setting of the watch, by his flying round about, and his soft and gentle noise, doth as it were covertly and privily charge them in their Kings name to prepare themselves to rest; and so this token being given, they are as silent as fishes, so that laying ones ear to the mouth of the hive, you shall hardly perceive any the least noise at all: so dutiful they are to their King, Officers, and Rulers, reposing themselves wholly in his books, favour, and pleasure. And now I will intreat of their excellency and use.

Whereas the Almighty hath created all things for the use and service of Man, so especially among the rest hath he made Bees, not only that they should be unto us patterns and presidents of politi∣cal * 1.120 and oeconomical vertues, (of the which before I have discoursed) but even Teachers and School-masters instructing us in certain divine knowledge, and like extraordinary Prophets, premonstra∣ting the success and event of things to come. For in the years 90. 98. 113. 208. before the birth of our blessed Saviour, when as great swarms of Bees, lighted in the publique and Ox-market, up∣on the houses of private Citizens, and the Chappel of Mars, many conspiracies and treasons were intended against the State at Rome, with which the Common-wealth was welnigh deceived, in∣snared, yea and overthrown. In the days of Severus the Emperour, Bees made their combes in the Ensignes, banners and standards of the Souldiers, and most of all in the camp of Niger, after which ensued divers conflicts betwixt the Armies of Severus and Niger, Fortune for a time impart∣ting her favours equally to them both, but at length Severus side carryed away the bucklers Swarms of Bees also filled the Statuaes which were set up in all Hetruria, representing Antonius Pius, and after that they fell in the camp of Cassius, and what hurly but lies after that followed, Julius Capitolinus will resolve you. At which time also a great number of Romans were intrapped and slain by an a〈…〉〈…〉∣bush of Germans in Germany, P. Fabius and Q. Elius, being Consuls. It is written that a swarm

lighted in the tent of Hostilius Rutilus, who was in the Army of Drusus, ard did there hang after such a manner, as they did enclose round his Spear which was fastened to his Pavilion, as if it had been a rope hanging down, M. Lepidus and Munatius Plancus being Consuls. Also in the Consul∣ship of L. Paulus and Caius Metellus, a swarm of Bees flying up and down, presignified the enemy at hand, as the Soothsayers well divined. Pompey likewise warring against Caesar, when for the pleasuring of his friends he had set his Army in aray, going out of Dyrrhachium, Bees met with him, and darkened even the very Ancients with their great multitude. We read in the Histories of the Helvetians, how that in the year of our Lord God 1385. when Leopold of Austrich prepared to go against Sempach with an Host of men, being yet in his journey, a swarm of Bees fled to the Town, and there rested upon a certain great Tree called Tilia; whereupon the vulgar sort rightly foretold the coming of some strange people to them. So likewise Virgil in the seventh Book of his Aeneids, seemeth to describe the coming of Aeneas into Italy after this manner.

—Lauri Hujus Apes summum densae (mirabile dictu) Stridore ingenti liquidum trans aethera vectae Obsedere apitem, et pedibus per mutua nexis Examen subitò ramo frondente pependit. Continuò vates: examen cernimus (inquit) Adventare virum.—

That is,

A tale of wonder to be told, there came a swarm of Bees, Which with great noyse within the air a Bay-tree did attain, Where leg in leg they cleaped fast, and top of all degrees O're-spread, and suddenly a hive of them remaind There hanging down: whereat the Prophet said, Some stranger here shall come to make us all afraid.

Which thing also Herodotus, Pausanias, and divers other Historiographers, have with greater ob∣servation then reason confirmed. Laon Acraephniensis, when he could not finde the Oracle of Tro∣phonius, by a swarm flying thither he found the place. In like sort, the Nurses being absent, Ju∣piter Melitaeus, Hiero the Syracusan, Plato, Pindarus, and Ambrosius, were nourished by Honey, which Bees by little and little put in their mouths, as Plutarch, Pausanias, and Textor are Authors. Xeno∣phon likewise in his Oeconomicks, termeth Honey-making the Shop of vertues, and to it sendeth mothers of Housholds to be instructed. Poets gladly compare themselves with Bees, who follow∣ing Nature only as a School-mistresse, useth no Art. So Plato saith, that Poets ruled by Art, can never perform any notable matter. And for the same reason Pindarus maketh his brags, that he was superior to Bacchilides, and Simonides, having only Nature, not Art to his friend. Bees unlesse they be incensed to anger, do no hurt at all, but being provoked and stirred up they sting most sharply: and such is the disposition and naturall inclination of Poets; and therefore in his Mino strictly enjoyneth, that those who love their own quiet, must take great heed that they make no wars either with Poets or Bees. Finally, they have so many vertues which we may imitate, that the Egyptians, Chaldeans, and Grecians, have taken divers Hieroglyphicks from them. And he that will read over Pierius, shall there finde store of Emblems of them.

The Countrey people in like manner have learned of them Aeromantie, that is, Divination of things by the air, for they have a fore-feeling and understanding of rain and windes aforehand, and do rightly prognosticate of storms and foul weather; So that then they flye not far from their own homes, but sustain themselves with their own Honey-suck already provided. Which be∣ing true, we must then think it no strange matter, that Aristeus, Philistius, Aristomachus Solensis, Me∣nus the Samnite, and six hundred others that have writ of the Nature of Bees, bidding adiew to all those pleasures and delicacies that are found in Cities, for fifty and eight yeers space together, in∣habited the Woods and Fields, that they might more exactly come to the knowledge of their or∣der of living, and naturall dispositions, leaving it as a monument for posterity to imitate. But what their bodies do work in ours, I judge worth the labour and pains taking to let you under∣stand, that we may be assured there is nothing in Bees, but maketh to the furtherance of our health and good.

First therefore, their bodies being taken newly from the hives and bruised, and drunk with some * 1.121 diuretical wine, cureth mightily the Dropsie, breaketh the stone, openeth the obstructed passages of the Urine, and helpeth the suppression thereof. Being bruised, they cure the wringings and gri∣pings of the belly, if they be laid upon the place affected: and if any have drunk any poysonous Honey, Bees being likewise drunk do expell the same. They mollifie hard ulcers in the lips, and being bound to the part, they cure a Carbuncle and the Bloody-flixe, amending also the crudity of the stomack, and all spots and flecks in the face, being tempered with their own made Honey; as both Hollerius, Alexander, Benedictus, and Pliny have written.

Galen affirmeth, that if you take live Bees out of their Combes, and mix them with Honey wherein Bees have been found dead, you shall make an excellent Oyntment to be used against the shedding and falling of the hair in any place of the head, causing it to grow again, and come afresh. Pliny again willeth us to burn many Bees, commixing the ashes with Oyl, and therewith to anoynt the b••ld places; but we must (saith he) take great heed that we touch no other place neer adjoyn∣ing. Yea, he affirmeth, that Honey wherein is found dead Bees, is a very wholsome medicine,

serving for all diseases. Erotis, cap. 61. De morb. muliebrib. commendeth highly the ashes of Pee; beaten and tempered with Oyl, for the dealbation of the hair.

Bees also are very profitable, because divers living creatures are nourished by, and do feed full savorly on their Honey, as the Bear, the Badger or Brock, Lizards, Frogs, Serpents, the Wood-pecker or Eat-bee, Swallows, Lapwings, the little Titmouse, which of some is called a Nunne, be∣cause his head is filletted as it were Nun-like, the Robin-red-breast, Spiders, and Wasps, as Bellonius hath well observed.

But to what end (you will say) serveth their sting, against whose poyson Pliny knew no remedy? I must needs confesse truely that which cannot be denyed, that the stings of Bees are sometimes venemous, but that is when either they are mad and raging, and be exceedingly disquieted by means of anger, or some vehement Feaver, for otherwise they do not sting▪ but prick but a little: and therefore Dioscorides never made mention of the stinging of Bees, supposing it very unmeet for a man to complain of so small a matter as the sting of a silly Bee. But yet they that have suc∣ceeded him, have observed pain, rednesse, and swellings, as companions and effects of their ma∣lice, especially if the sting do stick in the flesh, which if it do very deep, then death hath sometimes followed, as Nicander writeth in his Theriacis. In like manner the people of the old World (that we may prove the sting of Bees to be converted to some good use) did (as Suidas writeth) punish those persons who were found guilty of cousenage, and deceitfull counterfeiting of merchandize, after this sort: First, they stripped the offender stark naked, anoynting his body all over with Ho∣ney, then setting him in the open Sun with his hands and feet fast bound, that by this means being tormented with Flies, Bees, and scorching beams of the Sun, he might endure punishment, pain, and death, due to his lewd and wicked life. With which kinde of punishment and torture, the Spaniards do grievously vex the poor naked Islanders of America at this day, (now called the West-Indies) who are under their rule and government, not for justice sake, (as those Ancients did) but for satisfaction and fulfilling of their barbarous wills, and beastly tyranny, that they might seem to be more cruell, then cruelty it self.

Nonius faith, that if the herb Balm (called Apiastrum) be beaten, and anoynted with Oyl upon the stinged place, that there will ensue no hurt thereby. Florentius counselleth the gatherer of Ho∣ney, to anoynt himself with the juice of Marsh-mallowes, for by that means he may safely and without fear take away the Combes. But the juice of any Mallow will do as much, and especially if it be mixed with Oyl; for it both preserveth from stinging, and besides it remedieth the stinged. But admit that Bees by their stinging do vexe and disease us, yet notwithstanding the dead Bees so found in the Honey do speedily bring cure to that hurt, if they be duly applyed, abating and ta∣king away all the pain and poyson. What should I say? No Creature is so profitable, none lesse sumptuous. GOD hath created them, and a little money and cost will maintain them, and small provision will content them. They live almost in all places, yea, even in Forrests, Woods, and Mountains; both rich and poor by their good husbandry do gather good customs and pensions by them, they paying (as all men know) very large rents for their dwelling houses; and yet for all their tribute they pay, a man need neither keep one servant the more for the gathering of it, nor set on pot the oftner. Merula saith, that Varro gathered yeerly five thousand pound weight of Honey: and that in a small Village of Spain, not exceeding one acre of ground, he was wont to gain by Ho∣ney there gathered, ten thousand Sesterties, which is of our English Coyn about fifty pounds. We are furnished also out of their work-houses or Shops, with Waxe, Sandracha, Bee-glew, Combs, and dregs of Wax, which no Common-wealth can well spare. To speak nothing of the examples of their vertues and noble properties, being no lesse wholsome for the soul, then these others are for the good provision and maintenance of our life, and for nourishment of our bodies necessary and commodious.

Now for the conservation of Bees, it is very meet (as Pliny writeth) that we come by them law∣fully, and by honest means, that is, either by gift, or by buying of them; for being taken away by theft, they will not prosper with us: even as the hearb called Rue being stolne, will very hardly or never grow. Furthermore, to keep these good pay-masters, and to make them in love with you, you must remove from their Hives mouthes, unlucky, mischievous, and deceitfull people, and idle persons that have nothing to do, causing them to stand further off: As also all those that are di∣stayned with whoredome, or infected with the disease called Gonorrhoea, or the fluxe of menstrues, bathes, or any thing that smelleth of smoak, mud, dung, or ordure of Cattell, men or beasts, houses of Office, sinks, or kitchens. Mundifie and correct the air oftentimes, infected with the breath and vapour of Toads and Serpents by burning of Balm, Thyme, or Fennel; having great care to keep them neat, clean and quiet. Destroy all Vermine, and seekers to prey upon their Ho∣ney, robbers, pillers and pollers, and if at any time they be sick, give them physick.

Now the signs of their unhealthinesse, as of all other living creatures, are known by three things; that is, from the action offended, the outward affect of the body, and excrements. For their cheerfulnesse being gone, sluggish dulnesse, a giddy and vertiginous pace, often and idle stand∣ing before the mouth of the Hive, lack of strength, wearinesse, lithernesse, languishing, and want of spirit to do any businesse, detestation of Flowers and Honey, long watchings, and continuall sleepings, unaccustomed noyses and hummings, are sure arguments, that Bees are not in good health. As also if they be somewhat rough, not fine and trim, dry and unpleasant in handling, not soft, harsh, and rugged, not delicate and tender, if their Combes be infected with any manner

of filthy, corrupt, and noysome savour, and that their excrements melt, stink, and be full of worms, carrying dead carkases daily out of their houses, that they have no regard to their Bees and Bee-hives, it is a certain token that they are sick, and that some epidemicall, generall Pestilence or plague rageth amongst them, whereof that famous Poet Virgil hath very elegantly, but confusedly touched some part, in the fourth Book of his Georgicks, in these following Verses.

Si verò (quoniam lapsus Apibus, quoque nostris Vita tulit) tristi languebunt corp••rae, morbo, I〈…〉〈…〉 non dubiis poteris cogn••seere signis. Continuo est agris ali••s color, horrida vultum Deformat maties, tum corporaluc•• c••rentum Exportant tectis, & tristia funera ducunt, Aut illae pedibus connexa ad limina pendent, Aut intus clausis cunctantur in aedibus omnes, Ignavaeque fame, & contracto frigore pigrae. Tum sonus auditur gravior, tractimque susurrant. Frigidus at quando silvis immurmurat auster, Ʋt mare, solicitum stridet refluentibus undis, Aestuat aut clausis, rapidus fornacibus igni••.

In English thus;

The life of Bees is subject unto fall, Their bodies languish with diseases sad: This by undoubted signs discern you shall, Their bodies then with other colour is clad. A leannesse rough doth then deform their face, Then doth the living bring dead bodies out, And for their fellowes make a funerall place, Mourning sad exequies their dwellings all about, Or else with feet in feet they hang upon The threshold of their Hive, or else abide Close within doors, not looking on the Sun, Tell sloth by cold and famine their life up dry'd: Then also is their sound and voice more great, Drawing solt, like a Southern winde in woods, Or fire enclosed in burning furnace heat, Or as int' Sea falls back the sliding flouds.

And so the sicknesses of Bees being evidently known, plainly perceived, and cured, they will live many yeers, although Aristotle, Theophrastus, Pliny, Virgil, Varro, Columella, Cardan, and finally all Authors, would make us beleeve, that they seldome attain to nine years, but never to ten. Although we know by good experience, knowledge of place, and the credible attestation of men worthy be∣lief, that they have lived thirty years. Which only reason hath induced me to believe, that Bees (even by Natures appointment) are long lived, and that only with Albertus I only doubt, whether they die by means of old age.

I am not ignorant, how they are made away with the rage and violence of diseases, and other enemies, but if they have all things furnished fit for the preservation of their life, and prolongation of health, and the contrary far from them, I know no reason but that I should conclude them long lived, yea, more durable then any other living Creature, and never to die, but that I may not deny their time and turn to be mortall. For they only do feed upon Honey, that immortall Nectar, sent from heaven, and gathered from a divine dew (the very life and soul of all herbs, fruits, trees and plants.) Of whose nature, use and excellency, if you would know more, I must referre you to the learned writings of Physitians.

Of BEES called DRONES and THEEVES.

A Drone or a Dran in English, is of the Latines called Fucus, of the Greeks Kephen, and Thronaz, * 1.122 of the Illyrians Czeno, of the Germans Traen, of the 〈…〉〈…〉sgics Besonder strael, of the Spaniards Zangone, of the Italians, Ape che non fa mele, of the French Baradon, and Fullon, of the Pannonians (now called Hungarians) Here, of the Polonians Czezew. This kinde of Bee is called Fucus, as some think, quasi Fur, because he doth furtim mella devorare, devour Honey by stealth: although it be more agree∣able to truth that it is termed Eucus, because he doth Apibus fucum fraudemque facere: And through the colour and pretence of keeping warm the Hives, he spendeth their stock and undoes all their Honey-making. And therefore for some to derive Fucus the Latin word from Phagomai the Greek, seemeth to be farre fetched: Some again will draw Fucus, à fovendo, quia incubando apum juvant ••oeturas, and this in my minde is as harsh as the former.

Many men make the Drone to be one of the four sorts of Bees, which is very unadvisedly done, * 1.123 as some would make us beleeve: Because they bestow no pains in gathering the Honey, nor labour it throughly to have it perfectly wrought. He is twice so great as the common Bee, and greater then the Thief, so that in bignesse he eveneth, yea, surpasseth the King himself: and yet he attain∣eth unto this greatnesse, not by the gift of Nature, but by his custom and trade of life. For where∣as Bees do prepare and make their Cells for the breeding of Drones: they make them lesser then the Drones, and not here and there through the Hive, but only in the uttermost, and as it were in the banished or most out-cast place of all in the whole Camp and lodged Army. Besides, the small Worms of the Drones are far smaller at their first bringing forth, then those that are of the Kingly race, and linage of their Dukes: Who yet at length grow greater then any of them all, in regard that by labour and travail, they waste and diminish nothing of superstuous matter and those grosse humours, wherewith they abound; as also that both day and night (like Oxen lying at Rack and Manger) they gluttonously raven and stuffe themselves with the Honey-liquor, which they again pay for full dearly, in time of any general dearth and scarsity of victuall and provision.

Further this is to be added, that the Drone is of a more shining black colour then the true labour∣ing Bee, he is also greater then the greatest, without sting sluggish, idle, slothfull, without heart or courage, cowardous, and unapt to war, not daring to venture life and limb in manly Martial trade, as the true legitimate Bees will.

Aristotle saith, that they breed and live amongst the true Bees, and when they fly abroad, they are carryed scatteringly, here and there aloft in the air as it were, with some violence or tempest; so exercising themselves for a time, they return from whence they came, there greedily feeding upon the Honey. Now why the Drones may be compared with the Dukes and Princes, in respect of their corporature; and Bees like unto them in their sting, let us hear Aristotles reason. Nature would (saith he) there should be some difference, lest alwayes the same stock should encrease one of another confusedly, without order or consideration, which is impossible: For so the whole stock would either be Dukes or Drones. And therefore the true Bees in strength and power of engen∣dring, and breeding, are comparable to their Dukes, and the Drones onely in greatnesse of body resemble them: to whom if you allow a sting, you shall make him a Duke. These Drones further * 1.124 of the Grecians are called Cothouroi, because he putteth not forth any sting: whereof H••siodus hath these Verses thus interpreted;

Huic vero Dii succensent & homines quicunque otiosus Vivat, fucis ac aculeo carentibus similis studio, Qui apum laborem absumant ottosi V••rantes.—

In English thus;

Both God and men disdain that man Which Drone like in the hive, Nor good, nor ill, endeavour can Ʋpon himself to live, But idle is, and without sting, And grieves the labouring Bee Devouring that which he home brings, Not yeelding help or fee.

So that either he hath no sting at all, or else maketh no use of it for revengement. Pliny saith flatly, that they are stinglesse, and would have them called imperfect Bees, and the famous Poet Virgil styleth them, Ignavum pecus: that is, idle, and unprofitable, good for nothing Columella ma∣keth them a race or stock of a larger size, very like unto Bees, and accounteth them very aptly to be placed in the rank of ordinary sorts of Creatures, of the same kinde and company with Bees. They suffer punishment and are scourged many times in the whole Bee-common-wealth, not only for pretence of idlenesse, gluttony, extortion, and ravenous greedinesse, to which they are too much addicted; but because lacking their sting, and by that defect, being as it were emasculated, they dare not shew themselves in publick.

Pliny doth not expresse their nature and quality. The Drones are stinglesse and so to be reckon∣ed imperfect Bees, and of the basest sort, taking their Originall from tired and worn out Bees, and such as be past labour and service, living only upon a bare pension: we may call them the very slaves and bond-men of the true Bees, to whom they owe all due homage and subjection, where∣fore they exercise their authority over them, thrusting them first out of doors by head and shoul∣ders, like a company of drudges to their work; and if they be any thing negligent, not bestirring themselves quickly and lively, they give them correction, and punish them without all pity and mer∣cy. For in the moneth of June, two or three Bees (especially of the younger sort) will hase out of the Hive one Drone, there beating of him with their wings, pricking and tormenting him with their stings, and if he offer any resistance to their Lordly rule, then they violently cast him down from the shelf or step whereon he holdeth, down to the earth as though they would break his neck. Thus when they have glutted their wills, and punished him at the full, they at length put him to a shamefull death, all which we have often beheld, not without great admiration and pleasure.

Sometimes the Drones remain like banished persons, before the entrance of the Hive, and dare not venture to presse in. For three causes specially the Bees do drive and cast out the Drones: either when they multiply above measure, or when they have not place enough left for their la∣bourers, or that they be pinched with hunger and famine, for lack of Honey. And as they carry a deadly hatred against the Drones, so to make it more apparent they will not hurt such persons as offer either to take away with their bare hands any of the Drones, and to cast them away, yea, though they be in the greatest heat of their fight. Aristotle in his ninth Book, D•• 〈…〉〈…〉ts. Animal. Cap. 40 affirmeth, that Bees are engendred apart one from another; if their Captain liveth: but in case their King and Captain dies, some say they breed in the Bees Cells, and that of all others of this kinde, they are the most noble and couragious.

The young Drones are bred without any King, but the true younger Bees never: for they de∣rive * 1.125 their Originall and petigree from the Kingly stock. Some will say that the young Drones do fetch their Original from the flowers of the herb 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (described by Pliny, which is a kinde of Honey ••uckle, having the taste of the Honey and Wax together) from the Olive tree and Reed; but this opinion is weakly grounded, and standeth upon small reason.

Aristotle affirmeth, that they proceed from the longer and bigger Bees, yea, and those that are termed Thieves: which without question he received either from the ancient Philosophers, or

some others that had the charge and were skilful of ordering Honey, that lived in his time. Some will have them to breed and come from putrefaction, as Isido••e from stinking and putrefied Mules: Cardan from Asses. Plutarch and Servius from Horses. Othersome are of opinion, that they fi••st proceed of Bees, and that afterwards they degenerate bastardlike from them, after they have lost their stings, for then they become Drones: neither are they afterwards known to gather any Honey, but being as it were deprived of their strength, they grow effeminate, ceasing either to hurt, or to do any good at all.

Some again hold the contrary side, assuring us upon their knowledge, that the true labouring Bee fetcheth his beginning from the Drone, because long experience (the Mistress of Wisdome) hath taught us, that there is yearly known to be the greater swarm, when there is the greater multi∣tude of Drones. But this to me seemeth rather the devise and invention of some curious brain, then any true grounded reason. For because that many Drones breed (as it cometh always to passe in good and plentiful years) therefore there should be greater swarms, is no good consequent: but contrariwise, because the multitude of Bees do greatly increase through the moderatenesse of the pure air, and the plenty of the Honey-dropping dew, and through the abundance of this melliflu∣ous moisture, there must needs follow a greater foison and store of Drones: as the Philosopher hath well observed. But admit that this be true, that whereas there is the greater encrease of Drones, there should yearly ensue the more swarmings: yet must we not thereupon conclude, that Bees do owe, and ought to ascribe their first original from Drones, but rather that they are indebted and bound in honesty to the Drones, because in time of breeding, they give much warmth and comfort to their young, (as Pliny lib. 11. c. 11. saith) conferring upon them a lively heat, fit for their en∣crease and prospering. Some divide them into male and female, and that by coupling together they make a propagation of their kinde, although (as Athenaeus writeth) neither Drones nor Bees were ever yet seen of any one to couple together.

But whereas Wasps, Hornets, and other Cut-wasted creatures that make any combes, and breed in the same, have been sometimes (though seldom) seen, both by us and Aristotle, to joyn together, I can surely see no cause why we should utterly take from them the use of Venus, though in that re∣spect they be very modest and moderate.

I have before in the discourse of their generation, said, that the Bees do make the male kinde, and the Drones to be but the female; but sith that in the of Honey-making, they punish them so sharply after they have ejected them from possession first, so that afterwards they put them to death, I can hardly be induced to believe that the Drones are but the female kinde, considering that one thing would eclipse and overcast all those resplendent vertues which all men know to be in Bees, to deal thus cruelly with their Parents. To what use therefore serve they in Hives? Seeing Virgil in the fourth book of his Georgicks thus describeth them;

Immunisque sedens aliena ad pabula fucus.

That is to say;

The Drones as free and bold doth sit, And wast of others food commit.

Where Festus taketh Immunis, for lazy, idle, unserviceable, unprofitable, and such as are nothing worth, except perchance after the guise of wicked men, they so serve their own turns, as to live by the sweat of other mens labours, and to bring out of order, or utterly seek to overthrow the whole frame of the Common-wealth.

But the most approved Authors set down divers good use of Drones. For if there be but a few * 1.126 of them among the Bees, they make them the more careful about their affairs, and to look more du∣ly to their task: not by their good example, (for they live in continual idlenesse) but because they might continue their liberality towards strangers, they work the more carefully in their Honey-shop. And (if Bartholemaeus do not deceive us) these Drones be not altogether idle: but they im∣ploy themselves about the building of the Kings House, which they make large, stately, and very sumptuous in the higher and middle part of the combes, being very fair to see to in respect of their covering.

So then they are but lazy, in respect of Honey-making and gathering: but if you look toward their Art or Science of building, they are to be accounted excellent devisers of the frame and chief Masters of the whole work. For as the Bees do fashion out the combes of the Drones nigh the Kings Palace: so again, for the like counterchange of kindenesse, the Drones are the sole inventors, and principal work-masters of the Kings Court; for which cause both they and their off-spring, kins∣folks and friends, (if they have any) are bountifully rewarded of the whole stock of Bees, by giving them franckly and freely their diet and maintenance which costeth them nothing.

The Lockers or holes of the up-grown Bees, are somewhat too large, if you respect the quantity of their bodies, but their combes lesser; for those they build themselves, and these other are made by the Bees, because it was not thought convenient and indifferent, so great a portion of meat to be given to such vile labourers and hirelings, as was due to their own sons and daughters and those that are naturally subjects.

Tzetzes, and some other Greeks do besides affirm, that the Drones are the Bees Butlers or Porters to carry them water, ascribing moreover to them a gentle and kindely heat, with which they are said to keep warm, cherish and nourish the young breed of the Bees; by this means as it were, quick∣〈…〉〈…〉g them, and adding to them both life and strength.

The same affirmeth Columella in these words. The Drones further much the Bees for the procrea∣tion of their issue, for they sitting upon their kinde or generation, the Bees are shaped and attain to their figure, and therefore for the maintenance, education, and defence of a new issue, they re∣ceive the more friendly entertainment. And Pliny lib. 11 c 11. differeth not from him. For not only they are great helpers to the Bees in any architectonical or cunning devised frame (as he saith) but also they do good in helping and succouring their young, by giving them much warmth and kindely heat, which the greater it is (unlesse there be some lack of Honey in the mean space) the greater will the swarm be.

In sum, except they should stand the Bees in some good stead, the Almighty would never have enclosed them both in one house, and as it were made them freemen of the same City. Neither doubtlesse would the Bees by main force violently break in upon them, as being the sworn and professed enemies of their Common-wealth, except when their slavish multitude being too much increased, they might fear some violence or rebellion, or for lack of provision: at which time who seeth not, that it were far better the Master work-men, free Masons, and Carpenters might be spared, then the true labouring Husbandman, and tiller of the earth? Especially since that missing these, our life is endangered for lack of meat, and other necessaries, and those other for a time we may very well spare without our undoing, and for a need every one may build his own lodging. But as they be profitable members, not exceeding a stinted and certain number, so if they be too many, they bring a sicknesse called the Hive-evill, as well because they consume the food of the Honey-making Bees, as for that in regard of their extream heat, they choke and suffe∣cate them.

This disease is by the Author of Geoponicon thus remedied. Moisten with water inwardly the lid or covering of their Hive, and early in the morning opening it, you shall finde Drones sitting on the drops that are on the covers, for being glutted with Honey, they are exceeding thirsty, and by that means they will stick fast to the moist and dewie places of the cover: So that with small ado, you may either destroy them quite, or else if you please, take away what number you list your self. And if you will take away withall their young, who are not yet winged, and first pulling off their heads throw them among the other Bees, you shall bestow on them a very welcome dinner. But what the dreaning of Drones portended, and what matter they minister in the Hieroglyphi∣cal Art, let Apomasueris reveal and disclose out of the Schools of the Egyptians and Persians. I think I have discharged my duty, if I have set down their true uses, true nature, generation, degeneration, description, and names.

Fur in Latine, or Theef in English, is by Aristotle called Phoor, of Hesychius Phoorios: from whence * 1.127 I take the Latine word Fur to be derived. Some have thought that Theeves are one proper sort of Bees, although they be very great, and black, having a larger belly or bulk then the true Bee, and yet lesser then the drones, they have purchased this theevish name, because they do by theft and rob∣bery devour Honey, belonging to others, and not to them. The Bees do easily endure, and can well away with the presence of the Drones, and do as it were greet and bid one another welcome, but the Theeves they cannot endure, in regard that the Bees do naturally hate them, for in their ab∣sence the Theeves privily and by stealth creep in, there robbing and consuming their treasure of Ho∣ney, so greedily and hastily (without chewing) swallowing it down, that being met withall by the true Bees in their return homewards, and found so unweildy by means of their fulness, that they can∣not get away, nor be able to resist, but are ready to burst again, they are severely punished, and for their demerits by true Justice put to death. Neither thus only do they prodigally consume and spend the Bees meat, but also privily breed in their cells, whereby it often cometh to passe, that there are as many Drones and Theeves, as true and lawful Bees.

These neither gather Honey, nor build houses, nor help to bear out any mutual labour with Bees: for which cause they have Watch-men or Warders appointed to observe and oversee by night such as are over-wearied by taking great and undefatigable pains in the day time, to secure them from the Theeves and Robbers, who if they perceive any Theef to be stoln in a doors, they presently set up∣on him, beat, and either kill him outright, or leaving him for half dead, they throw him out. Often∣times also it happeneth, that the Theef being glutted and over-cloyed with Honey, cannot flie away or get himself gone in time, but lyeth wallowing before the Hives entrance, until his enemies either in coming forth or returning home do so finde him, and so with shame, discredit and scoffing∣scorn slay him.

Aristotle appointeth no office, charge or businesse to the Theef, but I think that he is ordained for this end, that he might be as it were a spur to prick forwards, and to whet and quicken the courage of * 1.128 the true Bees, when the other offer them any injury: and to stir and to encourage them to a greater vigilancy, diligence, and doing of right and justice to every one particularly. For I cannot see to what other purpose Theeves should serve in a Christian Common-wealth, or what use might be made of such as lie in wait to displeasure, and practice by crafty fetches, ambushes, and deceitful treacheries to wound their Neighbours, either in their estimation, credit, or goods. Thus having at large discoursed of the lesse hurtful and stinging sort of Bees, I will now apply my self to a more fumish, testy, angry, Waspish, and implacable generation, more venomous then the former, I mean Wasps and Hornets.

Of WASPS.

A Wasp of the Chaldeans is tearmed Deibrane. Of the Arabians, Zambor. Of the Englishmen a * 1.129 Wasp. Of the Germans, Ein Wespe. Of the Belgics, Harsel. Of the Gothes, Bool Getingth. The common people of Italy tearm it Vespa, and some of them do usually call it Muscone, and the Bono∣nians, Ʋrespa. The French, Guespe. The Spaniards, Abispa, and Vespa, imitating the Latines, who call it Vespa. The Polonians, Ossa. The Sclavonians, Woss. The Hungarians, Daras. Calepine saith, that it is called Vespa, quia vesperi muscas venatur in cibum. The Greeks do also name them diversly, for commonly they are called Sphekes. The Scholiast of Nicander calleth them Lucospades; and Suidas, Dellides, and Delithes. Of Hesychius, Auletai, and Passaleres; and Gaza nicknameth them Anthrenai: for these ought rather to be called Bees. Eustathius deriveth Tous spekas, apo tes diasphagon, because they seem to be so much cut asunder in the waste or middle, as that they seem to gape and to be clean cloven asunder, as by the figure here set before your eyes you may plainly perceive. A Wasp is a kinde of insect, that is swift, living in routs and companies together, having somewhat a long body encircled, with four membranous wings, (where of the two former are the greatest) without bloud, stinged inwardly, having also six feet, and a yellow colour, somewhat glistering like gold, garnished with divers black spots all over the body in form of a triangle. Whereupon peradventure Pollio would needs have it called Diachrusos.

The body of a Wasp seemeth to be fastened and tyed together to the midst of the breast, with a certain thin fine thread or line, so that by means of this disjoyned, and not well compacted compo∣sition, they seem very feeble in their loins, or rather to have none at all. Whereupon Aristophanes the Greek Poet, in his Comedy, entituled Spheces or Wasps, tearmoth all those Maids which are fine, slender, and pretty small in the waste, Sphecodeis, resembling them to Wasps, as if one should call them Wasp-wasted-wenches, whom Terence very quaintly and elegantly tearmeth Junceas, that is, slender, long, and small, like to a Bulrush. I think that all the whole pack of them have stings in ge∣neral, although I am not ignorant that some Authors hold the contrary, affirming that the breed∣ing female Wasps do want them: but thus much I can say of my own knowledge, that on a time finding a Wasps nest, and killing them every one by pouring hot scalding liquor into their holes, because I would bolt out the truth, I plainly perceived by long viewing of their bodies, that there was not one of them all but had a sting, either thrust out evidently, or closely and secretly kept and covered. So that:

—Quid nobis certius ipsis Sensibus esse potest, quo vera ac falsa notemus?

In English thus;

What can more certain be then sense, Discerning truth from false pretence?

They make a sound as Bees do, but more fearful, hideous, terrible, and whisteling, especially when * 1.130 they are provoked to wrath; from whence Theocritus fetcheth this proverb, Sphex bomboom tettigos enantion, that is, Scilicet obstrepitans argutae vespa cicadae: and this old said Saw may well be applyed to * 1.131 those who being themselves unlearned, will not stick to cry out, exclaim, and procure trouble to those that be more learned: or to such as be weak, feeble, and impotent persons able to do nothing, that will offer to contend with their betters and Superiors with their brawling speeches, and spiteful rayl∣ings. And this Latine proverb carryeth the same sense, Catulus leonem adlatrans.

If you will have the gifts and ornaments of their mindes described, you must consider that a Wasp is a creature that liveth in companies together, one with another, subject to a civil government un∣der one King or Ruler, industrious, mutual friends one to another, ingenious, crafty, subtle, quick, and cunning, of a very quarrelsome nature, and much subject to anger and testinesse. This is a good Argument of their Civil and Political manner of life, in that they live not solitarily in a Desert or Wildernesse where no man keepeth, but they build for themselves a City, both excellent and admi∣rable for the notable buildings and houses in it, where they spend their time (for the most part) ac∣cording to the mutable and never-failing laws of Nature, observing and keeping ever the Golden mean, as well in their daily tasks, as in their dispositions and affections of minde.

Besides, they are governed with a Kingly, not with a tyrannical government, (as Aelianus saith) although by nature they are great fighters, eager, boysterous, and vehemently tempestu∣ous: and he is led to say this, because their Dukes or Generals are stinglesse, or rather having stings as their subjects, they will not use the same to the hurt of their inferiors, by thrusting it forth, or striking in passion.

Now although they be twice so great, and harder and rougher then the other Wasps, yet are they not unfurnished of the vertue of patience and clemency, or gentle and debonair behavi∣our, by which means they keep in order, and contain in their lists, as it were by gentle language, their unruly rout, and mutinous companies. There is no man but will confesse, that this is an evident token and argument of their mutual love, and great good liking which they bear one to another: for whosoever dare be so knack-hardy as to come neer their houses or dwelling places

where they have to do, and to offer any violence or hurt to the same, at the noyse of some one of them, all the whole swarm rusheth out, being put into an amazed fear, to help their fellow-Citizen, and do so busily bestirre themselves about the ears of their molesters, as that they send them away packing with more then an ordinary pace: and if we will credit Aelianus, the Phase∣lites in times past were constrained to forsake their City, for all their defence, munition, and Ar∣mour, only through the multitude and cruel fiercenesse of the Wasps, wherewith they were annoyed.

Again, this manifestly proveth that they want not a hearty and fatherly affection, because with more then heroicall courage and invincible fury, they set upon all persons, of what degree or qua∣lity soever, that dare attempt to lye in wait to hurt or destroy their young breed, no whit at all dreading Neoptolemus, Pyrrhus, Hector, Achilles, or Agamemnon himself, the Captain generall of all the whole Grecians, if he were present. Yea, the Divine Poet Homer, in 12. lib. of his Illades, when he would expresse the haughty and generous spirits of the Greekish Chieftains, he likeneth them to Wasps in these words, Spekessin ajolois cradien kai Thumon echousais, that is, having the hearts and stomacks of Wasps, when they are to fight for their private dwellings, their dear Progeny and off-spring. The love that Bees carry to their issue is great, but it cannot be greater then that of Wasps, neither can they have a greater promptitude, alacrity, or desire to defend their young ones, if they be any way offended by passengers. Which thing Homer in his Iliads, lib. 12. insinuateth by the example of the chafing god Jupiter, who took it marvellous angry, and much repined at the sturdy stomacks of the Grecians, adding, that the Greeks did defend themselves as valiantly, and en∣dured the shock and assault of their enemies, as ever Wasps or Bees would in defence of their chil∣dren or issue; in these Verses following;

—Non enim ego putavi heroas Achivos Sustentaturos nostrum robur, & manus invictas: Illi autem quasi vespae acres atque apes, Quae nidos faciunt ad viam pulverulemam, Neque deserunt cavam domum: sed expectantes Viros vendiores pugnant pro filiis.

That is to say,

I did not think our noble Grecian Lords could bear Our force, and with unconquered hands maintain Our right: but they like Wasps and Bees devoid of fear, Which by high-wayes their houses use to frame, De not forsake their hollow dusty homes, What ere they be that come to hunt them out: Fighting with valor, (not fearfully like Drones) To rid their young ones both from death and doubt.

Besides this, they further build for them very large dwellings, with Chambers and floors, in a round and orbicular form, with rooms one above another, finely and wittily compacted, so that there is space enough of ingresse and regresse, and very defensible against all windes and weather, and yet their nests or houses are not all made after one fashion, but very different, some of them re∣presenting a Harp, some made much after the fashion of a Pear, a Toadstool, a Bottle, or budget of Leather, and some like a standing Cup with handles.

Some affirm, that the matter of their Combes is confused, rude, and ilfavouredly heaped up, full of bark and sand, but I could never as yet see it otherwise then light, slender, and thin like pa∣per, dry, transparent, gummy and thin, as though it were thin leaves of gold, shaken very easily hither and thither with the winde, and rising many times from the foot or foundation very small, and broad above like unto a Top. The place of this their building is divers, and much different for some respects. For if they have lost their Duke or principall Leader, then do they make them nests of clay in the high holes of walls and hollow Trees; and as some say (although hitherto I could never see it) they make Wax there also.

But in case they have a Generall or Duke, then they make their nests under the earth, their Cells or Chambers being formed with six angles or corners, much like unto Bees. They make their Combes round, much after the fashion of a broad Toad-stool, from whose centers there go∣eth forth as it were a short stalk or tying, by which the Comb cleaveth, and is fastened hard to the earth, or some tree, or peradventure to some other Combe. They have such a tender care over their females, (especially at such time as they are great with young) and suffer them so much to have their own wills, as they will neither permit them to take any pains abroad for their living, nor yet to seek for their meat at home: But the males flying about, (like good Purveyers) bring all home to their own dwellings, thereby as it were strictly enjoyning the females to keep them∣selves within doors.

All which fore-cited particulars, if a man would duly enter into consideration of them, he must needs confesse, (will he nill he) the admirable industry, diligence, wit, prudence, Art, sweat, and labour that is in these poor vermine. Their naturall inclination to anger, and the hasty fumishness of Wasps, not only Cocks, which do scratch and scrape up with their spurs their nests, do finde im∣placable, but even all other disturbers and provokers: From whence I take it that proverb hath sprung, Spekian erithizein, which the Latines as Plautus almost in the same sense useth, Irritare Cra∣brones: For Crabro among the Poets, is used sometimes for a Hornet, and otherwhiles for a Wasp.

In like manner Clemens Alexandrinus, Stromaton 2. when he would expresse and declare the foulness and abominable hurt of such sins that do lie in wait as it were to deceive, and watch to do displeasure to the life of man, hath these words, Houtoi gar (inquit) oi antagonistai pacheis 〈◊〉〈◊〉

Olumpicoi, sphecon hos eipein eisi drimuterai, kai malista hedone. That is, these fat, dull, grosse, and Olympicall enemies of ours, are worser then Wasps, more cruel and displeasant, and especially sensuall and worldly pleasure. Yea, whosoever dare adventure to challenge into the field this har∣dy and couragious little Creature, he shall (I dare be bold to say) but Cadmeam victoriam reportare, lose more then he shall get, whet his sword against himself, and return home by weeping crosse, con∣sidering that besides the noblenesse of their stout stomacks, and armed stings, they are withall so stiffe and obstinate, as that they will never give over.

They differ also in their first breeding, stock, sex, place, feeding, and manner of labour. Isidore saith, (although perhaps not so truly) that Wasps do first proceed from the rotten Carkases of dead Asses: for all hold opinion, that the black Flies called Beetles, do take their Originall from them. But I am rather moved to think that they were first bred from the dead body of some warlike and fierce Horse, and so also thinketh Pliny, in his eleventh book and twentieth Chapter. And the Gre∣cians have usually this famous and vulgar Verse in their ordinary talk.

Hippoi men sphekon genesis, Tauroi de melisson, Equi enim vesparum generatio, Tauri verò Apum.

In English thus;

Wasps do first come from Horses, and Bees are bred from Bulls.

And surely their incredible swiftnesse in their flight, their ardent and burning desire they have to fighting, are sufficient inducements to move me to think, that they took their first beginning from some gallant Horse, and not from Asses, Oxen, or Cowes, and much lesse from the fearfull Deer. For dame Nature hath seldome been so indulgent and friendly to any one beast besides an Horse, as to excell both in swiftnesse of pace, quicknesse of spirit, courage of stomack, and magna∣nimity. And I rather lean to this side, because else I do not know what sense I should give to that Aristotelean Proverb;

Chairete aellopodoon thugateres ippon, Salvete volucripedum filiae Equorum:

Which may be Englished thus;

All hail ye daughters of swift footed Horses.

For besides the truth that lyeth in the bare words, I take the morall of it to be uttered as a wit∣ty check, or a figurative flout, conceitedly to rebuke and hit in the teeth those shrewd women, curst and scolding wives, which are so peevish that they will not be pacified, who are like unto Wasps in their sullen displeasant humours, tempestuous madnesse and pelting chafe.

Some Wasps do proceed from the stinking Carkase of a Crocodile, if we may give any credit to the Egyptians and their fellowes; and for that cause, when they imagine or think a Wasp, they paint and draw out the shape and form of a Crocodile or a Horse. From hence Hierom Cardan would make this collection, that of every corrupted living Creature another doth proceed: which in my conceit is very absurd and against all reason. For this being granted, the generation of Wasps would be infinite, and daily experience would read a Lecture of contradiction against him, upon the progresse of Natures works. Many times Wasps do breed by the mutuall company of the male and female together, which though Athenaeus counteth but a fable, yet for all that, sith the Philosopher doth plainly tell us, that he hath been an eye-witnesse to the same, (as in his first book De generat. Animal. cap. 16. and in his ninth book De histor. Animal. cap. 41.) I will wholly incline to his judgement. But what manner of beginning they have by joyning together, and how it is perfected and accomplished, let us a little lend our listening ears to Aristotle, and Pliny his Interpreter.

The Princes or Ring-leaders of the Wasps, when they have made choice of a fit place for them∣selves under the earth, either in the holes, chinks, or clefts of the Rocks, or in thatched houses, (as I have often seen) there they make their Combes in the beginning of Summer, fashioning their small Cells with four little doors, wherein small Worms do breed, who when they are more grown, they make yet other greater doors or hatches, and then again when their young are at the greatest, they make others, so that towards the end of Autumn, you shall finde many, and those very large nests; wherein their principal Commander doth breed, not with every Wasp indifferently, but only with those of his own race and princely linage. They are bred in the most eminent and highest place of the Wasp-nest, like unto great Worms, their Cells being four or five in number, close joyned and couched together, for otherwise they would increase after the same sort in all respects, as the common Wasps do.

The excrement is only in the small Worms, and their young increase remaineth immoveable with∣out any stirring before they be able to flie, and whilest they are covered as it were with a thin membrane, and yet in the same season of the yeer, and in the space of one day, you shall mani∣festly perceive a great difference: for one flyeth out, another sticketh still as it were in the shell, another rolleth and tumbleth, and a fourth cannot stir one whit. All these have their beginning and increase for the most part in Autumn, not in the Spring, and especially in the full of the Moon. This one thing here is to be noted, that Wasps do not swarm, and that in Summer-time they are subject to Kings, and in Winter, Gunaicocrateia, the females regiment, or Muliebre

imperiam prevaileth. And when they have renewed and repaired their issue with a great supply, and that they be fresh and lusty, the Empire again returneth to the Masculine kinde, and yet it is but a short, brittle, and ruinous Empire, not able to bear up it self, although by Natures immutable de∣cree orderly ruled, and rightfully governed.

Aristotle saith, that it is not likely that the young Wasps are brought forth as a brood, because they be so great in bulk, as that in reason it should not seem probable, that so small a flie as a Wasp, should have such great young ones. But this is a bare and weak reason, not beseeming the dignity of so great a Philosopher. For what can any man alleadge to the contrary, why Nature in a lawful birth and breeding, should not as soon and as speedily finish, and make to grow and increase, as she doth in generation that proceeds of rottennesse or corruption, which I hold to be but illegitimate? Let us but call to minde young birds, in how short time after they be out of the shell, they be feathered, they be able to go, to eat, yea quickly increased in strength, and grown to their full greatnesse, so that they are in their full flowre ere one be a ware. All which when one hath throughly considered, he will easily judge that famous Philosopher Aristotle, to have relyed but upon a weak prop, having scarse probability to stand on his side for the maintenance of his opinion. His credit therefore at this time must not be sufficient to barre us the liberty of contradicting him.

The same Aristotle, the Monarch of our modern learning, saith that the small worms of Wasps, before they have any wings at all, are somewhat long, not much unlike those worms which Hippo∣crates calleth Eulai, that breed in flesh, called (as I judge) Maggots, but in our Countrey, Gentiles: and these Waspish worms are somewhat white, known and easily discerned by their slits or dashes, the hinder part of their body being very thick and grosse, having a black list or line running along their backs, without feet, not creeping, but rolling and tumbling themselves this way and that way confusedly. When they have disburthened themselves of their breed, they close up their cells with a certain thin small skin, which again being broken when they come to any perfection or growth, they get themselves out of dores into the clear light, and at two days end will be able to flie round about. The Philosopher maketh two kindes of Wasps, the one wilde and fell, the other more meek and quiet. The wilder sort is seldom seen, for they live and breed in Mountains and Woods, in Oke∣trees, and not in the earth, and this kinde is greater, blacker, more diversly coloured, and stingeth more cruelly then the other. After they have lived one whole year, they are seen to flie away, if in the Winter the tree be cut down. These kinde of Wasps I did once see in a Wood in Essex, where going unwarily to gather simples with another Physitian, and offending one of this furish genera∣tion, the whole swarm of them presently rushed forth about mine ears, and surely had I not had in my hand some sprigs or branches of broom for my defence, I had undoubtedly paid dearly for this my unadvisednesse, if it had not cost me my life, for they pursued me in every place of the Wood, with a vehement rage for a long season, insomuch that I was fain to take me to my heels, and so to seek to save my self from further danger. And if our own Countryman Sir Francis Drake himself had been there, although he was (as Meteranus a stranger, (and so unpartial) in his Bel∣gick History right truly observed,) Omnium ducum nostri seculi fortissimus ac famosissimus, yet I make no doubt, but he would have taken my part, and been a companion with me in this my fear∣ful flight.

Some of these Wasps, as well those of the crueller kinde as those of the gentler, do lack a sting, (or rather I think they use it not.) Othersome again of both sorts, are furnished with stings, and those that want them, are ever the lesser and weaker, neither revenging themselves any way, nor offering to make resistance. Contrariwise, those who have stings are greater, stronger, more quar∣rellous contentious, stubborn and eager. Some account these the males, and those other stinglesse to be the females. Many of those which have stings, do forgoe and quite lose them when Winter draweth on, as some make reckoning, but it was never my hap to see this, saith the Philosopher in his 9. Book De hist. Animal. capit. 41.

If you catch a Wasp, holding her fast by the feet, suffering her to make her usual humming sound, you shall have all those that lack stings presently come flying about you, which the stinged Wasps never are seen to do. Therefore some hold this as a good reason, to prove that the one should be the male, the other the female. Both these sorts, both wilde and unwilde, have been seen to couple to∣ger after the manner of flies. Besides, (in respect of sex) both kindes of Wasps are divided into Cap∣tains or Ring-leaders, and into labourers: those former are ever greater in quantity, and of more calm disposition; these other, both lesser, more froward, testy, peevish, and divers. The males of labourers, never live one whole year out, but all of them die in the Winter time, which is evident by this, because in the very beginning of cold weather, they are as it were frozen or benummed, and in the depth or midst of hard winter, a man shall hardly or never see any of them.

But yet for all that, their Dukes or principal Chieftains, are seen all the Winter long to lie hid in their lurking holes under the earth: and indeed many men when they plowed or broke up the ground, and digged in Winter, have found of this sort. But as for the labouring Wasp, I never as yet heard of any that could finde them. Their Principal or Captain, is broader, thicker, more pon∣derous and greater then the male Wasp, and so not very swift in flight, for the weightinesse of their bodies is such an hinderance to them, that they cannot flie very far: whereby it cometh to passe, that they ever remain at home in their hives, there making and devising their combes, of a certain gluti∣nous matter or substance, brought unto them by the Work-wasps: thus spending their time in exe∣cuting and doing all those duties that are meet, intheir Cells.

Wasps are not long lived, for their Dukes (who live longest,) do not exceed two years. And the labouring, that is the male Wasps, together with Autumn, make an end of their days. Yea which is more strange, whether their Dukes or Captains of the former year, after they have ingendered and brought forth new sprung up Dukes, do die, together with the new Wasps, and whether this do come to passe after one and the self same order, or whether yet they do and may live any longer time, divers men do diversly doubt. All men hold the wilder kinde to be more strong of nature, and to continue and hold out the longer. For why, these other making their nests neer unto common high-ways and beaten paths, do live in more hazard, lie open to divers injuries, and so more subject to shortnesse of life.

The brevity of their life, is after a sort recompensed, and some part of amends made by the rare clammy glewishnesse of the same: for if you separate their bulks from the head, and the head from the breast, they will live a long while after, and thrust out their sting almost as strongly as if they were undivideable, and free from hurt and deaths harm.

Apollonius calleth Wasps Omotoroi, and Aristotle, Meloboroi; although they do not only feed on raw flesh, but also on Pears, Plums, Grapes, Raisins, and on divers and sundry sorts of flowers and fruits; of the juyce of Elms, Sugar, Honey, and in a manner of all things that are seasoned, tempered, made pleasant, or prepared with either of these two last rehearsed.

Pliny in his 11. Book capit. 53. is of opinion that some Wasps, especially those of the wilder and feller kinde, do eat the flesh of Serpents, which is the cause that death hath sometimes ensued of their poysonous stinging. They also hunt after great flies, not one whit sparing the harmlesse Bees, who by their good deeds have so well deserved. According to the nature of the soyl and place, they do much differ in their outward form and fashion of their body, and in the manner of their qualities and dispositions of their minde: for the common Wasps being acquainted, and familiarly used to the company of Men and Beasts, are the gentler; but the Hermites and solitary Wasps are more rude, churlish, and tempestuous: yea Nicander tearmeth them Oloous, that is, pernicious. They are also more unhappy, dangerous, and deadly in very hot Countries, as Ovidius reporteth, and namely in the West-Indies: where both in their magnitude and figure, there is great difference betwixt theirs and ours, so that they are accounted far more poysonous and deadly, then either the English, French, Spanish, or Barbarian Wasps. Some of these dangerous generation do also abound in exceeding cold Countries, as Olaus Magnus in his 22. Book telleth us.

Their use is great and singular: for besides that they serve for food to those kind of Hawks which are called Kaistrels or Fleingals, Martinets, Swallows, Owls, to Brocks or Badgers, and to the Came∣lion: they also do great pleasure and service to men sundry ways, for the kill the Phalangium, which is a kinde of venomous Spider, that hath in all his legs three knots or joynts, whose poyson is perilous and deadly, and yet Wasps do cure their wounds.

Raynard the Fox likewise, who is so full of his wiles and crafty shifting, is reported to lie in wait to betray Wasps after this sort. The wily thief thrusteth his bushy tail into the Wasps nest, there hold∣ing it so long until he perceive it to be full of them, then drawing it slily forth, he beateth and smiteth his tail full of Wasps against the next stone or tree, never resting so long as he seeth any of them alive; and thus playing his Fox like parts many times together, at last he setteth upon their combes, devour∣ing all that he can finde.

Pliny greatly commendeth the so litary Wasp to be very effectual against a Quartain Ague, if you catch her with your left hand, and tie or fasten her to any part of your body, (always provided, that it must be the first Wasp that you lay hold on that year) Mizaldus memor. Cent. 7. attributeth * 1.132 great vertue to the distilled water, and likewise to the decoction of common Wasps, affirming ex∣presly, that if any part be therewith anointed, it straight ways causeth it to swell monstrously, and to be pussed up, that you would imagine them to be sick of a Dropsie: and this course crafty drabs and queans use to perswade their sweet hearts, that they are forsooth with childe by them: thus many times beguiling and blinding the eyes of wary and expert Midwives. Whereupon we may very confidently conclude, that their poyson is very hot, flatulous or windy. Some do prole after Wasps, and kill them by other sleights and devises. For when the labourers do much use and frequent Elms, which they do very often about the Summer solstice, to gather from them some gummy and clammy matter, their Dukes and Princes being at home, not standing still, but setling themselves to their businesse or trade, and helping to hatch up their young, they are suddenly choked with the fume of Brimstone, Garlick, the branches of Coleworts, or other pot-herbs, or else by breaking down and overthrowing their combes, they dye through famine.

When you are minded to defend the Bees from the invasion and spoil of Wasps, you must set a pot with some pieces of flesh in it neer the Hive, and when the Wasps (in hope of some prey) are en∣tered, suddenly clap over the cover, and so destroy them; or else by pouring in some hot water at the top, you may scald them all to death in the pot. In like sort; some do gently breath upon Raisins, Fruits, Sugar, Honey, Oyl, by which, either the Wasps are chased away or by tasting the Oyl do die. And again, some do mix corrosives with Honey, (as for example, Sublimate, Vitriol, Auripigmentum, &c.) that they by taking this venomous or poyson infected drink, may suffer condign punishment for their intemperate and insatiable gluttony.

Of the stinging of Wasps there do proceed divers and sundry accidents, passions and effects, as pain, disquieting, vexation, swelling, rednesse, heat, sweatings, disposition or will to vomit, loathing and abhorring of all things, exceeding thirstinesse, and now and then fainting or swounding;

especially when after the manner of venomous creatures, they have infected their stings either by tasting the flesh of some Serpents, or by gathering their food from venomous plants.

I will now set before your eyes and ears one late and memorable example of the danger that is * 1.133 in Wasps, of one Allens wife, dwelling not many years since at Lowick in Northamptonshire, which poor woman resorting after her usual manner in the heat of the Summer to Drayton, the Lord Mordams house, being extreamly thirsty, and impatient of delay, finding by chance a black Jack or Tankard on the Table in the Hall, she very inconsiderately and rashly set it to her mouth, never suspecting or looking what might be in it, and suddenly a Wasp in her greedinesse passed down with the drink, and stinging her, there immediately came a great tumor in her throat with a rednesse puf∣fing and swelling of all the parts adjacent; so that her breath being intercepted, the miserable wretch whirling herself twice or thrice round, as though she had had some Virtiginy in her brath, presently fell down and dyed. And this is known for a truth, not only to me, but to most of the Inhabitants thereabouts, being as yet fresh in their memories, and therefore their authorities as I take it, is unreproveable.

Now, for fear lest I should lose my self in this troublesome and vast Ocean of Natures admirable fabricature, I will now discourse of such medicinal means, as will defend from their furious malice. The vertue of Mallows, and of Althea, (called Marsh-mallow) is notable against the prickings of Wasps. For the softest and most emollient herb, is applyed as a contrary to a warlike and hurtful creature, whose juyce being anointed with Oyl, either abateth the rage of Wasps, or so blunteth and dulleth their sting, that the pain is not very sharp or biting. Pliny lib. 21. copit. 171. And of the same minde is Avicen: Wasps (saith he) will not come near any Man if he be anointed with Oyl and the juyce of Mallows. For as a soft answer doth frangere iram, and as the Grecians have a saying, * 1.134 Edus Megiston estin orges pharmakon logos: So also in natural Philosophy we see, that hard things are quailed, and their edge even taken off with soft and suppling: as Iron with a fine, small, and soft feather, the Adamant stone with bloud, and the sting of Wasps, Hornets and Bees, with Oyl and Mallows.

What is softer then a Caterpiller? and yet if Aetius credit be of sufficience, the same being beaten with Oyl, and anointed upon any part preserveth the same from the wounds and stings of Wasps. And of the same vertue is the herb called Balm, being stamped and mixed with Oyl. The same symptomes or accidents do follow the stinging of Wasps, as of Bees, but far more painful, and of longer continuance, to wit, rednesse, and intolerable pain, and Apostumes. And if any be strucken of the Orange or yellow coloured Wasps, especially in a sinewy or some sensible part, there will follow a Convulsion, weaknesse of the knees, swounding, yea, and sometimes death, as be∣fore I have touched.

Against the stinging of Wasps divers medicines are prescribed by Physitians, but I will speak of * 1.135 such only as I have made proof of, and such as are confirmed by long experience. Gilbert the Eng∣lishman, saith, that Wasps being bruised and applyed to the place affected, do cure their own wounds very strangely. The same vertue peradventure, not only the Scorpion, but the greater * 1.136 part of Insects have, if any one would make any diligent trial thereof. If a man be stinged of any venomous Wasps (which is easily known by the blewnesse of the place, madnesse, raving and faint∣ing of the party, and coldnesse of the hands and feet) after you have given him inwardly some Alexi∣pharmacal medicine, the place agrieved must be lanched, or rather opened with a Cautery, so be∣ing thus enlarged and opened, the venom must be well sucked out, and the paring or shaving of that earth wherein the Wasps build their nests, must be wrought and kneaded with Vinegar, and so ap∣plyed like a Cataplasm.

A plaister also made of Willow-leaves, Mallows, and the combe of Wasps, is very medicinable for the same, as by the counsel of Haly Abbas I have experimented. The English Northern men, do pre∣pare * 1.137 most excellent emplaister worth gold, against all stings of Wasps, only of that earth whereof their Ovens are made, having Vinegar and the heads of Flyes commixed therewith Let the place be very well rubbed with the juyce of Citrals, and withall, let the party that is pained drink of the seed of Marjoram beaten to powder the quantity of two drams: or thus, Take of the juyce of Mar∣joram two ounces of Bole Armony two drams, with the juyce of unripe Grapes so much as is suffici∣ent, make an emplaister. Another. Anoint the place with the juyce of Purcelane, Beets, or sweet Wine, and Oyl of Roses, or with Cows bloud, or with the seeds of the Spirting or wilde Cucumber (called Noli••me tangere) beaten with some Wine. Thus far Galen. Barley Meal wrought up with Vi∣negar, and the Milk or juyce of a Fig-tree, Brine, or Sea-water, are excellent for these griess (as Dioscorides lib. 8 cap. 20. writeth) if the wound be often fomented, bathed, or soaked with any of them. To drink, give two drams of the young and tender leaves of Bays with harsh Wine, and if the part affected be only anointed with any of these, they are much available. In like sort the deco∣ction of Marsh-mallows drunk with Vinegar and water, are much commended, and outwardly salt with Calves fat: Oyl of Bays draweth out the poyson of Wasps. The leaves of Marsh-mallows (as Aetius saith) being bruised and applyed, do perform the same.

The juyce of Rue or Balm, about the quantity of two or three ounces drunk with Wine, and the leaves being chewed and laid on with Honey and Salt, or with Vinegar and Pitch, do help much. Water-cresses, Rosemary, with Barley meal, and water with Vinegar sod together, the juyce of by leaves, Marigolds, the bloud of an Owl, all these are very effectual against the stingings of Wasps: as Pliny lib. 31. cap. 9. telleth us; the buds of the wilde Palm-tree, Endive with the root, and wilde

Thyme being applyed plaister-wise do help the stinging of Wasps. After the venom is drawn out by sucking, the place affected must be put into hot water the space of an hour, and then suddenly they must be thrust into Vinegar and Brine, and forthwith the pain will be asswaged, the tumor cease, and the malice of the venomous humor clean extinguished. Rhazes saith, that the leaves of Night-shade, * 1.138 or of Sengreen, do very much good in this case. And in like sort Bole Armony with Vinegar and Camphire, and Nuts beaten with a little Vinegar and Castoreum.

Also take the Combe with Honey applying to the place, and hold the grieved place neer the fire immediately, and laying under them a few ashes, binde them hard, and forthwith the pain will be swaged. Serapio saith, that Savory, or Cresses applyed, and the seed thereof taken in drink, and the * 1.139 juyce of the lesser Centory mixt with Wine, are very meet to be used in these griefs; he also com∣mendeth for the same purpose the leaves of Basil, the herb called Mercury, and Mandrakes, with Vinegar. Ardoynus is of opinion, that if you take a little round ball of Snow, and put it into the * 1.140 fundament, the pain will cease, especially that which proceedeth by Wasps. Let the place be anointed with Vinegar and Camphire, or often fomented and bathed with Snow-water. Take of Opium, of the seed of Henbane and Camphire, of each alike much, and incorporate them with Rose-water, or the juyce of Willows, and lay it upon the wounded place, applying on the top a linnen cloth, first throughly wetted in wine. Johannes Mesue (who of some is called Evangelista medicorum) pre∣scribed * 1.141 this receipt of the juyce of Sisimbrium two drams and a half, and with the juyce of Tartcitrons make a potion. The juyce also of Spina Arabica, and of Marjoram are nothing inferiour to these forementioned. Aaron would in this grief have water Lintels (called by some Ducks meat) to be * 1.142 stamped with Vinegar, and after to be applyed.

Constantine assureth us, that Alcama tempered with Barley meal and Vinegar, and so bound to the * 1.143 place, as also Nuts, leaves of Wall-nuts, and Bleets, are very profitable in this passion. Item, ap∣ply very warm to the wound a Spiders web, bruised with a white Onion, and sufficient Salt and Vi∣negar, will perfectly cure it. Guil. Placentinus will warrant, that a plate of cold Iron laid upon the * 1.144 wound, or Lead steeped in Vinegar, will do the deed. Gordonius counsel is to rub the place with Sage and Vinegar, and afterwards to foment it with water and Vinegar sod together. Varignana would have us to apply Chalk in powder, and inwardly to take the seeds of Mallows boiled in Wine, Water, and a little Vinegar.

Matthiolus much commendeth Sperage being beaten and wrought up with Honey, to anoint the * 1.145 place. Likewise flies beaten and anointed on the place, winter Savory, Water-cresses, with Oyl of Momerdica, give most speedy help. Arnoldus Villanovanus assureth us, that any fresh earth, especially * 1.146 Fullers earth, is very available, and the herb called Poley, used as an Unguent, or else Goats milk. And Marcellus Empirious is not behinde his commendations for the use of Bullocks dung, to be ap∣plyed as a poultesse to the stinged part.

These and many others may any Man ascribe that hath had but an easie tast of the infinity of Phy∣sicks speculation, for the store-house of Nature, and truly learned Physitians, which way soever you turn you, will minister and give sufficient store of alexiterial medicines for the expulsing of this grief. In conclusion one and the self same medicament will serve indifferently for the curation of Wasps and Bees, saving that when we are stung with Wasps more forcible remedies are required, and for the hurts that Bees do us, then weaker and gentler are sufficient. In the hundreth and nintieth year before the birth of our blessed Saviour, an infinite multitude of Waspes came flying into the Market place at Capua, (as Julius witnesseth) and lighted on the Temple of Mars, all which when with great regard and diligence they were gathered together and solemnly burnt, yet for all that they presignified the coming of an enemy, and did as it were fore-tell the burning of the City, which shortly after came to passe. And thus much for the History of the Wasp.

of HORNETS.

A Hornet is called of the Hebrews, Tsirbah. Of the Arabians, Zabar, and Zambor. Of the Germans, * 1.147 Ein hornauss, Horlitz, Froisin, Ofertzwuble. Of the Flemings, Horsele. Of the Frenchmen, Trel∣lons, Fonlons. Of the Italians, Calauron, Crabrone, Scaraffon, and Galanron. Of the Spaniards, Tabarros ò Mos∣cardos. Of the Illyrians, Irssen. Of the Sclavonians, Sierszen. Of us Englishmen, Hornets, and great Wasps. The Grecians call them Anthrénas, and Anthrenoùs, because with their sting they raise an An∣thrar or Carbuncle, with a vehement inflamation of the whole part about it. The Latines call them Crabrones, peradventure of Crabra, a Town so named in the Territory of Tusculanum, where there is great plenty of them: or it may be they are tearmed Crambrones of Caballus (a Horse) of whom they are first engendered: according to that of Ovid, 15. Metamorphos.

Pressus humo bellator equus Crabronis origo est.

That is to say;

When War-horse dead upon the Earth lies, Then doth his flesh breed Hornet flies.

Albertus tearmeth a Hornet Apis citrina, that is a yellow or Orange coloured Bee. Cardan la∣boureth much to prove that dead Mules are their first beginners. Plutarch is of opinion, that they

first proceed from the flesh of dead Horses, as Bees do out of a Bulls belly: and I think that they have their breeding from the harder, more firm and solid parts of the flesh of Horses, as Wasps do from the more tender or soft. Hornets are twice so great as the common Wasps, in shape and pro∣portion * 1.148 of body much resembling one another. They have four wings, the inward not being half so large as the outward, being all joyned to their shoulders, which are of a dark, brownish, and of a Chestnut-like colour, these wings are the cause of their swift flight: they have also six feet of the same colour and hew, that their breast and shoulders are of. There is somewhat long, of the colour of Saffron, their eyes and looks are hanging or bending downwards, crooked and made like a half Moon, from which grow forth two peaks like unto Sithes or two sickles, nothing varying in colour from their feet. Their belly is as though it were tyed to their shoulders with a very fine thred, the for∣ward and middle part whereof is overcast with a brown colour, and begirt as it were with a girdle of Saffron. The hinder part is altogether yellow, easily discerned and remarkable for those brown pricks or specks, every one of them being much like unto a small triangle, besides they have cer∣tain clefts or slits on both sides, both before and behinde, by which they can at their pleasure when they list, either shrink up themselves, or draw and gather themselves together, and with the same again lengthen and stretch out their bodies. They have also neer to their belly on both sides four black spots, and in their tail they are armed with a strong piercing sting, and the same very ve∣nomous. They make a sound or a buzzing strange noise, morehideous and dreadful then Wasps do. They are shrewd, fierce and cruel, quickly angry and wrathful, and although they live in companies together, yet notwithstanding they are ever known to be but of an homely, rude, curst, and untractable disposition and nature, and will never be brought by any Art or fashioning to lay aside their uplandish wildenesse, (as some herbs will do that are transplanted into Gardens.)

They are besides this of such a mischievous malignity and venomous quality, that as some affirm, nine of their stings will kill a Man, and three times nine will be able to kill a strong Horse; especially at the rising of the Dog-star, and after, at which time they have a more fiery, hasty, and inflaming nature, and men at that season, by reason of their large exaltation and sending forth of spirits, grow more weak and faint.

And therefore it is no marvail though in holy Scripture, they are compared or likened to most fierce and cruel enemies, which should put and cast forth the Canaanites, Plittites, and Chevites, Exod. 23. 28. So likewise Ovid in the eleventh Book of his Metamorphos. hath these words, Spicula carbto∣num ardentia, The burning stings of Hornets: And Virgil in the fourth Book of his Georgicks, cal∣leth them Asperrima, most sharp and violent. Terence (the most eloquent of all Comical Poets) in his Comedy intituled Phormio, and Plautus in his Amphitryo, have this Proverb, Irritavi crabrones, I have provoked or incensed the great Wasps to anger: which I suppose they used as a by-word against the properties, natures, and froward behaviours of women, who being in their wonted furnish mood, if once you go about to overthwart them, or a little to contrary their wilfulnesse, you shall pull an old house over your own head by a further provocation, and perhaps if you get you not the sooner out of their sight and reach of their clutches, you may chance have somewhat more flying about you ears then you would.

It is good therefore if you have a Wife, that is Calcato immitior hydra, unquiet and contentious, to let her alone, not to wake an angry Dog: and when a mischief is well quieted and brought asleep, to go your ways and say never a word. Whereas among Bees, their Drones and Kings do want stings; yea, and some Wasps too, as before I have writ: yet notwithanding all Hornets in general, as well the greater sort of them that build their houses in trees, as the lesser sort that dwell in the earth, are provided of stings, neither do their Ring-leader seem to be unarmed. For Wasps have their Presidents of their own society, and their Captains general as well as Bees and Wasps, whatsoever Pliny lib. 11. cap. 21. dream to the contrary: which in proportion and quantity are far greater (if you respect the bodies of other Hornets) then either the Captains of the Bees and Wasps are in comparison of their subjects. These also spend their time within doors, as the Captain of Wasps do, not having many but one head to guide and rule over them, lest by banding into parties and factions, some civill war (wherein all things are miserable, as Tully saith) or other mutiny might * 1.149 arise to their final destruction. They are great vexers and troublers, and even like such as had sworn the death of their enemies, robbers, and theeves: And yet at home they nourish peace, ex∣celling even the very Bees themselves in their painful, earnest, and willing desire to maintain their stock and common society.

For neither do they chide, braul, or contend, nor yet make any stir or rustling when any is pro∣moted to any office or place of preferment in their corporation; neither are they distracted into divers mindes with their businesses, neither yet do they raise any tumult, make any uprore, or keep a coil or ruffling at the election of their Prince and Captain general, but with common consent they use but one Table, taking their commons together like good friends and fellows, and whatsoever they kill, they carry some part of it home, frankly imparting it to their neighbors, children, and companions.

Neither do they yearly drive and expel forth of the doors to seek new habitations, where they can, (as some Bees deal very churlishly and unnatural with their young) but they contrarywise in their bosome defend and keep warm their new springed up progeny and race, building for them greater Houses, and raising of moe Sellers and flores, bording and planking the same in case of necessity, never ceasing till they be fully rear'd and made fit for defence and safety. But as for their

King and Captain (whom they exceedingly honor and highly esteem) they make choyce of such a one, as neither seemeth to be a King without a Kingdom, nor a Prince without people and possessi∣ons, and yet he so behaveth himself, and carryeth himself so evenly, as though he had but little to do in this his Empire. And yet in largenesse of body and greatnesse of his heart, in stoutnesse and statelinesse of stomach and person, he staineth all the rest, carrying away the prize from them all: and when there is Proclamation of War to be made against any forain foes, and that their flags and ancients be displayed by sounding his deadly blast, he giveth defiance to his enemies, most couragiously bestirring himself more then any of his followers, shewing himself both most vehe∣ment, warlike, and skilful in fight, and yet again at home towards his subjects, (like a true noble spirit) he is very gracious, gentle, and temperate, tractable, easie to be ••ntreated, and most ready to forgive. They make for themselves certain holes or dwelling places under the ground, casting forth the earth much after the fashion of Pismires: for you must understand that neither Wasps nor Hor∣nets do send forth any Swarms as Bees do, but those young Hornets which spring from them now and then, do there remain among their breeders, making their beds or hives much greater, by means of the earth formerly cast out.

They enlarge their combes exceedingly, by adding more and more unto them, so that of a strong and healthy stock of Hornets, it hath been known they have gathered three or four trays or baskets full of combes. If any Hornets stray from their own home, they repair to some tree, and there in the top of it make their combes, so that one many times may very easily and plainly perceive them, and in these they breed one Captain General, or great Commander, who when he is grown to be great, he carryeth away the whole company, placing them with him in some convenient lodging. Wilde Hornets (as Pliny saith) do live in the hollow trunks or cavities of trees, there keeping them∣selves close all the Winter long, as other Cut-wasts do.

Their life is but short, for they never exceed the age of two years. Their combes are wrought with greater cunning, more exquisite Art; and curious conceit, then those either of Wasps or Bees, and these excellent devisers do make them one while in the trunks of trees, and sometimes again in the earth, encreasing them at their pleasure with more floors and buildings, according to the encrease of their issue, making them smooth and bright, decking and trimming them with a certain tough or binding slime or gelly gathered from the gummy leaves of plants. Neither do any of the little mouths or entries of their cells look upwards, but every one bendeth downwards: and the bottom is placed upwards, lest either the rain might soke through them in long showers, or the head of them being built upwards, they might lie open and be the more subject, and exposed to the unruly rage and furious blasts of windes and storms.

If you eye well their nests, you shall finde them all for the most part exactly sexangular or six cornered, the outward form and fashion whereof is divided with a murry coloured partition: and their membranous substance is much like unto the rinde or bark of Birch, which in the parching heat of Summer cleaveth and openeth it self into chaps. The stinging of Wasps is for the most part ac∣companyed with a Fever, causing withal a carbuncle, swelling, and intolerable pain.

I my self being at Duckworth in Huntingtonshire, my native soyl, I saw on a time a great Wasp or Hornet making after, and fiercely pursuing a Sparrow in the open street of the Town, who at length being wounded with her sting, was presently cast to the ground, the Hornet satisfying her self with the sucked bloud of her quelled prey, to the exceeding admiration of all the beholders and considerers of this seldom seen combate. Aristotle, whom I so greatly reverence, and at whose name I do even rise and make curtesie, knows not of a surety how Hornets do engender, nor after what manner they bring forth their young breed. But since we are assured of this, that they bring forth their young by the sides of their Cells, as Wasps and Bees, we need not doubt, but that they do all other matter after their manner, and if they couple together, they do it by night, as Cats do, or else in some secret corner, that Argus with his hundred eyes can never espy it.

Hornets gather meat not from flowers, but for the most part they live upon flesh, whereby it cometh to passe, that you shall often finde them even in the very dunghils, or other ordure. They also proul after great Flyes, and hunt after small Birds, which when they have caught into their clutches, after the manner of hungry Hawks, they first wound them in the head, then cutting it asunder, or parting it from the shoulders carrying the rest of the body with them, they betake themselves to their accustomed flight. The greater sort of them die in the hard Winter, because they store not themselves sufficiently aforehand with any sustenance as Bees do, but make their pro∣vision but from hand to mouth, as hunger enforceth them, as Aristotle enformeth us. In like sort Landius hath well observed, that Hornets both day and night keep watch and ward besides the hives of Bees, and so getting upon the poor Bees backs, they use them instead of a Waggon or carriage: for when the silly Bee laboureth to be discharged of his cruel Sitter: the Hornet when he hath sucked out all his juyce, and clean bereft him of all his moisture, vigour and strength, like an unthank∣ful Guest and the most ingrateful of all winged creatures, he spareth not to kill, and eat up his fo∣sterate and chief maintainer.

They feed also upon all sweet, delicious, and pleasant things, and such as are not untoothsome and bitter, and the Indian Hornets are so ravenous, and of such an insatiate glutt only (as Ovi∣dius reporteth) that they flie upon Oyl, Butter, greasie Cooks, all sorts of sharp sawce used with meats, and all moist and liquid things, not sparing the very Napkins and Table clothes, and other linnen that is any way soiled, which they do filthily contaminate with the excrements of their belly, and with their Viscous laying of their egges.

But as they get their living by robbery, and purloining of that which others by the sweat of their brows, by their own proper wits and invention, and without the aid and help of any do take great pains for: so again they want not revenge to punish, and a provost Marshal to execute them for their wrongful dealings: tearmed of some a Gray, Brock, or Badger, who in the full of the Moon * 1.150 maketh forcible entrance into their holes or lurking places, destroying and turning topsie-turvy in a trice their whole stock, family, and linage, with all their houshold stuffe and possessions.

Neither do they only minister food to this passing, profitable, and fat beast, but they serve in stead of good Almanacks to Countrey people, to foretel tempests and change of weather, as Hail, Rain, and Snow for if they flie about in greater numbers, and be oftner seen about any place, then usually they are wont, it is a signe of heat and fair weather the next day. But if about twilight they are observed to enter often their nests, as though they would hide themselves, you must the next day expect rain, winde, or some stormy, troublesome or boysterous season: whereupon Avienus hath these verses;

Sic & crabronum rauca agmina si volitare Fine sub Autumni conspexeris aethere longo, I am verspertinos primos cum commovet ortus Virgilius, pelago dices instare porcellam.

In English thus;

So if the buzzing troups of Hornets hoarse to flie, In spacious air bout Autumns end you see, When Virgil star the evening lamp espie, Then from the Sea some stormy tempest sure shall be.

Furthermore, since it is most certain that those remedies which do heal the stingings of Wasps, * 1.151 do also help those wounds and griefs which Hornets by their cruel stinging cause, yet notwithstand∣ing, as Aggregator hath pronounced, the Zabor is the Bezoar, or proper antidote of his own hurt, if he be oftentimes applyed with Vinegar and Water, Oyl and Cow-dung tempered together. In like sort all manner of soils and earths that are miry and muddy, are much commended in this case, such as Bacohus applyed to bald Selenus, who was wounded with Hornets, when longing for a little Honey, he jogged and shaked their nests, thinking he had lighted upon some Bees Honey, which Ovid most elegantly 3. Fastorum hath described in these verses;

Millia crabronum coëunt, & vertice nudo Spicula defigunt, ora{que} prima notant. Ille cadit praeceps, & calce feritur aselli: Inclamat socios, auxilium{que} vocat. Concurrunt Satyri, turgentia{que} era parentis Rident, percusso claudicat ille genu. Ridet & ipse Deus, limumque inducere monstrat; Hic paret monitis; & linit ora luto.

In English thus;

Of Hornets thousands on his head full bare, And on his face their poyson'd spears stick fast, Then headlong down he fell, and Asses foot him smote, Whiles he for help his voyce to fellows cast. The Satyres flock came run apace, and did deride Their sires swollen mouth, whiles Asse had made him lame. The God himself did laugh, yet shewed an earth to hide The wound which he received; and so did heal the same.

If any one be desirous of moe medicines against the perillous and transpiercing stinging of these horn-mad Hornets, he shall finde store of them digested together in the History of Wasps: for their remedies are common, belonging as well to the one as to the other, there being no other dif∣ference but this, that here they must be given in a greater measure or quantity, and their use ought longer to be continued. And let this suffice to have spoken thus much of such Insects or Cut-wa∣sted vermine as are winged, and live in companies and routs together. Now will I make choice to describe such as are winged and live solitarily, lest I should seem to lose my self in this troublesome and vast Ocean of Physical contemplation.

of CANTHARIDES or Spanish Flies.

THis kinde of Cut-wast is called of the Grecians, Kantharis, and among the Latines it changeth not his name. Of the Frenchmen, Cantaride. Of the Italians, Cantarella. Of the Spaniards, Cubillo. Of the Germans, Grune Kefer, Goldkaefer. Amongst the Belgics or Netherlanders, it is termed Spaensche Ʋlieghe; and of us English men, Cantharides, and Spanish Flies. I have seen two sorts of Cantharides, the one great, and the other small. Of the greater sort some are thick, and long bo∣dyed, which are found among wheat, and these are thick, grosse, and unwieldy, like unto Beetles, they are also of sundry colours, and changeable hew, with golden streeks or lines crossing their wings, and these are best to be used in Physick. They of the other lesser kinde, are lean and thin

scrags and starvelings, broad, hairy, heavy, and sluggish, and for physical uses little worth.

The greater sort also are not always of a glistering green colour, but otherwhiles you shall have them somewhat reddish or murrey coloured, but yet all of them of a glittering brightnesse, and mar∣vellous shining glosse, piercing the eyes with singular delight. The lesser sort are not so common as the greater, somewhat differing from them in shape and proportion of body, but in vertue, quality, and manner of breeding, there is no disagreement at all to be found.

Those of the lesser sort have their bodies and heads somewhat long and hooked, their eyes very black, and hanging out, their wings growing out from the midst of their Loyns, being marked with two silver speeks or pricks, and some few white spots.

They are commonly found in the Summer Season, in the herb that is called Gicutaria, or wilde Hemlock. Their feet and legs are very small and long, finely decked and garnished, as it were with a Vermillion red, or beautiful purple. There is also another sort of these answerable to the former, in colour of their bodies in every respect, saving that their eyes are green: their head very little; and the hinder part of their shoulders round and crooked.

The third sort have their head and shoulders all one, being so closely and confusedly joyned to∣gether, as if they were but one thing and could not by any means be separated, unlesse in imaginati∣on, and these are of a rusty colour, and their small pink eyes as black as Jet, their wings as well as their heads are nothing differing in colour, saving that their wings do glister with some strakes of the co∣lour of gold, their feet also are short, and as black as Pitch.

The fourth is very like to the third sort, but it is rather of a greenish, then of a rusty Iron colour, but in all other respects there is no difference to be seen, saving in their magnitude, for this last described is the least of them all. But these kindes of Cantharides as well the greater as the lesser, do first proceed not from any beasts, as some have thought, but they rather take their Original from some rotten, stinking, and corrupt moisture and siccity, Titectai gar en tois toon puroon leiois kai tais ageirais, kai tous Sukais proseti to toon Kantharidoon phulon, the meaning where∣of is, that the whole stock and kindred of Cantharides do bring forth or lay their young in the vile, base, and imperfect force of heat or warmth: and further in moist Figs, as Aelianus in his ninth Book and thirty nine Chapter, word for word hath exscribed out of Aristotle.

They do also breed from a certain little Worm which is found in the sponge of the Dog-bryer (called of the Physitians Bedeguar) and from Caterpillers of the Fig-tree, Popler, Pear-tree, Ash, Olive-trees and Roses: for in all these there be found certain Worms, the very Founders and Pa∣rents of Cantharides, but yet in the white Rose these Worms are of much lesser force, power, and sufficiency, then in the former.

Cantharides do couple together and generate, but yet not any living creature of their own kinde, but only a little small Worm. They feed upon all manner of pulse and Corn, but especially Wheat, and then they are best for medicinal uses. The smell like unto Tar, and in their taste they much re∣semble the Cedar-tree, as Nicander reporteth. Their vertue and quality is to burn the body, to parch and to bring a hard scale or crustinesse upon any part they shall be applyed to, or as Dioscorides saith, to gnaw or eat into, to raise blisters, exulcerate and raise an inflammation, for which respect, they mix them with such medicaments as are appointed to heal Leprosies, any dangerous Tetters and Ring-worms, or those that be Cancrous.

They are applyed to hard, Scurvy, or Mangy nails, being first tempered with some fit plaisters or Cerotes tending to the same purpose, taking them so clean away, that they fall off by the roots. Some use also to temper them with such convenient medicines as are warranted to take away Warts, Corns, or any hard knobs or pieces of flesh growing in the hands or feet. Some again use to pulve∣rise Cantharides, and then mixing them with Tar, do make an Unguent to cure the falling away of the hair, or the shedding of it, either in the head or beard, but herein there must be good advice required, lest at any time by their caustick faculty they exulcerate too deep into the flesh.

Cantharides mingled with Lime, serve in stead of a Pen-knife to eradicate and take away those little hard and red swellings rising chiefly in the crown of the head, armpits, or privy parts, cal∣led of some Physitians Pani: and some there be again that will adventure a little of them in pow∣der, to give with such Medicines whose property is to provoke Urine: But yet there is hard hold and tough reasoning on both sides, whether they ought to be given inwardly with Diuretikes or no, con∣sidering that being so drunk, they are accounted amongst strong poysons, tormenting the bladder without any ceasing: othersome again hold the contrary, assuring us upon their own experience, that not exceeding their due quantity, they may be taken with other Correctories, to serve as a Retricle to transport them to the place affected, so that you see either side hath his strength and reasons.

Justa pari premitur veluti cum pondere libra, Prona nec hac plus parte sedet, nec surgit ab isla.

That is to say;

As when an even scale with equal weight is prized, Nor falls it down this way, or is it that way raised.

But being mingled and wrought up with the juyce of Ʋna Taminea, (which is a kinde of Berry, growing on the herb called Ampelos angria, a kinde of Briony) Sheeps or Goats sewet, there is no doubt but that they do great good. Some of my Masters (s••ith Galen, the Prince of all Physitians next to Hippocrates) did use to put Cantharides amongst such medicines as they prepared to move urine, taking only their wings with the feet, but I (saith he) am wont to take Cantharides wholly, as well as some parts of them, and so I judge them the more safe to be used and pre∣pared this way, especially I misse not to make choyce of such are found among Corn, and have as it were a yellow circle or enclosure crossing overthwart their wings, lib. 3. lib. & 11. de Sim∣plie. facult.

Being applyed rightly, they do also provoke the monthly terms, and that very eff〈…〉〈…〉ually, and put into Antidotes, they are thought of many to help Hydropical persons, as not only Hippecrates and Dioscorides, but also Galen, Avicenna, Rhazes, Pliny, and other Physitians of best note and worth have witnessed: I cannot here sufficiently enough commend their assured, tryed, and approved use, being commixed with Leaven, Salt, and Gum Ammoniacum, for the diversion of Rhumes or Ca∣tarrhs, the taking away of all Goutish pains, out of the hanch or hip (called the Sciatica of the popular sort) whilest they draw forth and consume from the center of the body, (being there throughly and deeply impacted) to the surface the matter or offending humours causing these griefs above said.

They are also good against the venom of a Salamandra, as Pliny in his 29. Book, and 24. Chapter assureth us. They are also highly esteemed of some, being duly prepared and orderly mixed with certain other medicines, to take away and correct the remisse negligence, falling-faintnesse, and heartlesse casting down of the Virile part, yea they do (as they say) very much provoke to vene∣rous incitements.

But here I would counsel each one not to be knack-hardy bold, in medling with them, for these or the like intentions: for as they bring both health and help, being duly commixed, and orderly tempered, not exceeding their dose and first quantity; so again, if you fail in their due and skilful application or propination, they induce and drive men into most intolerable grievous symptomes and accidents, and otherwhiles to death it self. John Langius setteth down a true and very pleasant story, which in this place, because it maketh greatly for our matter in hand, I will not refuse briefly to describe it.

There was (saith he) at Bonony in Italy, a certain rich and Noble young man of France, (which Gal∣lus, to use his own words, was Gallo quovis gallinaceo salacior) who falling extreamly in love with a cer∣tain Maid in the same City, prevailed so far at length through his earnest importunities and incessant sollicitations, that at length they appointed and agreed upon the time and place of their meeting, to keep their Revels for one night. So this lusty Gallant being thus insnared in the inextricable labyrinth of her beauteous Phisnomy, fearing deadly, lest his heart should turn into Liver, or that he might faint and lose his courage before he should attain to his journeys end; in this his doubtful coap∣ing, and dangerous skirmishing conflict, like a wise man fearing the worst, casting all dangers afore-hand what might ensue would needs know of a fellow-souldier, and Countreyman of his, who had as one may guesse born a standard in the Camp of Venus, what were best to be done, to move him to a more vigorous courage, and to keep his credit for that time, lest either he should turn Craven like an overtyred Jade, or else be utterly non-suited, which was worst of all: who pre∣sently wished him to take some Cantharides in his Broath, which the other at all adventures forth-with did.

But it was not long before this jolly Yonker felt an itching about his lower parts, then being fro∣like above measure, supposed it to be the operation of his medicine that caused this Colt-evil, he without any more ado hyed him to his Love, minding there indeed to draw the matter to a set battel, and to end all controversies by dint of sword.

Tunc animis opus, Acnea, tunc pectore firmo.

In English thus;

Of courage then indeed, Then of stout breast is need.

But yet for all this, in the still of the night, when every one besides were at rest, my restlesse Frank felt his whole body to be pockily torn, and miserably rent with sundry cruel prickings and stingings, feeling moreover a strange tast in his mouth, like the juyce or liquor that issueth from the Cedar tree, stamping and staring, raging and faring like a furious, mad, frantike Bedlam, being almost besides himself through the extremity of his pain, virtiginy and giddinesse of his brain, with inclination to fainting or swounding: so being troubled, tost, and perplexed, all sad, melancholike and male-content, destitute of counsel and comfort, like a silly Miser, and an impotent Suiter, and not like a couragious hot-spur, he let his action fall, turning h•••• back like a Novice and fresh-water Souldier, full sore against his will you may be sure, but there was no remedy, and so with as much speed as he could, bidding his Love adiew, he trudged home to his own lodging; whither being come, and finding no relief, but rather an encrease of his torments, with a continual burning of his Urine and Strangury, he lamentably besought, and with weeping and tears most humbly craved and cryed out for help, requiring

the favour and furtherance, both of my self and of another Physitian for the cure: so I being ad∣mitted to visit this poor patient, I first gave him some Oyl to drink, thereby to provoke vomiting: then was there prepared a Glyster, made of the herbs Mercurialis, Mallows, and the root of Altheae decocted, wherein was dissolved Cassia, with Oyl of Violets and Lillies. After the administring of this, I commanded him to take a good draught of Cows or Goats milk once in every hours space, and if Milk could not be had, then I willed him to take an Almond Milk made Ex nucleis pineae, seeds of Mellons, Gourds, and Poppy bruised with the distilled Water of Mallows, and Alkea∣kengy, and this would I have given to him in good quantity in stead of the Milk if it were wanting.

But after that my fiery Frenchman had recovered his former health with these and the like reme∣dies, and that the unadvised Author of this rash counsel had very humbly intreated pardon at our hands for this his great fault, he protested solemnly with a great oath, that he would never hereafter prescribe any Physick to any man living. Thus far Johannes Langius in his first Book Epistola. Medi∣cinal. forty eight.

There is also very profitable use to be made of Cantharides, for if you beat them to powder, and convey a little of it into Apples, Pears, Plums, Figs, Peaches, or Quinces; especially those that be fairest and ripest, and those that hang the lowest, finely closing it up again with the pill, which if any Theeves or Robbers of Orchards shall tast of, they fall within a while after into an intolerable burning in their Urine and Strangury, making it only in dropping wise, whereby their theft is soon found out, and they well rewarded with sowre Sawce for their sweet meat: And this is an excellent night-spell, and therefore I was loath to pretermit it, but to make you acquainted withall.

There is also another excellent medicinal use of Cantharides, if they be duly, and according to true art administred, and with great warinesse for that passionate grievance, which at this time though some foolish Physitians never heard tell of any such, I will call Pessuli infirmitas, yet I may not set it down in English, because I would have but a few acquainted with secrets. Habeo enim ego singulare quoddam contra penis Languorem remedium, quo cum promiscuè uterer, utramque multis nobilibus (qui veneris vulgo studiosiores videntur) animos & vires adauxit absque noxa. Ʋni tamen inter caeteros sic ob∣suit, ut à venere (cui••n mium litârat) sanguinem continuò mingeret, & lipothymia frequenti làboret. Sanè nisi lactis copia in procinctu suisset; emninò interiisset venireus pullus, & meritas salacitatis cupidinisq poenas luisset.

And let this suffice to have spoken of their medicinal vertues and qualities; Now will I proceed to tell you of their ill name, naughty, venomous, and pernicious properties. They are reckoned and scored up in the number of most deadly and hurtful poysons, not only because they cause ero∣sion and inflamation, but more in regard of their putrefactive quality and making rotten, where∣in they exceed. Their juyce being taken into the stomach, and so piercing into the veins, or laid upon the skin outwardly so long till it hath entred the veins, is a most strong poyson, where-upon Ovid when he wished ill unto, or cursed his enemy, writ this; Cantharidum succos dante parente bibas. lib. Trist. Cicero ad Parum, in his ninth Book of his familiar Epistles hath these words, Catus accusante L. Crasso, Cantharidas sumpsisse dicitur, as if he purposed by that way to make an end of himself by death. Galen in his third Book De Simplic. medicam. facult. wri∣teth thus:

If they be taken inwardly into the body, though but in small quantity, and mixed with other convenient correctories, they do mightily provoke urine, and sometimes corrode and fret the bladder, so that it is as clear as the noon-day, that what things soever do overthrow nature, by rea∣son of their extreme frigidity, if they be taken but in a very small quantity, yet will nourish the body: so on the other side, whatsoever is contrary, repugneth or goeth against humane nature, by means of corrupting or any putrefactive quality like unto Cantharides, can never do so. Bartholo∣meus Montegnana, a learned Physitian, assureth us, that he once knew one Francis Bracca a Citizen of Padua in Italy, who having but outwardly applyed Cantharides to his knee, yet their poyson spread∣ing to other inwards parts, he voided five pintes of bloud by way of urine: and this may any man see, if he will take the pains to read over Montegnana Consil. 182. Cap. 10.

The same accident hath also befaln them, who to be remedied of rough, hard, mangy, or leprie∣like nails, have adventured to apply them to their great toe. So that Cantharides must not rashly be applyed and used, as common deceivers, blinde Empericks, and cousening Land-lopers would make plain Countrey people believe. Pliny relateth a story of one Cossinus a Roman Knight, who was deerly beloved of Nero the Emperor, who having a very dangerous Tetter (a disease in times past pecu∣liar to the people of Egypt) a Physitian of that Countrey in stead of curing, did kill him by giving him Cantharides to drink.

But I should rather think that Cossinus dyed by the outward application of Cantharides, because by their burning and caustick quality, they clean eat and consume away filthy Tetters or Ring-worms, Manginesse, Scurvinesse, Lepries, and all hard Callous Warts, Corns, or pieces of flesh that grow in the hands or feet; for I can see no reason why any would be so wilfully blinde, as to give them in∣wardly for the curation of any Tetters or such like griefs: or at leastwise I must think that the right use of Cantharides was unknown to the ancient Physitians of the old world, as by Galen it may ap∣pear in his 11. Book De Simplic. Med. fac. and in his fourth Book De victu Acut.

The same Pliny (in his twenty nine Book and fortieth Chapter) witnesseth, that Cantharides were reproachfully laid to Cato Ʋticensis charge, and that he was sorely blamed for offering to make a price of poysons, and to sell them openly, as in Port-sail to any that would give most, so that their price rose to threescore sesterties. Being drunk in too large a quantity, or else applied outward∣ly to any part, either too long or too deep, they produce these or the like symptomes, accidents, and effects.

The party to whom they are any way given, feeleth a pricking pain and torment in his bowels and inward parts, extending from the mouth down to the lower parts about the Bladder, Reins, and the places about the waste and short ribs: they do also ulcerate the bladder very dangerously, infla∣ming the yard, and all other parts neer the same with a vehement apostumation: after this, they pisse bloud, and little pieces of flesh.

Otherwhiles there will follow a great lask or Bloudy-flix, fainting and swounding, a numnesse or dulnesse of moving or feeling, debilitation, or feeblenesse of the minde, with alienation of the wit, as though they were bestraught; likewise lothing or abhorring of meat with a disposition to vo-miting, and often an ordinary desire to make water, and to exonerate nature, but all in vain. He that taketh them findeth in his mouth the tast or tallage of Pitch: and all these symptomes, passi∣ons, or effects, that they work, have I with much labour faithfully collected out of the sixth Book of Dioscorides, and the first Chapter. And out of Galen Lib. de Theriaca ad Pisonem Cap. 4. and Lib. 3. de Temperam. cap. 3. And out of ancient Rhazes (who practised Physick one hundred years, if truth be truly related) Tit. 8. chap. 17. If any one be either affected or infected with any accidents, by means of Cantharides, Dioscorides doth thus cure them, as you may readily finde in the Book and Chapter before cited.

First of all he causeth them to vomit often and much: and after that he prescribeth Glysters to be made for the scouring of the belly with Nitre, and to preserve the bladder inwardly, to take Milk and Psyllum: and then he would have the matter of Glysters to be somewhat different from those which were taken in the beginning: as namely to be made of Barley water, Marsh-mallows, the white of an Egge, the Musciling of Line-seeds, Water of Rice, the decoction of Fenugreek, Hy∣dromel, fat Broaths, Oyl of Almonds, the fat of a Goose, and the yelks of Egges. And inwardly to take at the mouth, he biddeth them to use Cows milk, Hydromel, the grains or fruit of the Pitch-tree, both the greater and the lesser sort, Wine sod to the half, Ducks fat, a decoction with some diuretical seeds (namely with the four greater cold seeds, which are Cucumbers, Gourds, Ci∣trals, and Melons) and likewise some decoction made of Figs, with syrup of Violets. Oyl of Quinces is highly commended of some as a proper and special Antidote in this case, and so is Oyl of Lillies, and Terra Samia.

Rhazes counsel is, after the taking of some Glysters made of any fat broaths, to make an injection into the yard with Oyl of Roses, and the sick person to sit in a warm Bath. Tit. 8. Chap. 17. The Writers and Authors of Physick and Philosophy cannot agree, in what part of the Cantharides their poyson chiefly lurketh: for some will have it to be principally in the head and feet, and others again will none of that: And yet they all agree upon this point, that in what part of the body soever their poyson is seated, that their wings are a soveraign remedy and preservative, and if they be wanting, that their poyson is deadly: so that although they be never so poysonous, yet have they their own remedy which in themselves they contain and carry about: Thus saith Pliny in his 11. Book and 35. chapter.

And peradventure for the same cause, Galen in his eleventh Book, which he intituled De Simplie. Medicament. facultatibus, adviseth us expresly and learnedly, that Cantharides should be taken whole as they are, and so to be used either for inward or outward uses. For why it is far better, even in the outward application of them, that they should more gently and slowly corrode, gnaw, or fret asun∣der, and that their burning vertue and quality should be a little corrected and weakened, then to perform their full effect to the great danger of the patient, and many times to his utter undoing and destruction. Therefore they are clean out of the way, who when they would use them for any inward cause, do cast away their wings and feet, whereas indeed they ought to take all of them, not * 1.152 rejecting any one part of them. For being given whole, they need not so much any correctives to bridle and lessen their powerful operation in regard of their wings and feet, the proper resisters and expellers of their own or other poyson.

The fafest course is to use all, and every part of them without exception, unlesse you would have them to corrode, fret, inflame, or burn any part. Lycus Neapolitanus is of opinion, that Purcelane is their proper counter-poyson, which vertue Pliny in his twentyeth Book, Chap. 13. ascribeth to the herb called wilde Basil: who also many ways commendeth Acetum Scyliticum, Oleum Oenanthium, Cows milk and brethes made of Goats flesh for these intentions, in his 23. Book, Chapter the second and fourth, and likewise in his 28. Book and tenth Chapter. And for our History of Cantharides, let this for this time suffice, which I much wonder that the fa∣mous learned Gesner hath in such deep silence passed over, never so much as mentioning them: whereof notwithstanding so many Authors, both of the Ancients and Neotericks, do so much ring.

Many moe authorities could I have alleadged concerning this my discourse of Cantharides, but that I suppose it a labour as endlesse in toyl, as needlesse in use; the one savouring of too much curiosity, the other of a frivolous affectation: so that I hope even amongst the whole College

of Physitians, wheresoever in England (if their ears be not too dainty) to finde some few grains of their good words, and such curteous construction, as that I may neither be charged with par∣tiality of concealing (where it is meet I should be mute) nor be suspected of unsufficiency, for not pursuing where I can finde no good footing.

Of CATERPILLERS, or PALMER-WORMS, called of some Cankers.

NOw I am come to speak of Caterpillers, sometimes the destroyers and wasters of Egypt: as well * 1.153 in regard of the great difference that is found in their several sorts, as for their great dignity and use, wherein some of them are most notable and excellent. Some think that Eruca, which is Eng∣lished a Caterpiller, hath his derivation ab erodendo, which is not altogether improbable: For they gnaw off and consume by eating, both leaves, boughs, and flowers: yea, and some fruits also, as I have often seen in Peaches.

Ovidius the famous Poet, stileth them by the name of Tineae agrestes:

Quaeque solent canis frondes intexere filis, Agrestes Tineae, res observata colonis, Feraci mutant cum papilione figuram.

In English thus;

And those wilde Mothes by husbandmen observed, Which fold themselves in hoary springing leaves, Gainst force of famine, and storm to be preserved, A shape from fruitful Butterflies receives.

The Grecians call a Caterpiller Kampe, by reason of his crooked winding or bending pace in wa∣ving sort, whereby in creeping they bow, wry, and lift up themselves. Of the Hebrews it is termed Gbazain, because it sheareth, pilleth, and devoureth the fruits of the earth, as Kimhi upon the first of Joel writeth. The Italians call it Rugaverme, and Brucho, for so Marcellus Virgilius upon Dioscorides saith expresly, that in his time all the people of Italy, named it Erucae, Bruchi. The Spaniards term it Oruga. The Frenchmen, Chenille, and Chattepeleuse. Of the English they are commonly called Caterpillers, of what kinde soever they be of. But the English Northern men, call the hairy Caterpillers, Oubuts, and the Southern men usually term them Palmer-worms. Of the Polonians it is called by the name of Ru∣phansenka. In the German tongue Ein Raup. In the Belgian, Ruipe. Of the Illyrians, Gasienica. And Sil∣vaticus will have it called Certris, and Cedebroa.

If I should go about to describe and set down all the differences and varieties of Caterpillers, I * 1.154 might perhaps undertake an endlesse and tedious labour. I think it therefore fittest to bend my slen∣der skil, and to imploy my best forces, in speaking of such as are more notable and common with us in this Countrey: For some of them in touching are rough, hard, and stiffe; and othersome again, are soft, smooth, and very tender. Some are horned either in the head or in the tail; and again, others have no horns at all. Some have many feet, and some fewer, & none at all have above sixteen feet. Most of them have a bending swift pace, and like unto waves, and others again keep on their way very plainly, soft∣ly, by little and little, and without any great hast. Some change their skins yearly, others again there be that neither change nor cast their old dry skins, but keep them still. Some of them ceasing alto∣gether from any motion, and giving over to eat any thing at all, are transformed very strangely into a kinde of vermin or worms, who being covered with a hard crust or shell, lie as it were dead all the Winter; and from these come in the beginning of hot weather, our usual Butter-flies.

Many of these Caterpillers are bred of the egs of Butter-flies; and some again do breed in the leaves of trees, of their own proper seed, being left there in the time of Autumn, included in a cer∣tain web, or else by means of the dew or air, therein shut and putrefied, as commonly the little hairy Cankers or Caterpillers which are so full of feet, do breed. Besides, some of them do feed on leaves, some on flowers, and there are some which devour fruits.

All smooth Caterpillers which are not hairy, are of a yellow or green colour: some again are found of a reddish colour, or brownish, or else they be of sundry hews. But of all others, the most excellent is the green coloured Caterpiller, which is found upon that great bushy plant, usually tearmed Privet, or Primprint, which hath a circle enclosing round both his eyes and all his feet, ha∣ving also a crooked horn in his tail: these Caterpillers are blackish-red, with spots or streaks going overthwart their sides, being half white, and half purpelish, the little pricks in these spots are in∣clining to red: The rest of their body is altogether green.

There is another Caterpiller feeding altogether upon Elder-trees, not much differing from the former, saving that this is altogether of a green colour, and wanting those overthwarting cross white marks or spots, and the other small white pricks which we described in the former.

There is also a third sort of green Caterpillers, which when Autumn or the fall of leaf draweth on, are turned into a certain sheath or case, being of a very hard and horny substance, of colour very brown, and this feedeth altogether upon Pot-herbs, especially those that be soft, as Lettice: where-upon it may not unfitly be termed, Eruca Lactucaria.

Lastly, there is to be seen another sort, of a green colour, which is the least of them all, and this kinde liveth and feedeth upon trees, (especially in the Oke) there drawing out their web, by means of which being stirred and shaken, they easily fall down upon the heads of travellers and passen∣gers by the way side, cleaving to their hats and garments. And this kinde of Caterpiller is too well known and found in the Summer time, and when cold weather approacheth, they fold them∣selves into a rude, plain, and nothing curious web. And thus being included in a greenish scabbard or case tending to red, they all die in Winter, and all these have ten feet, as all they have that go ••••nding themselves upwards. But to leave the green, and come to them that are yellow, there is to be found a certain Caterpiller called Vinula, being as the word soundeth, a very elegant and fine insect to look upon, and pasting beautiful: and this kinde have I often found amongst Willows, full savourly feeding upon their leaves. His lips and mouth are somewhat yellow, his eyes black as a cole, his fore-head purple coloured, the feet and hinder-part of the body, of a green grassie hue, his tail two-forked, and somewhat black. The whole body is as it were stained and dyed with thick Red-wine, which runneth alongst the neck and shoulder-blades, as it were in form of a Burgonian crosse, or of the letter X, made crosse-wise down unto the tail with a white line, addeth no small grace to the other parts.

There is yet another Caterpiller of yellow-blackish colour, called Porcellus, we may in Eng∣lish call it Pigs-snout, in respect of the fashion of the head, especially the greater sort of these, for the lesser have round white specks upon their sides, and these live and are altogether to be found amongst the leaves of the Marsh Trifoly, which they consume and devour with an incredible cele∣rity. In the wilde Night-shade, (which the Italians call Belladena) there is found a smooth Caterpil∣ler of a yellow-greenish colour, having a horn in his fore-head the length of a finger, which Hierom Cardan, the learned Physitian, reporteth that he had often seen.

The hairy Caterpillers are most mischievous and dangerous amongst them all, and these are either * 1.155 thick or thin haired, and the most venomous is that which is called Pityocampe, whose biting is poyson: and this is ever found in the Pine-apple-tree, being as thick as three little fingers, and three fingers long being laid a crosse. They consist of eleven slits or cuts betwixt the head and the tail, and they have sixteen feet, according as all other hairy Palmer-worms have. That is to say, neer the head on both sides, there, in the midst of their body on both sides, four, and at the end of the tail on both sides, one. Their former feet are crooked and small, with which they feel, try and assay the way whether it be passable or no, their other feet are broader, with many jags and notches like a saw, to take the faster hold, and stay with surer footing upon smooth and stippery leaves. Their head is much like a Pismires, and the rest of their bodies like other common Caterpillers. They are rough, and full of bristly standing up hairs on all sides, and those in their sides are white, but those on their backs do shine, being very bright and glistering, the midst whereof is garnished with many spots, as though it were full of eyes.

Their skin is black which is soon seen, their hairs being cut or taken clean away. All their hairs are but small and yet they sting more vehemently then any nettle, whereby is caused intolerable pain, burning itching, a Fever, and much disquietnesse: when as their poyson is suddenly in a moment sent and conveyed without any manifest appearance, or sense of any wound to be judged by the eye, un∣to those parts that are next the entrails, as the heart, liver, and the rest. They weave their webs after a fine and exquisite manner, as Spiders do, drawing out in length, framing and trimming in good order, their hairy small threads. And under these when ••ight draweth on, they lie as in their own proper tent and pavillion, aswell to avoid cold, as the 〈…〉〈…〉mmodities of furious blasts and storms: for the matter and substance of this their tent is so handsomely wrought, so firm, stiffe, clammy and sure, that they neither care for furious windes, nor yet any rain or storm will ever sole through. Besides, the largenesse of this house is such, and of so great receit, as it will easily re∣ceive and lodge many thousands of Caterpillers. They make their nests or buildings in the highest branches of the Pitch and Pine-trees, where they live not solitarily (as other Palmer-worms do) but in flocks or companies together. Which way soever they take their journey, they are still spin∣ning and drawing out their threads for their web, and early in the morning (if it be likely to prove fair) the younger sort by heaps attend the elder, and having first bared and robbed the trees of all their boughs and leaves, (for they make clean riddance of all wheresoever they come) they after∣wards dexterously bend themselves to their weaving craft. They are the only plague and destruction of Pitch and Pine-trees, for unto any other roziny or gummy trees they never do harm.

There is great plenty of them to be found in the Mountain of Athos, situate betwixt Macedonia and Thrace, in the Woods of Trident, and in divers Valleys beyond the Alpes, in which places there is store of these fore-named trees, (as Matthiolus saith.) They are doubtlesse most poysonous and venomous vermine, whether they be crushed outwardly with the hands, or taken inwardly into the body: yea they are so known, manifest, and so never failing a poyson, and so esteemed of in times past, as that Ʋlpian the famous Lawyer, interpreting the Law Cornelia de Sicariis, or privy murther∣ers, that he in that place, calleth and esteemeth the giver of any Pityocampie in drink or otherwise to any one, to be doomed a murtherer, and their punishment to be equallized. Sect. Alium ff. ad Leg. Corn. de sic.

As soon as this kinde of Caterpiller is received into the body, there followeth immediately a great pain, extremely tormenting the mouth and palate, the tongue, belly, and stomach are grievously inflamed by their corroding, and gnawing poysonous quality, besides the intolerable pain the re∣ceiver

feeleth, although at first the party seemeth to feel a certain pleasant itching, but it is not long before he perceiveth a great burning within, loathing and detesting of meat, and a continual desire to vomit and go to the stool, which neverthelesse he cannot do. At length, unlesse speedy succour be given, they so miserably burn and parch the body, that they bring a hard crustinesse, skurffe or scald upon the stomach, as though the sides thereof had been plastered with some hard shards, or other like things, after the manner of Arsenick, as Dioscorides, Aetius, Pliny, and Celsus do assure us. In like manner Galen in his eleventh Book Simp. cap. 50. and Avicen 505. cap. 25. have testified the same.

And for this cause Aetius and Aegineta do say, that it is nothing wholesome for any to sit down ••o meat, to spread the Table, or make any long tariance under any Pine tree, lest peradventure through the savour or smell of the meats, the reek or vapour of their broaths, or noise of men, the Pityo∣campies being disturbed from their homes and usual resting places, might fall down either into their meats beneath, or at least-wise cast down, or let fall any of their seed, as poysonous as themselves. They that receive hurt by them, must have recourse to those preservatives and medicines, as were prescribed to those that were poysoned by Cantharides, for by them they are to be cured, and by no other means. Yet for all that, Oyl of Quinces is properly commended to vomit withall in this case, which must be taken twice or thrice, even by the prescript of Dioscorides and Aetius. They are generated, or to speak more aptly, they are regenerated (after the manner of Vine-fretters, which are a kinde of Caterpillers, or little hairy Worms with many feet, that eat Vines when they begin to shoot) of that Autumnal seed of theirs, left and reserved in certain small bags or bladders within their webs.

There is another sort of these Caterpillers, who have no certain place of abode, nor yet cannot tell where to finde their food, but like unto superstitious Pilgrims, do wander and stray hither and thither, and (like Mice) consume and eat up that which is none of their own: and these have pur∣chased a very apt name amongst us Englishmen, to be called Palmer-worms, by reason of their wandering and roguish life, (for they never stay in one place, but are ever wandering) although by reason of their roughnesse and ruggednesse, some call them Bear-worms. They can by no means en∣dure to be dieted, and to feed upon some certain herbs and flowers, but boldly and disorderly creep over all, and tast of all plants and trees indifferently, and live as they list.

There are sundry other sorts of these Cankers or Caterpillers to be found, in the herbs called Cranesbil, Ragwort, Petie-mullen, Hops, Coleworts, Hasels, Marigolds, Fennil, Lycorice, Basil, Alder, Nightshade, Water-betony, Garden-spurge, and other sorts of that herb; in Elm-trees, Pear-trees, Nettles, and Gilliflowers. Yea there is not any plant to be found, which hath not his proper and peculiar enemy and destroyer: all which because they are so commonly known of all, though perhaps not of all observed, I will (lest I should seem to be infinite) passe over with silence. But yet I will adde a word or two of a strange and stinking Caterpiller, which it was never my hap as yet to see, described by Conradus Gesner, in these words following: This stinking Caterpiller (saith he) is very like to those that are horned, but yet it wanteth horns, differing from them all in colour. I first espyed it creeping upon a wall toward the end of August, Anno 1550. there cometh from it a lothsome and an abominable savour and smell, so that you would verily believe it to be very veno∣mous. It went forwards very frowningly, and with a quick, angry, and despightful countenance, as it were in bending wise, the head always stretched up a loft with the two former feet: I judge her to be blinde. She was the length and breadth of a mans finger, with a few scattering and rugged hairs, somewhat bristly and hard both on her back and sides, the back was very black, the colour of her belly and sides was somewhat red, enclining to yellow, and the whole body was distinguished, divi∣ded, and easily discerned with fourteen joynts or knots, and every joynt had a certain furrow like a kinde of wrinckle running all along the back. Her head was black and somewhat hard: her mouth crookedly bending like hooks, having teeth notched like a saw, and with these teeth as with pincers or nippers, whatsoever she laid hold on, she (as famished) did bite. She went on sixteen feet, as for the most part all the sorts of Palmer-worms do. Without doubt, she must be concluded to be ex∣ceeding venomous.

The learned man Vergerus, took it to be a Pityocampe, and others thought it a Scolopendra: but that could not be, by reason of the number of her feet. I could hardly with much ado endure her tile smell, till I had drawn out her description. She so infected two Hot-houses with her abominable savour and stink, that my self and they that were with me, could not endure in the place. Thus far Gesner, as I have to shew out of certain scroles of paper of his, never as yet imprinted.

Now will I proceed to discourse of the original, generation, aliment, and metamorphosis of Ca∣terpillers.

Chare liber, nostrûm testis benefide laborum, Ne tua purpureo suffuderis ora rubore Agrestes abacis tineas si expressero nostris, Vermiculos{que} levem qui in thecam vellera mutant. Hi siquidem artificis prudenti pollice Divi Finguntur, tenui qui non tenuatur opella Et qui vermiculis, dextrae miranda potentis Signa suae prodit, potius quam corpore vasti Molifero Barrhi, tumido vel robore Ceti Squamantis{que} aliis; qui lata per aequora tentant Fulmineas sine mente minas: & nostra profundó Lintea qua mergant, largo mare gutture ructant.

Which may be Englished thus;

Deer Book, a witnesse of my labour true, Be not ashamed to write of little worms, Nor Caterpillers, which from base things ensue, And into easie cases again returns: For these are fram'd by hand of God most wise, Never abased in any work so small: For out of Worms his wonders do arise, As well as from great Beasts so tall, Tower bearing Elephant, huge Whale, And other monsters swimming in the Seas, Ireful beasts, in hills and deepest dale, Death threatning to all that them displease.

For so I think it best to begin with the ••erses of a good Poet, who indeed did see and admire the inscrutable wisdom and divine Providence of the Almighty, in the generation and breeding of Ca∣terpillers. Which whilest divers. Authors laboured to expresse and set down diversly, I know not what clowds of errors they have thrust us into; for swarving themselves besides the way, although they pretend a matchlesse understanding in these mysteries of Philosophy, they have caused others to tread awry as much as themselves, and to be blinded with the mascarados of absurdities. And first, if we will begin to rifle in the monument of former times, I will here produce Aristotles opini∣on in his fifth Book, Histor. cap. 19. who there expresly saith, that they take their beginning from the green leaves of herbs, and namely of Radish and Coleworts, by means of their small seed of ge∣neration, being like unto Millet-seed, which is there left about the end of Autumn, from which female Worms proceed: and of these little Worms in the space of three days a Caterpiller is formed, about the Spring time, or toward the later end thereof, which growing to their due quantity, and well fed withall, they cease at length from any further motion and when Autumn beginneth, they change both form and life.

Pliny is of this minde, that Caterpillers fetch all their pedegree, race, parentage and birth, from a dew thickned and incrassated by the heat of the Sun, and so still left behinde in leaves: and Arnol∣dus de Villa nova is of the same judgement. Othersome derive them wholly from Butter-flies, and will have them to proceed of no other beginning, which as soon as they are crept out of their hard shells or scabbards, wherein they had lain as it were dead all the Winter, assoon as Summer and warm weather draweth on, they cast certain eggs either under or above the leaves of certain herbs, which egges according to the quantity of their bodies, are either greater or lesser, and some of these shells wherein they are included, are of a sky colour; others yellow, white, black, green, or red: and so being at length about fourteen days quickned and nourished with the lively and kindely heat of the Sun, their shell-house being broken, first cometh forth small Caterpillers, like unto little Worms, saving that they are diversly coloured, who at their first appearance, being as it should seem very hungry, do altogether bend themselves to devour and eat up both leaves and flowers, especially of those trees and plants whereon they were whilest they were in egges.

But I am of opinion, that not only this, but by divers other ways and means they may proceed and increase, for although the doctrine of Aristotle in this point seemeth to be unsavoury, and no∣thing relishing divers tastes, because he affirmeth, that that little Worm which is found upon Cole∣worts, doth turn into a Caterpiller: yet for all that, it is not so much without smack of salt, or so abhorrent to reason as they would make some believe. For Nature, as she is able, and doth produce and bring forth a living creature from an Egge, so likewise from a Worm she breedeth a more per∣fect living creature, by many degrees; and that not by way of corruption, but by way and means of her excellent perfection. For although a Worm afterwards be not that thing which before it was, (so far as is apparent to outward sense) yet for any thing we can gather or perceive, it is that which it was, and this That, is more by a great deal now, then before it was. For a Worm dyeth not, that a Caterpiller may thereby spring, but to the old body, Nature addeth a greater magnitude: as for example, feet, colours, wings: so that whilest life remianeth, it acquireth other parts and other offices.

There be some also that deride the opinion of Pliny, because he contendeth that Caterpillers have their beginning and production from dew. But it may not be denyed in my conceit, that some im∣perfect small creatures are bred and take life from dew, and not without great reason. For the Sun by his kindely heat and warming quality, worketh and acteth, being as it were the form, and the moisture or humor is Passive, as the matter or the subject, for the heat of the Sun is different from that of the fire: for it either quickneth and inspireth with life, or at least-wise conserveth and maintaineth our life, by means of likenesse, proportion, or symmetry, wherein our lives and spirits respect each other. Besides, there is nothing more nourishing then Dew, for with it only some cer∣tain small creatures are fed, and do thereby live: which thing the divine Poet very well observed, when he uttered these words;

Quantum nos nocte reponit.

So that in respect that it is humour, it is matter, in respect it is thin, it pierceth and easily entreth in, and in respect it is attracted and throughly concocted by the Sun, it is the apter made to gene∣ration. For the preparation of the form, carryeth with it the matter or stuffe, as his mate and companion: So these two meeting together, there consequently followeth the quickning or taking life of some one creature. And not only are some Caterpillers the off-spring and breed of dew, as common experience can witnesse, but even the greatest part of Caterpillers do fetch their stock and

pedegree from Butter-flies, unlesse it be those that live upon Coleworts and Cabbages, and those that are called Vine-fretters, with some few other. For those that live and breed in Vines, (called of the Grecians, Ipes,) do proceed from dew, or some dewy and moist humor, which is included in their webs, and there grown to putrefaction. For then do they swarm so exceedingly in some Countries, as I dare neither affirm, nor otherwise imagine, but that they must needs have such a mighty increase from putrefaction. And this for the most part happeneth when the Eastern winde bloweth, and that the warmth of the air furthereth and hasteneth forwards any corruption.

All the whole pack of them are great destroyers and devourers of herbs and trees: whereupon Philippis the Parasite, as Athenaeus saith in Pythagorista, braggeth of himself in this wise, Apòlausae thumon lachanonte kampe. Vescens thymo olere{que} eruca sum. I am (saith he) a Caterpiller that eateth both Thyme and Pot-herbs. And to this sense speaketh Martial, Erucam malè pascit hortus unam. A Garden hardly and slenderly can suffice to feed one Caterpiller. I think he meaneth, when the time of their wasting and devouring is gone and past, for they commonly leave but little behinde. For that being past, they go wandering hither and thither, up and down uncertainly, wasted and hunger-starved, and so at length pining away by little and little through famine, some seek them fit places within, other-some above the earth, where they transform themselves, either into a bare and empty bag or case, or hanging by a thread into an Autelia covered with a membrane.

If this happen in the midst of Summer, the hard rinde or shell wherein they are inclosed being broken, about the time of 24. days, there flieth out a Butter-fly: but if it come to passe in the midst, or toward the end of Autumn, the Aurelia continueth a whole Winter, neither is there any exclusion before the vernal heat. And yet notwithstanding, all Caterpillers are not converted into Auteliaes, but some of them being gathered and drawn together on a heap (as the Vine-fretters) do grow at length to putrefaction, from which sometimes there falleth as it were three blackish Egges, the true and proper mothers and breeders of Flies and Cantharides. When the Butter-flies do joyn together very late, or after the time it ought to be, they do lay or cast their Egges, which will continue vital, and that may live till the next Spring, (if a diligent care be had of them) as well as is often seen in Silk-worms, whose Egs the Spaniards sell, and that very usually by whole ounces and pounds. I have now according to my cunning, discoursed of the transmutations and vari∣able changes of Caterpillers; it followeth next that I write of the qualities and use of Cater∣pillers, together with those preservatives which experienced Physitians have warranted for true and infallible.

All Caterpillers have a burning quality, and such as will readily fetch off the skin, and flea it * 1.156 quickly, and raise blisters. If any one drink the Caterpiller that liveth in the Pitch trees, there will forthwith follow a great pain about his mouth and jaws, vehement inflamation of the tongue, strong griping and wringing of the Stomach, belly and intestines, with a sensible itching about the inward parts, the whole body is as it were burned and scalded with heat and hot vapours, and the stomach abhorreth all meat: all which are to be remedied with the same means, as those that have taken Cantharides. Yet properly, (as heretofore I have touched) Oyl of Quinces given to cause vomit∣ing, is the best and safest. And if we may credit Pliny, new Wine boyled to the third part; and Cows milk being drunk, are very effectual. There is not any one sort of Caterpillers, but they are malign, naught, and venomous, but yet they are least hurtful who are smooth and without hairs; and the most dangerous of all the rest, is that which heretofore I termed a Pityocampe, whose poyson for the most part is deadly.

The daughter of Caelius Secundus living at Basil in Germany, (as Gesner saith) when she had unwa∣rily and greedily eaten some Colewort-leaves, or Cabbage in a Garden, and with them some Ca∣terpillers, after a strong vomit that was given, her belly began to swell, which swelling, having continued these many years, could never as yet receive any cure. If you will have your Gardens and Trees untouched and preserved from their mischievous quality, you must first take clean away in the Winter time their webs, or any part thereof (though never so little) that you can finde clea∣ving to the bare boughs: for if you let them alone till the Spring, you shall sooner see them, then finde them removed, for in a short space of time they devour up all that is green both leaves and flowers. Some use to anoint their trees with the gall of a green Lizard, and some with a Bulls gall, which as some constantly report, they can by no means away withall.

The Countrey people choke them with the vapour of a little Brimstone, with straw being fired under the tree, and so to smoother them. Some there be that make a fumigation with Galbanum, Harts-horn, the shavings of Ivory, and Goats hoofs, and Ox-dung. Didymus in Georgicis saith, that if you bare the roots of your trees, and besmear or soyl them with Doves dung, they shall never be hurt by any Worms.

I should willingly have omitted, and not renewed with any fresh discovery Columellaes remedy against Caterpillers, (or rather the immodest deceit and deluding trick of Democritus,) unlesse expe∣rience, which is, Iterata ejusdem eventus observatio, a repeated observation of the same event, had ap∣proved the verity thereof, especially in the Countrey of Stiria. And Palladius in his first Book ch. 35. and Constantinus neer the end of his 11. and 12. Books, whose words be these;

At si nulla valet medicina repellere pestem, Da••daniae veniunt artes, nudataque plantas Foeina, quae justis tum demum operata juventae Legibus, obscoeno manat pudibunda eruore, Sed resoluta sinus, resoluto moesta capillo Ter circum areolas, & sepem ducitur horti:

Quae cum lustravit gradiens (mirabile visu) Non aliter decussa pluit quam ex arbore nimbus, Vel teretis mali, vel tectaecortice glandis, Volvitur ad terram distorto corpore campe.

Which may be Englished thus;

But when no medicine can that plague expell Then use they Arts, which once the Trojans sound, A woman which had Virgin-laws observed well, Her bare and naked bring they to the ground, Flowing with Natures shameful filthy bloud: Her bosome open, and her hair untrimmed falling Like one ore'prest with grief, forgetting good, Three times about the plots and hedges walking. Which done, a wonder tis for to be told. As rain drops from the trees, ripe Apples fall, Walnuts out of husks: so cast you may behold These Worms from trees, all torn, and cannot crall.

Theophrastus saith, that Caterpillers will touch no plants which are moistened or besprinckled with Wine. They will die if they take the fume, or be any way smoaked with the herb Psora. Aetius. Whereby it is apparent (saith Silvius) that the herb commonly termed Scabious is not the true Psora. Caterpillers that live and feed on Coleworts, if they be but touched with that kinde of Worm which is found in the Fullers Teasel, they die. Pliny. All to besprinkle a Colewort whilest it hath but only three leaves, with Nitre, or with saltish and brinish earth, and by means of the saltnesse, the Cater∣pillers will be quite driven away. Geopon. Palladius in this case preferreth the ashes of Fig-leaves. The Sea-onion called Squilla, being sown or hanged up in Gardens, hindereth the breeding of Caterpillers. Othersome in the most places of their Gardens, and round about them, sow and set Mints, the pulse called Orobos, which is somewhat like Vetches, and some Wormwood, or at least-wise hang them in bunches in divers places of the same, to expell this kinde of noysome creature.

Some very advisedly take dry leaves and stalks of Garlick, and with the same do smoke and per∣fume their whole Garden, so that by this way the smoke being conveyed into all places thereof, the Caterpillers will fall down dead, as Palladius hath written, in whose writings any man may read of plenty of such Antidotes and Alexipharmical medicines, as may serve to destroy Caterpillers.

Now will I speak of their use in Physick, and in the Common-wealth. The web of Caterpillers being taken inwardly, stayeth womens fluxes, as Matthiolus saith. Being likewise burnt and put into * 1.157 the nostrils, it stancheth bleeding at the nose. The Caterpillers that are found amongst the herbs called Spurges of all sorts, (by the judgement of Hippocrates) are notable for purulent and mattery Wombs, especially if they be first dryed in the Sun, with a double quantity of Earth-worms, and a little Aniseed finely powdered, and so all of them to be relented, and taken in some excellent White-wine. But in case they feel any heavinesse or aking in the belly after the taking of this me∣dicine, then it were good to drink a little Mulse thereupon. This saith Hippocrates in his Book De Superfoetat.

Dioscorides in his first Book and 90. chapter, giveth in drink those common Caterpillers that live in companies together, against the disease called the Squinsie. But unlesse by some hid and secret property, they do good in this grief being received inwardly, it were needful (in regard of their ma∣nifest venomous nature) that they were utterly rejected and contemned. Nicander useth them to provoke sleep, for thus he writeth;

Ei de suge tripsas oligo en hammati kampen Kepeien drosoeastan epi chloreida noto, &c.

Which Hieremias Martius hath thus translated;

Quod si rodentes olus & frendentia vermes (Lueva quibus virides depingunt terga colores) In medio sacra de Palladis arbore succo Triveris, hinc{que} tuum colleveris undi{que} corpus, Tuta dabis dulci securus membra quieti.

Which may be Englished thus;

With herb-eating, or green-leaf-gnawing Worms, Whose backs imprinted are with colours lively green, All bruised, mixed with juyce from Pallas tree that runs, Anointed body brought to sound sleep is often seen.

There are to be seen in divers thorny, prickly, sharp and rough herbs, (as for example in Nettle) sundry hairy or lanuginous Caterpillers, which being tyed or hanged about some part of the body, do by and by (as the report goeth) heal those Infants which have any stopping of the meats passage when they cannot swallow.

A Caterpiller breeding in Pot-herbs, being first bruised and then anointed upon any venomous bitings of Serpents, is of great efficacy: and if you rub a naughty or a rotten tooth with the Cole∣wort-caterpillers, and that often, within a few days following, the tooth will fall out of his own accord. Avicenna. Caterpillers mixt with Oyl, do drive away Serpents. Dioscorides. If a man anoint his hands, or any other part with Oyl, it will cause that he shall receive no hurt by the stinging of Bees, Wasps, or Hornets, as Aetius saith. Pliny citeth many fond and superstitious fained matters, and lying tales, devised by those who in his time were called Magi, Soothsayers or Diviners, concerning the admirable vertues of Caterpillers. All which, because I see them hissed out of the School of

Divinity, and that in heart secretly I have condemned them, I will at this time let them passe with∣out any further mention.

They are also a very good meat to divers Birds and Fowls, which are so needful for the use, bene∣fit, and food of mankinde, as to Starlings, Peacocks, Hens, Thrushes, Daws or Choughes: and to sundry fishes likewise, as to the Tench, Pike or Pikerel, and to a certain Sea-fish called a Scorpion: also to the Trout, and some others, who are easily deceived with a Caterpillered hook. Which kind of fishing fraud, if you would better be instructed in, I must refer you to Tarentinus in his Geoponicks, and to a little Book dedicated to Robert Dudley, late Earl of Leicester, written by Master Samuel Vicar of Godmanobester in Huntingtonshire.

It is not to be passed over in silence, how that not many years since, there came infinite swarms of Caterpillers out of Thracia into Polonia, Hungaria, and beyond the limits of Germany, which did not only devour the fruits of trees, but whatsoever was green either in the medows and tilled fields, besides the Vines: which was taken for an evident prognostick and sign (as many divined) of some great Turkish Army to come swarming into those parts: neither herein did this their ghessing and mistrust deceive them, for the next year following was the siedge of Vienna in Austria, the wasting, spoyling and over-running of Hungaria; and the deadly English-sweating could not contain it self in an Island, but must spread it self among them of the Continent, whereupon ensued the destru∣ction of many thousands of people, before any remedy could be found out. In the year of grace 1573. there rushed infinite swarms of Caterpillers into Italy, where they spoyled and made havock of all green buds and grasse growing upon the face of the earth, so that with their unquenchable and insatiate voracity, they left nothing but the bare roots of trees and plants: and this hapned chiefly about Mantua and Brixia. And upon the neck of this, followed a terrible and fearful pesti∣lence, of which there dyed about 50. thousand persons.

Also in the year of our Lord GOD 1570. there were two great and sudden swarms of Caterpillers that came rushing into Italy in the space of one Summer, which put the Romans into an exceeding great fear, for there was nothing left green in all their fields that could be preserved from their ra∣vine, and from their gluttonous and pilling maw. And although the fertility of the year immediately following, did almost blot and rase out the memory of this their heavy punishment, and that many seemed as it were to repent them of their repentance; yet are we not to doubt, but that many were truly penitent, and seriously were drawn to amendment of life by a due consideration hereof. God grant that we may be warned by other mens punishments, lest that poor creature, which we imagine to be the silliest and least able to do us harm, we finde the most heavy.

Of the BOAS.

IT was well known among all the Romans, that when Regulus was Governor or General in the Pu∣nick wars, there was a Serpent (neer the River Bagrade) killed with slings and and stones, even as a Town or little City is overcome, which Serpent was an hundred and twenty foot in length: whose skin and cheek bones were reserved in a Temple at Rome, until the Numantine war.

And this History is more easie to be believed because of the Boas Serpent bred in Italy at this day: for we read in Solinus, that when Claudius was Emperor, there was one of them slain in the Vatican at Rome, in whose belly was found an Infant swallowed whole, and not a bone thereof broken. The Germans call this Serpent Ʋncke, and besides them I do not read of any other Name. Some have ig∣norantly confounded it with Chersydrus, an Adder of the earth, but upon what reason I do not know, only Solinus discoursing of Calabria, might give some colour to this opinion, when he saith, Calabria Chersydris est frequent••ssima, & boam gignit quem Anguem ad immensam molem ferunt coalescere: that is to say, Calabria is full of Earth-adders, and it breedeth the Boas, which Snake some affirm will grow into a monstrous stature. Out of which words, there is no wise man can collect, that the Boas and the Ad∣der of the earth are all one thing.

The Latines call it Boa and Bova of Bos, because by sucking Cows milk it so encreaseth, that in the end it destroyeth all manner of herds, Cattel and Regions. And our domestical Snakes and Ad∣ders, will also suck milk from Kine, as in all the Nations of the world is most manifest to them that will observe the same.

The Italians do usually call them, Serpeda de Aqua, a Serpent of the water, and therefore all the Learned expound the Greek word Hydra for a Boas. Cardan saith, that there are of this kinde in the Kingdom of Senega, both without feet and wings, but most properly they are now found in Italy, ac∣cording to these verses;

Boa quidem Serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent.

Which may be Englished thus;

The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breed, Men say, upon the Milk of Cows doth feed.

Their fashion is in seeking for their prey among the heards, to destroy nothing that giveth suck so long as it will live, but they reserve it alive until the milk be dryed up, then afterward they kill and

and eat it, and so they deal with whole flocks and herds. The poyson of it, saith Festus, maketh tu∣mor and swelling in the body, whereunto all other agree, except Albertus, who in this point agrees not with himself, for in one place he saith, that they are venomous, and their teeth also like other Dragons, in another place he saith, their poyson is very weak, and not to be regarded, because they be Dragons of the third order or division. They go all upon their belly, and so I will conclude their story with Mantuan.

Turpi Boa flexilis alvo.

That is to say;

The filthy Boas on his belly moves.

Of the CHAMAELEON.

IT is very doubtful whether a Chamaeleon were ever known to the ancient Hebrews, because there is no certainty among them for the appellation thereof, some affirming one thing, and some another. We read Levit. 11. among other beasts there forbidden to be eaten of, Koab, or Koach, which Rabbi Kimhi interpreteth a kinde of Crocodile, (Hazab,) Rabbi Jonas in the Arabian, Hardun, and so also doth Avicen. The Chaldee, Koaha; the Perstans, An Sanga; the Septuagints and S. Je〈…〉〈…〉, a Chamaeleon. The self same word is found Levit. 14. which the Jews do vulgarly at this day take for Senicus, a Crocodile of the earth. The word Oah or Oach, seemeth to come neer to this, which is sometimes interpreted a Tortoyse, a Dragon, or a Monkey. And Oas by Sylvaticus, is translated a Salamander. Kaath by the Jews, is translated a Cuckow, a Jay, a Pelican and an Onocratua: and in the second of Sophoni, for a Chamaeleon. Some have framed an Hebrew word Gamalion, which is absurd, for Gameleon. Zamelon, Aamelon, Hamalcon, and Meleon, are but corrupted terms of Chamaeleon, as Istdorus well observeth, or else signifieth some of the kindes of Lizards or Stellions, as is manifest in Albertus, and other learned Writers. Therefore I will not blot more paper about the Arabian beasts, Harbe and Alharbe, Alarbian or Hardon, Haerdun, or Alharba, but leave them to the judgement of those, who delight in the investigation of such secrets.

Chamaeleon is a Greek word, from whence the Latines, and almost all Nations have borrowed the name of this Serpentine or creeping beast, except the Germans, and they only have fained names, as Lind••warm in Albertus, that is, a Worm of the Wood, and Rattader by Gesner, that is, a Ratmouse, because in quantity and composition it resembleth both those creatures. Some Latines by reason of the similitude it holdeth with a Lizard, call it Muri Laccritus, a Mouse Lizard. The Greek word Chamaeleon, signifieth a low and humble Lion, because in some parts and members, he resembleth that lofty and couragious beast. So do they derive the name of certain low and short herbs from great and tall trees, as Chamaecyparissus, Chamaedris, and Chamaepitys, shrubs of Plumtree, Heath, Cypres, Ger∣mander, and ground Ivy, from the Cherry, the Cypres, the Cedar, and the Pine tree. And thus much for the name of the Chamaeleon.

The Countries breeding Chamaeleons, are Africa, Asia, and India, and for the quantity thereof I do finde divers descriptions, some particular, as in Bellonius, and Scaliger, and some general in other Writers, all which I purpose briefly and successively to expresse in this place. It is said (saith Bel∣lonius) that the Frog and the Chamaeleon are like one to the other, because they use the same Art and industry in taking their meat: and to the intent that this thing may more evidently appear, both by the description and the picture, I have thought good to entreat of the Chamaeleon, amongst the Water-beasts, because it liveth for the most part in moist, marshy, and Fenny places. I have seen of them two kindes, one, a lesser kinde in Arabia, being of a whitish colour, all set over with yel∣lowish or reddish spots, and in quantity not exceeding the green Lizard. The other, in the hot places of Egypt, being twice as big in quantity as the Arabian, and of a changeable colour, betwixt white, green, brown and yellow, for which occasion some have called it versicolor Chamaeleon, that is, a turn-coat-coloured Chamaeleon. But both these kindes of Chamaeleons have a copped head, like to a Camel, and two bones at the top of their brows standing up on either side, and hanging out: their eyes are most clear and bright, about the bignesse of a pease, only covered with a skin, so that their appearance outward, exceedeth not the quantity of a Millet-seed. They are very flexible, turning upwards and downwards, and are able at one time to look two several ways, distinctly up∣on two several objects, wherein they exceed all other beasts. It is a heavy and dull beast, like the Salamander, neither can it run, but like a Lizard, wherefore it is not afraid of the sight of men, neither doth it run from their presence, neither is it easily provoked to harm or bite a man: it climbeth little trees for fear of Vipers and horned Serpents.

Some have thought that it never eateth meat, but is nourished with the winde, because it draweth in very eagerly many times the winde into the belly, whereby it swelleth; for it hath great lights stretched all along the sides of the belly: but this opinion is false, as shall be shewed hereafter, al∣though it cannot be denyed that it is Oviparum patientissimum famis: that is, The most induring famin among all other Egge-breeding-beasts, for it fasteth many times eight moneths: yea, a whole year together. In stead of nostrils and ears, it hath certain passages in those places, whereby it smelleth and heareth.

The opening of the mouth is very large, and it

[illustration]

hath teeth on the neather and upper chap like saws, such as are in a Slo-worm, the tongue very smooth, half a hand breadth long, where withal it licketh in those insect Flyes, Horse-flies, Locusts, and Emets whereupon it feedeth: For it keepeth at the mouth a certain fome or moisture, and also up∣on the tail or backer parts, wherewithal those Flyes and other Creatures are so much delighted, that they follow the Chamaeleon, and as it were bewitched with the desire thereof, they fall upon the moisture to their own perdition; and this is to be noted, that this moisture or fome in the backer parts of the belly is like a Spunge. It hath a line or strake under the belly, indented as it were with scales, white in colour, and stretched out to the tail; but the feet seem to be of an artificial work of Nature, wherein is a curious difference betwixt the former and the hinder: for the sorefeet have three fingers or claws within, and two without: the hinder-feet on the contrary, have two with∣out and three within. It layeth twelve long Egges, such as Lyzards do; the heart is not much greater then the heart of a domestical Mouse or Rat: it hath two laps of a Liver, whereof the left is the greater, unto which cleaveth the skin of the gall, the which skin exceedeth not in quantity a Barley corn. And thus far the description by Bellonius.

In the next place for the better manifestation of the nature of this beast, I will also adde the de∣scription that Scaliger maketh thereof. For he faith, that when Johannes Landius was in the farthest parts of Syria, he saw five Chamaeleons, whereof he bought one, which with his tongue did very suddenly take off a Fly from his breast: Where∣fore in the dissection of the said Chamaeleon, he found that the tongue thereof was as long as a hand breadth, hollow and empty, in the top where∣of there was a little hole with filthy matter there∣in, wherewithal he took his prey: which thing seemed new and slrange unto them which hereto∣fore thought that a Chamaeleon lived only by the air. His back was somewhat crooked, rising with spotted bunches like a Saw, like the Turbut fish, his belly closed with short ribs, his eyes most beautiful, which he turneth every way without bending his neck: his colour white, green, and dusky: naturally green, somewhat pale on the back, but paler and neerer to white on the belly, yet was it beset all over with red, blew, and white spots.

It is not true that the Chamaeleon changeth her self into all colours, upon green groweth green∣nesse, upon the dusky is tempered a dusky colour; but upon blew, red, or white, the native greennesse is not blemished or obscured, but the blew, white, and red spots yeeld a more lively and pleasant as∣pect; upon black, standeth brown, yet so as the green hew seemeth to be confounded with black, and it doth not change his own colour into a sup∣posed colour, but when it is oppressed with fear or grief. That it liveth sometime of the air, a whole year or more, doth appear, because it eateth no meat during that time, but gaping with a wide mouth draweth in the air, and then shutting his chaps again his belly swelleth. Yea, I found one that constantly affirmed, that they turn themselves to the beams of the Sun, and gaping wide after them, follow them hard as it were to draw them in. They have five distinct claws upon every foot, with two of which they clasp the round boughs or twigs of trees, as Parrats do when they sit upon their pearches, and these claws stand not as other Birds do, three together and one by it self, but in imparity or dissimilitude, three on the one side, and two on the other, and

so are parted with an inverse order, for the hinder and former are contrary one to the other, so as if there be three claws on the inside, and two on the outside of the leg before, then are there three on the outside behinde, and two on the inside: And thus much I received from Langius. So far Sca∣liger.

Now we will proceed to the particular description of their parts, as we finde them recorded in other Writers, leaving those brief and pregnable Narrations of Bellonius and Scaliger. And first of all for the figure and outward shape of their bodies, then for their colour, and the reasons of their mutability and variation of colour. For the figure and shape of their bodies, Pliny is of opinion, that a Chamaeleon is like to a Crocodile of the earth, except in the sharp bending of the back-bone, or the length or greatnesse of the tail. Some say that the whole parts of the body doth represent a Lizard, excepting that the sides are joyned to the belly, and the back-bone standeth up as in Fishes. Arnoldus saith it resembleth a Stellion if the legs were not straighter and higher: * 1.158 but the truth is, it is a four-footed-beast, much like to a Lizard, yet it goeth higher from the earth, and always gapeth, having a rough skin all over the body like a Crocodile, and is also full of scabs.

The length of it from the tip of the nose to the rump of the tail is seven or eight fingers, the height of them five fingers, and the legs alone, three fingers and a half. The length of the tail eight or nine fingers, the back-bone eminent and standing up, crested or indented all throughout to the tip of the tail, but ••ear the rump, the crests are more low and lesse visible. On either side at the root of the ribs stand bony eminent bunches, from which descendeth a line, and is extended throughout the length of the tail on both sides, and if it were not for these bunches the turnings about, and the other three in the lower part, it would be so exasperated or extenuated toward the end like to the tail of a Rat or great Mouse. The middle place betwixt the bottom of the belly and the top of the back, containeth an angle or flexure of sixteen ribs, after the fashion or proportion of a Greek Lambda, except that the angle thereof be more wide and patent, which looketh backward toward the tail, and within these ribs is the whole hanch of the body and belly, contained in a round com∣passe on eitheir side. Being black, it is not unlike the Crocodile, and being pale, it like to the Li∣zard, set over with black spots like a Leopard. It changeth colour both in the eyes, tail, and whole body, always into the colour of that which is next it, except red and white, which colours it can∣not easily undertake, so that it deceiveth the eyes of the beholders, turning black into green, and green into blew, like a Player, which putteth off one person, to put on another: according to these verses of Ovid;

Id quoque quod ventis animal nutritur & aura, Protinus assimilat, tetigit quoscun{que} colores.

In English thus;

The Beast that liveth by winde and weather, Of each thing touched taketh colour.

The reasons of this change or colour are the same which are given of the Busse and P〈…〉〈…〉 Fish; namely, extremity of fear, the thinnesse, smoothnesse, and baldnesse of the skin. Whereupon Ter∣tullian writeth thus; Hoc soli Chamaeleonti datum quod vulgo dictum est de suo corio ludere: That is to say, This is the only gift of nature to a Chamaeleon, that according to the common Proverb it deceiveth with his skin: meaning that a Chamaeleon at his own pleasure can change the colour of his skin. Whereupon Erasmus applyeth the proverb, de alieno corio ludere, to such as secure themselves with other mens peril. From hence also cometh another proverb, Chamaileontos rumei ab〈…〉〈…〉s, more mutable then a Chamaeleon, for a crafty, cunning, inconstant fellow, changing himself into every mans disposition; such a one was Alciblades, who was said to be in Athens, and of such a man resem∣bling this beast, did Alciatus make this emblem against flatterers:

Semper hiat, s••mper tenuem qua vescitur aurum, Reciprocat Chamaleon, Et mutat faciem, varios sum••tque colores, Praeter rubrum vel candidum. Sic & adulator populari vescitur aura, Hiansque cuncta devorat. Et solum mores imitutur princip••s atros, Albi & pudici nescius.

That is to say;

It alway gapes, turning in and out that breath Whereon it feeds: and often changeth hew: Now black and green, and pale, and other colors hath, But red and white Chamaeleons do eschew: So Clawbacks seed on vulgar breath as 〈◊〉〈◊〉, With open mouth devouring same and right, Princes black-vices praise, but vertues ••read, Designed in nature by colours red and white.

A Chamaeleon of all Egge-breeding Beasts is the thinnest, because it lacketh bloud, and the rea∣son here of is by Aristotle referred to the disposition of the soul: For he saith, through overmuch fear, it taketh upon it many colours, and fear through the want of bloud and heat is a refrigeration of this Beast.

Plutarch also calleth this Beast a meticulous and fearful beast, and in this cause concludeth the change of his colour, not as some say, to avoid and deceive the beholders and to work out his own happinesse, but for meer dread and terrour. Johannes Ʋrsinus assigneth the cause of the

change of Chamaeleons colour, not to fear, but to the meat and to the air, as appeareth by these verses;

Non timor, im•• cibus, nimirum limpidus 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Ambo simul vario membra colore novan••.

Which may be thus Englished;

Not fear, but meat which is the air thin, New colours on his body doth begin.

But I for my part do assign the true cause to be in the thinnesse of their skin, and therefore may easily take impression of any colour, like to a thin fleak of a horn, which being laid over black, seemeth black, and so over other colours: and besides, there being no hinderance of bloud in this Beast, nor Intrails, except the lights, the other humors may have the more predominant mutation, and so I will conclude the discourse of the parts and colour of a Chamaeleon, with the opinion of Kiranides, not that I approve it, but to let the Reader know all that is written of this Subject, his words are these; Chamaelem singulis horis diei mutat colorem, A Chamaeleon changeth his colour every hour of a day.

This Beast hath the face like a Lyon, the feet and tail of a Crocodile, having a variable color, as you have heard, and one strange continued nerve from the head to the tail, being altogether without flesh, except in the head, cheeks, and uppermost part of the tail, which is joyned to the body; nei∣ther hath it any bloud but in the heart, eys, and in a place above the heart, and in certain veins derived from that place, and in them also but a very little bloud.

There be many membranes all over their bodies, and those stronger then in any other Beasts. From * 1.159 the middle of the head backward, there ariseth a three square bone, and the fore part is hollow and round like a pipe, certain bony brims, sharp and indented, standing upon either side. Their brain is so little above their eyes, that it almost toucheth them, and the upper skin being pulled off from their eyes, there appeareth a certain round thing like a bright ring of Brasse, which Niphus calleth Paila, which signifieth that part of a Ring, wherein is set a pretious stone.

The eyes in the hollow within are very great, and much greater then the proportion of the body, round and covered over with such a skin as the whole body is, except the apple, which is bare, and that part is never covered. This apple stands immoveable, not turned, but when the whole eye is turned at the pleasure of the Beast. The snout is like to the snout of a Hog-ape, always gaping, and * 1.160 never shutting his mouth, and serving him for no other use but to bear his tongue and his teeth▪ his gums are adorned with teeth as we have said before, the upper lip being shorter and more turned in then the other. Their throat and artery are placed as in a Lizard: their lights are exceeding great, and they have nothing else within their body. Whereupon Theophrastus as Plutarch witnesseth, con∣ceiveth, that they fill the whole body within, and for this cause it is more apt to live on the air, and also to change the colour.

It hath no Spleen or Milt, the tail is very long, at the end and turning up like a Vipers tail, winded * 1.161 together in many circles. The feet are double cloven, and for proportion resemble the thumb and hand of a man, yet so, as if one of the fingers were set neer the side of the thumb, having three without and two within behinde, and three within, and two without before; the palm betwixt the fingers is somewhat great: from within the hinder-legs, there seem to grow certain spurs. Their legs are straight, and longer then a Lizards, yet is their bending alike, and their nails are crooked and very sharp. One of these being dissected and cut asunder, yet breatheth a long time after, they goe into the caves and holes of the earth like Lizards, wherein they lie all the Winter time, and come forth again in the Spring, their pace is very slow, and themselves very gentle, never exasperated but when they are about wilde Fig-trees.

They have for their enemies the Serpent, the Crow and the Hawk. When the hungry Serpent doth assault them, they defend themselves in this manner, as Alexander Mindius writeth; they take in their mouths a broad and strong stalk, under protection whereof as under a buckler, they defend themselves against their enemy the Serpent, by reason that the stalk is broader then the Serpent can gripe in his mouth, and the other parts of the Chamaeleon so firm and hard, as the Serpent cannot hurt them: he laboureth but in vain to get a prey, so long as the stalk is in the Chamaeleons mouth. But if the Chamaeleon at any time see a Serpent taking the air, and sunning himself under some green tree, he climbeth up into that tree, and setleth himself directly over the Serpent, then out of his mouth he casteth a thread like a Spider, at the end whereof hangeth a drop of poyson as bright as any pearl, by this string he letteth down the poyson upon the Serpent, which lighting upon it, killeth it immediately. And Scaliger reporteth a greater wonder then this in the description of the Chamaeleon, for he saith, if the boughs of the tree so grow as the perpendicular line cannot fall di∣rectly upon the Serpent, then he so correcteth and guideth it with his fore-feet, that it falleth upon the Serpent within the mark of a hairs breadth.

The Raven and the Crow are also at variance with the Chamaeleon, and so great is the adverse nature betwixt these twain, that if the Crow eat of the Chamaeleon being slain by him, he dyeth for it, except he recovereth his life by a Bay-leaf, even as the Elephant after he hath devoured a Cha∣maeleon, saveth his life by eating of the Wilde-olive-tree. But the greatest wonder of all is, the hostility which Pliny reporteth to be betwixt the Chamaeleon and the Hawk. For he writeth,

that when a Hawk flyeth over a Chamaeleon, she hath no power to resist the Chamaeleon, but fal∣leth down before it, yeelding both her life and limbs to be devoured by it; and thus that devourer that liveth upon the prey and bloud of others, hath no power to save her own life from this little Beast.

A Chamaeleon is a fraudulent, ravening and gluttonous Beast, impure, and unclean by the law of GOD, and forbidden to be eaten: in his own nature wilde, yet counterseiting meeknesse, when he is in the custody of man. And this shall suffice to have spoken for the description of this Beast, a word or two of the Medicines arising out of it, and so a conclusion.

I finde that the Ancients have observed two kindes of Medicines in this Beast, one magical, and the other natural, and for my own part, although not able to judge of either, yet I have thought good to annex a relation of both to this History. And first of the natural medicines, Democritus is of opinion that they deserve a peculiar Volume, and yet he himself telleth nothing of them worthy of one page, except the lying vanities of the Gentiles, and superstitions of the Grecians. With the gall, if the suffusions and leprous parts of the body be anointed three days together; and the white∣nesse of the eyes, it is believed to give a present remedy: and Archigenes prescribeth the same for a * 1.162 medicine for the taking away of the unprofitable and pricking hairs of the eye-brows. It is thought if it be mixed with some sweet composition that it hath power to cure a quotidian Ague. If the tongue of a Chamaeleon be hung over an oblivious and forgetful person, it is thought to have power to restore his memory.

The Chamaeleon from the head to the tail, hath but one Nerve, which being taken out and hung * 1.163 about the neck of him that holdeth his head awry, or backward, it cureth him. The other parts have the same operation as the parts of the Hyaena and the Sea-calf. If a Chamaeleon be sod in an * 1.164 earthen pot, and consumed till the water be as thick as Oyl, then after such seething take the bones out, and put them in a place where the Sun never cometh, then if you see a man in the fit of the Fal∣ling-sicknesse, turn him upon his belly, and anoint his back from the Os sacrum to the ridge-bone, and it will presently deliver him from the fit: but after seven times using, it will perfectly cure him. The Oyl thus made must be kept in a Box. This medicine following is a present remedy against * 1.165 the Gowt. Take the head and feet of a Chamaeleon, cut off also the outward parts of the knees and feet, and then keep by themselves those parts: that is to say, the parts of the right leg by themselves, and the parts of the left leg by themselves, then touch the Nail of the Chamaeleon with your thumb and right finger of your hand, dipping the tips of your fingers of the right hand in the bloud of the right foot of the Beast: and so likewise the fingers of the left hand in the bloud of the left foot, then include those parts in two little pipes, and so let the sick person carry the right parts in the right hand, and the left parts in the left hand, until he be cured: and this must be remembred, that he must touch every morning about the Sun-rising the said Chamaeleon, yet living and lapped in a linnen cloth, with those parts that are oppressed with the Gout.

The like superstitious and Magical devises are these that follow, as they are recorded by Pliny and Democritus. The head and throat being set on fire with wood of Oak, they believe to be good against Thunder and Rain, and so also the liver burned on a Tyle. If the right eye be taken out of it alive, and applyed to the whitenesse of the eyes in Goats milk, it is thought to cure the same. The tongue bound to a woman with child, preserveth her from danger in childe-birth, if the same tongue be taken from the Beast alive, it is thought it fore-sheweth the event of judgement. The Heart wrap∣ped in black Wooll of the first shearing, by wearing it cureth a quartane Ague; the right claw of the fore-feet bound to the lest arm with the skin of his cheeks, is good against robberies and terrors of the night, and the right pap against all fears. If the left foot be scorched in a furnace with the herb Chamaeleon, and afterward putting a little Ointment to it, and made into little Pasties, so being carryed about in a wooden box, it maketh the party to go invisible. The right shoulder maketh a man to prevail against his adversaries, if they do but tread upon the nerves cast down upon the earth. But the left shoulder they consecrate the same to monstrous dreams, as if that thereby a man might dream what he would in his own person and effect, the like in others.

With the right foot are all Palsies resolved, and with the left foot all Lethargies: the Wine wherein one side of a Chamaeleon hath been steeped, sprinkled upon the head, cureth the ach there∣of. If Swines Grease be mingled with the powder of the left foot or thigh, and a mans foot be anointed therewith, it bringeth the Gout, by putting the gall into fire, they drive away Serpents; and into Water, they draw together Weasels, it pulleth off hair from the body, so also doth the Liver, with the lights of a Toad; likewise the Liver dissolveth amorous Inchantments. Melancholy men are cured by drinking the juyce of a Chamaeleon out of a Chamaeleons skin. They also say, that the Intrails and dung of this Beast washed in the urine of an Ape, and hung up at our enemies gates, causeth reconciliation.

With the tail they bring Serpents asleep, and stay the flowing of the flouds and waters: the same mingled with Cedar and Myrrhe, bound to two rods of Palm, and struck upon water, causeth all things that are contained in the same water to appear; but I would to GOD that such Magicians were well beaten with Rods of stronger wood, until they forsook these magical fooleries: And thus much for the story of the Chamaeleon.

Of the COCKATRICE.

[illustration]

THis Beast is called by the Grecians, Basiliscos, and the Latines Regulus, because he seemeth to be the King of Serpents, not for his magnitude or greatnesse. For there are many Serpents * 1.166 bigger then he, as there be many four-footed Beasts bigger then the Lyon, but because of his stately pace, and magnanimous minde; for he creepeth not on the earth like other Serpents, but goeth half upright, for which occasion all other Serpents avoid his sight. And it seemeth nature hath ordained him for that purpose: for beside the strength of his poyson which is uncurable, he hath a certain combe or Coronet upon his head, as shall be shewed in due place. It is also call'd Si∣bilus, as we read in Isidorus, Sibilus enim occidit antequam mordeat vel exurat: The Cockatrice killeth before it burneth. The Hebrews call it Pethen, and Curman, also Zaphna, and Zaphnaini. The Chalde▪ H••mene, and also Carmene: The Aegyptian, Ʋreus; the Germans, E••n Ertz Schlengle; the French, Ʋn Besilie; the Spaniards and Italians, Basilisco.

There is some question amongst Writers, about the generation of this Serpent: for some (and those very many and learned) affirm him to be brought forth of a Cocks Egge. For they say that when a Cock groweth old, he layeth a certain Egge without any shell, in stead whereof it is covered with a very thick skin, which is able to withstand the greatest force of an easie blow or fall. They say moreover, that this Egge is laid only in the Summer time, about the beginning of Dog-days, being not long as a Hens Egge, but round and orbicular: Sometimes of a dusty, sometimes of a boxy, sometimes of a yellowish muddy colour, which Egge is generated of the putrefied seed of the Cock, and afterward set upon by a Snake or a Toad, bringeth forth the Cockatrice, being half a foot in length, the hinder-part like a Snake, the former part like a Cock, because of a treble combe on his fore-head.

But the vulgar opinion of Europe is, that the Egge is nourished by a Toad, and not by a Snake; howbeit in better experience it is found that the Cock doth sit on that Egge himself: whereof Levi∣〈…〉〈…〉 Lemnius in his twelfth Book of the hidden miracles of nature hath this discourse, in the fourth Chapter thereof. There happened (saith he) within our memory in the City of Pirizaea, that there were two old Cocks which had laid Egges, and the common people (because of opinion that those Egges would engender Cockatrices) laboured by all means possible to keep the said Cocks from sit∣ting on those Egges, but they could not with clubs and staves drive them from the Egges, until they forced to break the Egges in sunder, and strangle the Cocks. But this point is worth inqui∣ry, whether a Cock can conceive an Egge, and after a certain time lay the same without a shell. I for my part am perswaded, that when a Cock groweth old, and ceaseth to tread his fe∣male in the ordinary course of nature, which is in the seventh or ninth year of his age, or at the most in the fourteenth, there is a certain concretion bred within him by the putrefied heat of his body, through the staying of his seed generative, which hardeneth unto an Egge, and is covered with such a shell, as is said already: the which Egge being nourished by the Cock or some other beast, bringeth forth a venomous Worm, such as are bred in the bodies of men, or as Wasps, Horse-flies, and Caterpillers engendered of Horse-dung, or other putrefied humors of the earth▪

and so out of this Egge may such a venomous Worm proceed, as in proportion of body, and pesti∣ferous breath, may resemble the African Cockatrice or Basilisk, and yet it is not the same whereof we purpose here to intreat, but will acknowledge that to be one kinde of Cockatrice, but this kinde is generated like other Serpents of the earth, for as the ancient Hermes writeth, it is both false and impossible, that a Cockatrice should be hatched of a Cocks Egge. The same writer maketh mention of a Basilisk ingendered in dung, whereby he meaneth the Elixir of life, wherewithal the Alchymists convert metals.

The Aegyptian hold opinion, that these Cockatrices are ingendered of the Egges of the Bird cal∣led Ibis, and therefore they break those Egges wheresoever they finde them: and for this cause in their Hieroglyphicks, when they will signifie a lawful execution after an upright judgment, and sound institution of their fore-fathers, they are wont to make an Ibis, and a Cockatrice.

The Countries breeding or bringing forth these Cockatrices, are said to be these: First Africk, * 1.167 and therein the ancient seat or land of the Turks, Nubia, and all the Wildernesse of Africa, and the Countries Cyrenes. Galen among the Physitians only, doubteth whether there be a Cockatrice or no, whose authority in this case must not be followed, seeing it was never given to mortal man to see and know every thing, for besides the holy Scriptures unavoidable authority, which both in the prophesie of Esay and Jeremy, maketh mention of the Cockatrice and her Egges: there be many grave humane Writers, whose authority is irrefragable, affirming not only that there be Cocka∣trices, but also that they infect the air, and kill with their sight. And Mercurial affirmeth, that when he was with Maximilian the Emperor, he saw the carkase of a Cockatrice, reserved in his treasury among his undoubted monuments. Of this Serpent the Poet Georgius Pictorius writeth on this manner;

Rex est Serpentum Basiliscus, quem modo vineunt Mustelae insultus, saevaque bella ferae. Lernaeum vermem Basilisoum foeda Cyrene Producit cunctis maximè perniciem. Et nasci ex ovogalli, si credere fas est, Decrepiti, in fimo, sole nitente, docent. Sed quoniam olyactu laedit, visuque ferarum Omne genus, credas nulla tenere bona.

That is to say;

The Basilisk the Serpents King I finde, Yet Weasels him do overcome in warre, The Cyren land him breeds of Lernaes kinde, They to all other a destruction are: And if we may believe, that through the heat of Sun, In old Cocks Egges this beast is raised first, Or beasts by sight or smell thereof are all undone, Then is't not good, but of his kinde the worst.

We do read that in Rome, in the days of Pope Leo the fourth, there was a Cockatrice found in a Vault of a Church or Chappel, dedicated to Saint Lucea, whose pestiferous breath had infected the air round about, whereby great mortality followed in Rome: but how the said Cockatrice came thither it was never known. It is most probable that it was created and sent of GOD for the punish∣ment of the City, which I do the more easily believe, because Sigonius and Julius Scaliger do affirm, that the said pestiferous beast was killed by the prayers of the said Leo the fourth.

I think they mean that by the authority of the said Bishop, all the people were moved to general fasting and prayer, and so Almighty GOD who was moved for their sins, to send such a plague amongst them, was likewise intreated by their prayers and suits, not only to reverse the plague, but with the same hand to kill the beast, wherewithal it was created: even as once in Aegypt by the hand of Moses, he brought Grasse-hoppers and Lice, so by the same hand he drove them away again.

There is some small difference amongst the Writers, about the quantity and parts of this Ser∣pent: which I will briefly reconcile. First Aelianus saith, that a Cockatrice is not past a span in com∣passe, that is as much as a man can gripe in his hand. Pliny saith, that it is as big as twelve fingers. Solinus and Isidorus affirm, that it is but half a foot long.

Avicen saith, that the Arabian Harmena, that is, the Cockatrice, is two cubits and a half long. Ni∣cander saith, Et tribus extenso porrectus corpore palmis, that is, it is in length but three palms. Actius saith, that it is as big as three handfuls. Now for the reconciliation of all these. It is to be understood, that Pliny and Aelianus speaketh of the Worm that cometh out of the Cocks Egge, in regard of the length, but not of the quantity, and so confound together that Worm and the Cockatrice. For it is very reasonable, that seeing the magnitude and greatnesse of the Serpent is concluded to be at the least a span in compasse, that therefore the length of it must needs be three or four foot at the shortest; else how could it be such a terror to other Serpents, or how could the fore-part of it arise so eminently above the earth, if the head were not lifted at the least a foot from the ground. So then we will take it for granted, that this Serpent is as big as a mans wrist, and the length of it answerable to that proportion.

It is likewise questionable whether the Cockatrice have wings or no: for by reason of his con∣ceived generation from a Cock, many have described him in the fore-part to have wings, and in the hinder part to have a tail like a Serpent: And the conceit of wings seemeth to be derived from holy Scripture, because it is written Esay 14. vers. 29. De radice colubri egredietur regulus & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ejus absorbens volucrem: That is to say, Out of the Serpents roots shall come a Cockatrice, and the fruit thereof shall be a fiery flying Serpent, as we translate it in English: but Tremellius the best In∣terpreter, doth render the Hebrew in this manner: De radice Serpentis prodit haemorrhus & fructus ••••∣lius prester volans: That is to say, word for word, Out of the root of the Serpent shall come the

Hemorrhe, and the fruit thereof a flying Prester. Now we know, that the Haemorrhe and the Prester are two other different kindes of Serpents from the Cockatrice, and therefore these Interpreters being the more faithful and learned, we will rather follow the holy Scripture in their translation, then the vulgar Latine, which is corrupted in very many places, as it is also Esay the 30. vers. 6. For Prester there is again in the vulgar translation the Cockatrice: and for this cause we have not de∣scribed the Cockatrice with wings, as not finding sufficient authority to warrant the same.

The eyes of the Cockatrice are red, or somewhat inclining to blacknesse, the skin and carkase of this beast have been accounted precious, for we do read that the Pergament did buy but certain pieces of a Cockatrice, and gave for it two pound and a half of silver: and because there is an opinion that no Bird, Spider, or venomous beast, will indure the sight of this Serpent, they did hang up the skin thereof stuffed, in the Temples of Apollo and Diana, in a certain thin net made of gold: and therefore it is said, that never any Swallow, Spider, or other Serpent durst come within those Temples: And not only the skin or the sight of the Cockatrice worketh this effect, but also the * 1.168 flesh thereof, being rubbed upon the pavement, posts or walls of any House. And moreover, if Silver be rubbed over with the powder of the Cockatrices flesh, it is likewise said, that it giveth it a tincture like unto gold: and besides these qualities, I remember not any other in the flesh or skin of this Serpent.

The hissing of the Cockatrice which is his natural voyce, is terrible to other Serpents, and there∣fore as soon as they hear the same, they prepare themselves to fly away, according to these verses of Nicander;

Illius auditos expectant nulla susurros, Quantumvis magnas sinuent animalia spiras, Quandovel in pastum, vel opacae devia silvae, Irriguósve locos, mediae sub luce diei Excandescenti succensa furore feruntur, Sed turpi conversa fugae dant terga retror sum.

Which may be Englished thus;

When as the greatest winding Serpents hear, (Feeding in Woods or pasture all abroad, Although inclos'd in many spiret, yet fear: Or in mid-day the shadows near Brooks road,) The fearful hissing of this angry beast, They run away, as fast as feet can lead them, Flying his rage unto some other rest, Turning their backs whereby they do escape him.

We read also that many times in Africa, the Mules fall down dead for thirst, or else lye dead on the ground for some other causes, unto whose Carkase innumerable troops of Serpents gather themselves to feed thereupon: but when the Basilisk windeth the said dead body, he giveth forth his voyce: at the first hearing whereof, all the Serpents hide themselves in the near adjoyning sands, or else run into their holes, not daring to come forth again, until the Coackatrice have well dined and satisfied himself. At which time he giveth another signal by his voyce of his departure: * 1.169 then come they forth, but never dare meddle with the remnants of the dead beast, but go away to seek some other prey. And if it happen that any other pestiferous beast come unto the waters to drink near the place wherein the Cockatrice is lodged, so soon as it perceiveth the presence thereof, al∣though it be not heard nor seen, yet it departeth back again, without drinking, neglecting his own nutriment, to save it self from further danger; whereupon Lucanus saith;

—Latè sibi sub〈…〉〈…〉vet omne Vulgus, & in vacua regnat Basiliscus arena.

Which may be thus Englished;

He makes the vulgar far from him to stand, While Cockatrice alone raigns on the sand.

So then it being evident that the hissing of a Cockatrice is terrible to all Serpents, and his breath and poyson mortall to all manner of Beasts: yet hath God in nature not left this vile Serpent with∣out an enemy; for the Weasil and the Cock are his triumphant Victors; and therefore Pliny saith well: Huic tali monstro quod saepe enectum concupivere reges videre, mustelaerum virus exitio est, adeò naturae nihil placuit esse sine pari: That is to say, This monster which even Kings have desired to see when it was dead, yet is destroyed by the poyson of Weasils, for so it hath pleased Nature, that no Beast should be without his match.

The people therefore when they take Weasils, after they have found the Caves and lodging places of the Cockatrices, which are easily discerned by the upper face of the earth, which is burned with their hot poyson, they put the Weasil in unto her: at the sight whereof the Cockatrice flyeth like a weakling over matched with too strong an adversary, but the Weasil followeth after and killeth her. Yet this is to be noted, that the Weasil both before the fight and after the slaughter, armeth her self by eating of Rue, or else she would be poysoned with the contagious air about the Cockatrice: and besides this Weasil, there is no other beast in the World which is able to stand in contention against the Cockatrice, saith Lemnius.

Again, even as a Lyon is afraid of a Cock, so is the Basilisk for he is not only afraid at his sight, but almost dead when he heareth him crow, which thing is notoriously known throughout all Afri∣ca. And therefore all Travellers which go through the Deserts, take with them a Cock for their safe conduct against the poyson of the Basilisk: and thus the crowing of the Cock is a terror to Lyons, and a death to Cockatrices, yet he himself is afraid of a Kite.

There are certain learned Writers in Saxony, which affirm, that there are many kindes of Serpents in their Woods; whereof one is not unlike to a Cockatrice: for they say it hath a very sharp head, a yellow colour, in length not exceeding three Palms, of a great thicknesse, his belly spotted and adorned with many white pricks: the back blew, and the tail crooked and turned up: but the open∣ing of his mouth is far wider then the proportion of his body may seem to bear. These Serpents may well be referred to Cockatrices: for howsoever their poyson is not so great as the Basilisks of Africa, (even as all other Serpents of the hot Countries are far more pestiferous then those which are bred in the cold Countries:) the very same reason perswadeth me, that there is a difference among the Cockatrices, and that those of Saxonia may differ in poyson from those in Africa, and yet be true Cockatrices: Besides this, there is another reason in Lemnius, which perswadeth the Reader there are no Cockatrices; because when the Countreymen set upon them to kill them with Clubs, Bills, or Forks, they receive no hurt at all by them, neither is their any apparent con∣tagion of the air: but this is answered already, that the poyson in the cold Countrey is nothing so great as in the hot; and therefore in Saxony they need fear the biting, and not the airs infection.

Cardan relateth another story of a certain Serpent, which was found in the walls of an old de∣cayed House in Millan, the head of it (saith he) was as big as an Egge, too big for the body, which in quantity and shape resembled a Stellion. There were teeth on either chap, such as are in Vipers. It had two legs, and those very short, but great, and their feet had claws like a Cats: so that when it stood it was like a Cock, for it had a bunch on the top of the head, and yet it wanted both feathers and wings: The tail was as long as the body, in the top thereof there was a round bunch as big as the head of an Italian Stellion. It is very likely that this beast is of the kinde of Cockatrices.

Now we are to intreat of the poyson of this Serpent, for it is a hot and venomous poyson, infe∣cting the air round about, so as no other creature can live near him; for it killeth, not only by his hissing and by his sight, (as is said of the Gorgons,) but also by his touching, both immediately and mediately; that is to say; not only when a man toucheth the body it self, but also by touching a Weapon wherewith the body was slain, or any other dead beast slain by it; and there is a common fame, that a Horse-man taking a Spear in his hand, which had been thrust through a Cockatrice, did not only draw the poyson of it into his own body and so dyed, but also killed his Horse thereby. Lucan writeth;

Quid prodest miseri Basiliscus cuspide Mauri Transactus? velox currit per tela venenum, Invadit manum equumque.

In English thus;

What had the Moore to kill The Cockatrice with Spear, Sith the swift poyson him did spill, And Horse that did him bear.

The question is in what part of this Serpent the poyson doth lie; some say in the head alone, and that therefore the Basilisk is deaf, because the Air which serveth the Organ of hearing, is resolved * 1.170 by the intensive calidity: but this seemeth not to be true, that the poyson should be in the head only, because it killeth by the fume of the whole body, and besides when it is dead it killeth by only touching it, and the Man or Beast so slain, doth also by touching kill another: Some again say, that the poyson is in the breast, and that therefore it breatheth at the sides, and at many other places of the body, through and betwixt the scales; which is also true, that it doth so breath: for otherwise the burning fume that proceedeth from this poysonful beast, would burn up the Intrails thereof, if it came out of the ordinary place; and therefore Almighty GOD hath so ordained, that it should have spiraments and breathing places in every part of the body, to vent away the heat, left that in very short time, by the inclusion thereof, the whole compage and juncture of the body should be utterly dissolved, and separated one part from another.

But to omit inquiry in what part of his body the poyson lyeth, seeing it is most manifest that it is universal, we will leave the seat thereof, and dispute of the instruments and effects.

First of all therefore it killeth his own kinde, by sight, hearing, and touching. By his own kinde, I mean other Serpents, and not other Cockatrices, for they can live one beside another, for if it were true (which I do not believe) that the Arabian Harmene were any other Serpent then a Cocka∣trice, the very same reason that Ardoynus giveth of the fellowship of these two Serpents together, (because of the similitude of their natures) may very well prove that no divers kindes can live so well together, in safety without harming one another, as do one and the same kinde together. And therefore there is more agreement in nature betwixt a Cockatrice and a Cockatrice, then a Cocka∣trice and Harmene, and it is more likely that a Cockatrice doth not kill a Cockatrice, then that a Cockatrice doth not kill an Harmene: And again, Cockatrices are engendered by Egges, according to the holy Scripture; and therefore one of them killeth not another by touching, hiffing, or see∣ing, because one of them hatcheth another. But it is a question whether the Cockatrice dye by the sight of himself: some have affirmed so much, but I dare not subscribe thereunto, because in

reason it is unpossible that any thing should hurt it self, that hurteth not another of his own kinde, yet if in the secret of nature GOD have ordained such a thing, I will not strive against them that can shew it.

And therefore I cannot without laughing, remember the old Wives tales of the Vulgar Cocka∣trices that have been in England; for I have oftentimes heard it related confidently, that once our Nation was full of Cockatrices, and that a certain man did destroy them by going up and down in Glasse, whereby their own shapes were reflected upon their own faces, and so they dyed. But this fable is not worth refuting, for it is more likely that the man should first have dyed by the corrupti∣on of the air from the Cockatrices, then the Cockatrices to die by the reflection of his own similitude from the glasse, except it can be shewed that the poysoned air could not enter into the glasse where∣in the man did breath.

Among all living creatures, there is none that perisheth sooner then doth a man by the poyson of a Cockatrice, for with his sight he killeth him, because the beams of the Cockatrices eyes, do cor∣rupt the visible spirit of a man, which visible spirit corrupted, all the other spirits coming from the brain and life of the heart, are thereby corrupted, and so the man dyeth: even as women in their monthly courses do vitiate their looking-glasses; or as a Wolf suddenly meeting a Man, taketh from him his voyce, or at the least-wise maketh him hoarse.

To conclude, this poyson infecteth the air, and the air so infected killeth all living things, and like∣wise all green things, fruits, and plants of the earth: it burneth up the grasse whereupon it goeth or creepeth, and the fowls of the air fall down dead when they come near his den or lodging. Some∣times he biteth a Man or a Beast, and by that wound the bloud turneth into choler, and so the whole body becometh yellow as gold, presently killing all that touch it, or come near it. The symptomes are thus described by Nicander, with whose words I will conclude this History of the Cockatrice, writing as followeth:

Quod ferit hic, multo corpus succenditur igne, A membris resoluta suis caro defluit, & fit Lurida & obscuro nigrescit opaca colore. Nullae etiam volucres quae foeda cadavera pascunt, Sic occisum hominem tangunt, ut vultur, & omnes: Huic similes alia, pluviae quoque nuncius aurae Corvus, nec quaecun{que} fera per devia lusira Degunt, è tali capiunt sibi tabula carne. Tum teter vacuas odor hinc exhalat in auras, Atque propinquantes penetrant non segniter artus: Sin cogente fame veniens approximet ales, Tristia fata refert, certam{que} ex aëre mortem.

Which may be Englished thus;

When he doth strike, the body hurt is set on fire, And from the members falleth off the flesh, withall, It ratten is, and in the colour black as any mire. Refus'd of carrion-feeding-birds both great and small Are all men so destroy'd. No Vulture or Biter fierce, Or Weather telling-crow, or Desarts wildest beast, Which live in dens sustaining greatest famines force, But at their tables do this flesh detest. Then is the air repleat with's lothsome smell, Piercing vital parts of them approaching neer, And if a bird it tast to fill his hunger fell, It dies assured death, none need it fear.

Of the CORDIL.

ALthough I finde some difference about the nature of this living creature, and namely whether it be a Serpent or a Fish, yet because the greater and better part make it a Serpent, I will also bring it in his due order in this place for a venomous Beast. Gesner is of opinion, that it is no other but a Lizard of the Water; but this cannot agree with the description of Aristotle and Bellonius, who affirm the Cordil to have Gills like a Fish, and these are not found in any Lizard. The Grecians call this Serpent Kordule, and Kordulos, whereof the Latines derive or rather borrow their Cordulus, and Cordyla. Numenius maketh this a kinde of Salamander which the Apothecaries do in many Countries falsely sell for the Scincus or Crocodile of the earth, and yet it exceedeth the quantity of a Salaman∣der, being much lesse then the Crocodile of the earth, having gills, and wanting fins on the sides, also a long tail, and according to the proportion of the body, like a Squirrels, although nothing so big, without scabs: the back being bald and somewhat black, and horrible rough, through some bunches growing thereupon, which being pressed do yeeld a certain humor like milk, which being laid to the Nosthrils doth smell like poyson, even as it is in a Salamander. The beak or snout is very blunt or dull, yet armed with very sharp teeth. The claws of his fore-legs are divided into four, and on his hinder-legs into five: there is also a certain fleshy fin growing all along from the crown of his head, unto his tail upon the back, which when he swimmeth he erecteth, and by it is his body sustained in the wa∣ter from sinking, for his body is moved with crooked winding, even as an Eel or a Lamprey.

The inward parts of this Serpent are also thus described. The tongue is soft and spungy, like as is the tongue of a Water-frog, wherewith as it were with glew, he draweth to his mouth, both Leeches and Worms of the earth, whereupon it feedeth. At the root of his tongue there is a certain bunch of flesh, which as I think supplyeth the place of the lights, for when it breatheth, that part is especially moved, and it panteth to and fro, so that thereby I gather, either it hath the lights in that place, or else in some other place near the jaws. It wanteth ribs as doth the Salamander, and it hath certain bones in the back, but not like the ordinary back-bone of other such Serpents. The heart is also all spungy, and cleaveth to the right side, not to the left: the left ear whereof supplyeth the place of the Pericardium.

The liver is very black, and somewhat cloven at the bending or sloap side: the milt somewhat red, cleaving to the very bottom of the ventricle. The reins are also very spungy, joyned almost to the legs, in which parts it is most fleshy, but in other places, especially in the belly and breast, it is all skin and bone. It also beareth egges in her place of conception, which is forked or double, which are there disposed in order, as in other living griftly creatures. Those Egges are nourished with a kinde of red fat, out of which in due time come the young ones alive, in as great plenty and number as the Salamanders. And these things are reported by Bellonius, besides whom I finde nothing more said, that is worthy to be related of this Serpent, and therefore I will here conclude the History whereof.

Of the CROCODILE.

BEcause there be many kindes of

[illustration]

Crocodiles, it is no marvel al∣though some have taken the word Cro∣codilus for the Genus, and the several Species, they distinguish into the Cro∣codile of the earth and the water. Of the earth are sub-divided into the Crocodiles of Bresilia, and the Scin∣cus: the Crocodiles of the water in∣to this here described, which is the vulgar one, and that of Nilus; of all which we shall entreat in order, one successively following another. But I will not contend about the Genus or Species of this word, for my purpose is to open their several natures, so far as I have learned, wherein the works of Almighty God may be known, and will leave the strife of words to them that spend their wits about tearms and syllables only. Thus much I finde, that the Ancients had three general tearms for all egge-breeding Serpents. Namely, Rana, Testudo, Lacerta: And therefore I may forbear to entreat of Crocodilus as a Genus, and handle it as a Species, or particular kinde. The Hebrews have many words which they use for a Crocodile. Koah, Levit. 11. which the Arabians render Hardun; and the Persians, Sanga, which word cometh near the Latine word Scin∣cus for a Crocodile of the earth, and yet that word Koah by Saint Jerom, and the Septuagints is translated a Cha∣maeleon.

In the same place of Leviticus the word Zab is interpreted a kinde of Crocodile wherewithall David Kimhi confoundeth Greschint, and Rabbi So∣lomon, Faget. The Chaldees translate it Zaba; the Persians, An Rasu; the Septuagints, a Crocodile of the earth; but it is better to follow Saint Hierom in the same, because the Text addeth according to his kinde, wherefore it is superfluous to adde the distinction of the Crocodile of the earth, except it were lawful to eat the Crocodiles of the water.

In Exod. 8. there is a fish called Zephardea, which cometh out of the waters and eateth men, this cannot agree to any fish in Nilus, save only the Crocodile; and therefore this word is by the Arabians rendered Al Timasch. Some do here∣by

understand Pagulera, Grenelera, and Batra〈…〉〈…〉, that to great Frogs. Aluka by the most of the Jews understand a Horsleach, Prov. 30. but David Kimhi taketh and useth it for a Crocodile. For he saith, it is a great Worm, abiding n••••r the Rivers sides, and upon a sudden setteth upon men or cat∣tel as they passe beside him. Tisma and Alinsa are by Avicen expounded for a Crocodile: and Tenchea for that Crocodile that never moveth his neather or under chap.

Strabo saith, that in the Province of Arsinoe in Egypt, there is a holy Crocodile, worshipped by the Inhabitants, and kept tame by the Priests in a certain Lake, this sacred Crocodile is called Suchus, and this word cometh neer to Scincus, which as we have said, signifieth any Crocodile of the earth, from which the Arabian Tinsa semeth also to be derived, as the Egyptian Thampsai doth come neer to the Arabian Tremisa. Horodotus calleth them Champsai, and this was the old Ionian word for a Vulgar Crocodile in hedges. Upon occasion whereof Scaliger saith, he asked a Turk by what name they call a Crocodile at this day in Turky, and he answered Kimpsai, which is most evidently corrupted from Champsai.

The Egyptians vulgarly call the Crocodile of Nilus, C••catri••, the Grecians, Neilokrokodeilos, ge∣nerally Krocodeilos, and sometimes Dendrites. The Latines, Crocodilus; and Albertus, Crocodillus, and the same word is retained in all languages of Europe. About the Etymology of this word, I finde two opinions not unprofitable to be rehearsed: the first, that Crocodilus cometh of Crocus, Saffron, because this Beast, especially the Crocodile of the earth, is afraid of Saffron, and therefore the Countrey people, to defend their Hives of Bees and Honey from them, strow upon the places Saf∣fron. But this is too far fetched, to name a Beast from that which it feareth, and being a secret in nature, it is not likely that it was discovered at the first, and therefore the name must have some other investigation.

Isidorus saith, that the name Crocodilus cometh of Croceus color, the colour of Saffron, because such is the colour of the Crocodile: and this seemeth to be more reasonable. For I have seen a Crocodile in England brought out of Egypt dead, and killed with a Musket, the colour whereof was like to Saf∣fron growing upon stalks in fields. Yet it is more likely, that the derivation of Varinus and Eusta∣thius was the original, for they say that the shores of sands on the Rivers, were called Crocae and Cro∣cula: and because the Crocodiles haunt and live in those shores, it might give the name to the Beasts, because the water Crocodiles live and delight in those sands, but the land or earth Crocodiles abhor and fear them.

It is reported that the famous Grammarian Artemidorus seeing a Crocodile lying upon the lands, * 1.171 he was so much touched and moved therewith, that he fell into an opinion that his left leg and hand were eaten off by that Serpent, and that thereby he lost the remembrance of all his great learning and knowledge of Arts. And thus much for the name of this Serpent.

In the next place we are to consider the Countries wherein Crocodiles are bred, and keep their * 1.172 habitation, and those are especially Egypt, for that only hath Crocodiles of both kindes, that is, of the water and of the land, for the Crocodiles of Nilus are Amphibil, and live in both elements: they are not only in the River Nilus, but also in all the pools near adjoyning. The River Bambotus neer to Atlas in Africa, doth also bring forth Crocodiles: and Pliny saith, that in Darat a River of Mauritania, there are Crocodiles ingendered. Likewise Apollonius reporteth, that when he passed by the River Indus, he met with many Sea-horses and Crocodiles, such as are found in the River Nilus, and besides these Countries I do not remember any other, wherein are ingendered Crocodiles of the water, which are the greatest and most famous Crocodiles of all other.

The Crocodiles of the earth, which are of lesser note and quantity, are more plentiful, for they are found in Lybia, and in Bythinia, where they are called Azaritia, and in the Mountain Syagrus in Arabia, and in the Woods of India, as is well observed by Arianus, Dioscorides, and Hermolaus, and therefore I will not prosecute this matter any further.

The kindes being already declared, it follows that we should proceed to their quantity and seve∣ral * 1.173 parts. And it appeareth that the water Crocodile is much greater, and more noble then the Cro∣codiles of the earth; for they are not not above two cubits long, or sometimes eight at the most, but the others are sixteen, and sometimes more. And besides, these Crocodiles, if they lay their egs, in the water (saith Dellunensis) then their young ones are much greater, but if on the land, then they are lesser, and like the Crocodiles of the earth. In the River Ganges there are two kindes of Crocodiles, one of them is harmlesse, and doth no hurt to any creature, but the other is a devouring unfatiable Beast, killing all that he layeth his mouth on, without all mercy or exorable quality, in the top of whose snowt there groweth a bunch like a horn.

Now a Crocodile is like a Lizard in all points (excepting the tail, and the quantity of a Lizard,) yet it layeth an Egge no greater then a Gooses Egge, and from so small a beginning a beginning ariseth this mon∣strous Serpent, growing all his life long, unto the length of fifteen or twenty cubits. And as Phala∣reus witnesseth in the days of Psammitichas King of Egypt, there was one found of five and twenty cubits long: and before that, in the days of Amasis, one that was above six and twenty cubits long, the reason whereof was their long life, and continual growth.

We have shewed already, that the colour of a Crocodile is like to Saffron, that is betwixt yel∣low and red, more inclining to yellow then red, not unlike to the blacket kinde of Chamaeleon: but Peter Martyr saith, that their belly is somewhat whiter then the other parts. Their body is rough all over, being covered with a certain bark or rinde, so thick, firm, and strong as it will not yeeld (and especially about the back) unto a cart-wheele when the cart is loaded, and in all the upper

parts, and the tail, it is impenetrable with any dart or spear, yea scarsely to a pistol or small gun, but the belly is softer, whereon he receiveth wounds with more facility: for as we shall shew afterwards, there is a kinde of Dolphin which cometh into Nilus, and fighteth with them, wounding them on the belly parts.

The covering of their back is distinguished into divers divided shells, standing up far above the flesh, and towards the sides they are lesse eminent, but on the belly they are more smooth, white, and very penetrable. The eyes of a Crocodile of the water, are reported to be like unto a Swines, and therefore in the water they see very dimly, but out of the water they are sharp and quick sight∣ed, like to all other four-footed Serpents that lay egges. They have but one eye lid, and that grow∣eth from the neather part of the cheek, which by reason of their eyes never twinckleth. And the * 1.174 Egyptians say, that only the Crocodile among all the living creatures in the water, draweth a certain thin bright skin from his fore-head over his eyes, wherewithall he covereth his sight: and this I take to be the only cause of his dim sight in the waters.

The head of this Beast is very broad, and his snout like a Swines. When he eateth or biteth, he never moveth his neather or under chap. Whereof Aristotle giveth this reason, that seeing Nature hath * 1.175 given him so short feet, as that they are not able to hold or to take the prey, therefore the mouth is framed in stead of feet, so as it may more vehemently strike and wound, and also more speedily move and turn after the prey, and this is better done by the upper then the neither chap. But it is likely that he was deceived, for he speaketh of Crocodilus marinus, a Crocodile of the Sea: whereas there is no Crocodile of the Sea, but rather some other monster like a Crocodile in the Sea, and such peradven∣ture Albertus saw, and thereupon inconsiderately affirmed, that all Crocodiles move their under-chaps, except the Teuchea. But the learned Vessalius proveth it to be otherwise, because that the neather-chap is so conjoyned and fastened to the bones of the temples, that it is not possible for to be moved. And therefore the Crocodile only among all other living creatures, moveth the upper-chap, and holdeth the under-chap unmoveable.

The second wonder unto this, is that the Crocodile hath no tongue, nor so much as any appear∣ance * 1.176 of a tongue. But then the question is, how it cometh to distinguish the sapours and tast of his meat. Whereunto Aristotle answereth that this Crocodile is such a ravening Beast, that his meat tarryeth not in his mouth, but is carryed into his stomach, like as other water Beasts, and therefore they discern sapours, and relish their meat more speedily then other; for the water or humor fal∣leth so fast into their mouths, that they cannot stand long upon the tast or distast of their meat. But yet some make question of this, and they answer that most men are deceived herein, for whiles they look for his tongue upon his neather-chap, as it is in all other Beasts, and finde none, they conclude him to want that part: but they should consider, that the tongue cleaveth to the moveable part, and as in other Beasts the neather-chap is the seat of the tongue, because of the motion, so in this the tongue cleaveth to the upper-chap, because that it is moveable, and yet not visible as in other, and therefore is very hardly discerned. For all this, I rather conclude with the former Authors, that seeing it liveth both in the waters and on the land, and therefore it resembleth a fish and a beast, as it resembleth a Beast, locum obtinet linguae, it hath a place for a tongue; but as it resembleth a fish, Elinguis est, it is without a tongue. It hath great teeth standing out, all of them stand out before visibly when the mouth is shut, and fewer behinde. And whereas Aristotle writeth, that there is no living creature which hath both dentes prominentes, & serratos, that is, standing out, and divided like a saw, yet the Crocodile hath both. These teeth are white, long, sharp, and a little crooked * 1.177 and hollow, their quantity well resembling the residue of the proportion of the body: and some say, that a Crocodile hath three rows of teeth, like the Lyon of Chius, and like the Whale, but this is not an approved opinion, because they have no more then sixty teeth. They have also sixty joynts or bones in the back, which are also tyed together with so many nerves. The opening of his * 1.178 mouth reacheth to the place of his ears, and there be some Crocodiles in Ganges which have a kinde of little horn upon their noses or snout. The milt is very small, and this some say is only in them that bring forth egges, their stones are inward and cleave to their loyns. The tail is of the same length that the whole body hath, and the same is also rough and armed with hard skin upon the upper part and the sides, but beneath it is smooth and tender. It hath fins upon the tail, by the benefit whereof it swimmeth, as also by the help of the feet, The feet are like a Bears, ex∣cept that they are covered with scales in stead of hair; their nails are very sharp and strong for if it had a thumb as well as it hath feet, the strength thereof would over-turn a ship. It is doubtful whe∣ther it hath any place of excrement except the mouth. And thus much for the several parts of the Crocodile.

The knowledge also of the natural actions and inclinations of Crocodiles is requisite to be hand∣led in the next place, because that actions follow the members as sounds do instruments. First therefore, although Aristotle for the most part speaking of a Crocodile, calleth it aquatilis & fluvia∣tilis, yet it is not to confine it to the Waters and Rivers, as though it never came out of them like fishes, but only to note that particular kinde which differeth from them of the earth, for it is cer∣tain that it liveth in both elements, namely earth and water: and for the time that it abideth in the water, it also taketh air, and not the humor or moistnesse of the water, yet can they not want either humor of the water or respiration of the air; and for the day time it abideth on the land, and in the night in the water, because in the day, the earth is hotter then the water, and in the night * 1.179 the water warmer then the earth: and while it liveth on the land, it is so delighted with the Sun-shine,

and lyeth therein so immoveable, that a man would take it to be stark dead. The eyes of a Crocodile (as we have said) are dull and blinde in the water, yet they appear bright to others, for this cause, when the Egyptians will signifie the Sun-rising, they picture a Crocodile looking upward to the earth, and when they will signifie the West, they picture a Crocodile diving in the water, and so for the most part the Crocodile lyeth upon the banks, that he may either dive into the water with speed, or ascend to the earth to take his prey.

By reason of the shortnesse of his feet, his pace is very slow, and therefore it is not only easie to escape from him by flight, but also if a man do but turn aside and winde out of the direct way, his body is so unable to bend it self, that he can neither winde nor turn after it. When they go under the earth into their caves, like to all fore-footed and egge-breeding Serpents, as namely Lizards, Stellions, and Tortoises, they have all their legs joyned to their sides, which are so retorted as they may bend to either side; for the necessity of covering their egges; but when they are abroad, and go bearing up all their bodies, then they bend only outward, making their thighs more visible. It is somewhat questionable, whether they lye hid within their caves four months or sixty days, for some Authors affirm one thing, and some another, but the reason of the difference is taken from the condition of the cold weather, for which cause they lye hid in the Winter time. Now forasmuch as the Winter in Egypt is not usually above four months, therefore it is taken that they lie but four months, but if it be by accident of cold weather prolonged longer, then for the same cause the Crocodile is longer time in the earth. During the time they lie hid, they eat nothing, but sleep (as it is thought) immoveably, and when they come out again, they do not cast their skins as other Serpents do.

The tail of a Crocodile is his strongest part, and they never kill any beast or man, but first of all they strike him down and astonish him with their tails, and for this cause, the Egyptians by a Cro∣codiles tail do signifie death and darknesse. They devour both men and beasts if they finde them in * 1.180 their way, or neer the bankes of Nilus, wherein they abide, taking sometimes a calf from the Cow his Dam, and carrying it whole into the waters. And it appeareth by the pourtraiture of Neacles, that a Crocodile drew in an Asse into Nilus as he was drinking, and therefore the Dogs of Egypt by a kinde of natural instinct, do not drink but as they run, for fear of the Crocodiles: where-upon came the proverb, Ʋt Canis è Nilo bibit & fugit, as a Dog at one time drinketh and runneth by Nilus.

When they desire fishes, they put their heads out of the water as it were to sleep, and then sud∣denly when they espy a booty, they leap into the waters upon them and take them. After that they have eaten and are satisfied, then they turn to the land again; and as they lie gaping upon the earth, the little bird Trochilus maketh clean their teeth, and is satisfied by the remainders of the flesh stick∣ing upon them. It is also affirmed by Arnoldus, that it is fed with mud, but the holy Crocodile in the * 1.181 Provinte of Arsinoe, is fed with bread, flesh, wine sweet and hard, sod flesh and cakes, and such like things as the poor people bring unto it when they come to see it. When the Egyptians will write a * 1.182 man eating or at dinner, they paint a Crocodile gaping.

They are exceeding fruitful and prolifical, and therefore also in Hieroglyphicks they are made to signifie fruitfulnesse. They bring forth every year, and lay their egges in the earth or dry land. For during the space of theescore days they lay every day an Egge, and in the like space they are hatched into young ones, by sitting or lying upon them by course, the male one while, and the female another. The time of their hatching is in a moderate and temperate time, otherwise they * 1.183 perish and come to nothing, for extremity of heat spoyleth the egge, as the buds of some trees are burned and scorched off by the like occasion. The egge is not much greater then the egge of a Goose, and the young one out of the shell is of the same proportion. And so from such a small beginning doth this huge and monstrous Serpent grow to his great stature, the reason whereof (saith Aristotle) is, because it groweth all his life long even to the length of ten or more cubits. When it hath laid the egges, it carryeth them to the place where it shall be hatched, for by a natural pro∣vidence and forelight; it avoideth the waters of Nilus, and therefore ever layeth her egges beyond the compasse of her floods: by observation whereof, the people of Egypt know every year the in∣undation of Nilus before it happen. And in the measure of this place it is apparent, that this Beast * 1.184 is not indued only with a spirit of reason, but also with a fatidical or prophetical geographical deli∣neation, for so she placeth her egges in the brim or bank of the flood (before the flood cometh) that the water may cover the nest, but not her self that sitteth upon the egges. And the like to this is the building of the Beaver, as we have showed in due place before in the History of four-footed Beasts.

So soon as the young ones are hatched, they instantly fall into the depth of the water, but if they meet with Frog, Snail, or any other such thing fit for their meat, they do presently tear it in pieces, the dam biteth it with her mouth, as it were punishing the pusillanimity thereof, but if it hunt greater things, and be greedy, ravening, industrious and bloudy, that she maketh much of, and killing the other, nourisheth and tendereth this above measure: after the example of the wisest men, who love their children in judgement, fore-seeing their industrious inclination, and not in affection, without regard of worth, vertue, or merit. It is said by Philes, that after the egge is laid by the Cro∣codile, many times there is a cruel stinging Scorpion which cometh out thereof, and woundeth the Crocodile that laid it. To conclude, they never prosper but neer the waters, and they live threescore * 1.185 years, or the age of a mans life.

The nature of this beast is to be fearful, ravening, malitious, and treacherous in getting of his prey, the subtilty of whose spirit, is by some attributed to the thinnesse of his bloud, and by other to the hardnesse of his skin and hide. How it dealeth with her young ones, we have shewed already, as it were trying their nature whether they will degenerate or no, and the like things are reported of the Asps, Cancers, and Tortoyses of Egypt.

From hence came the conceit of Pietas Crocodili, the piety of the Crocodile. But as we have said, it is a fearful Serpent, abhorring all manner of noise, especially from the strained voyce of a man, and where he findeth himself valiantly assaulted, there also he is discouraged, and therefore Marcel∣linus saith of him, Audax Monstrum fugacibus, at ubi audaecem senserit timidissimum: An audacious Mon∣ster to them that run away, but most fearful where he findeth resistance.

Some have written, that the Crocodile runneth away from a man if he wink with his left eye, and * 1.186 look sted fastly upon him with his right eye, but if this be true, it is not to be attributed to the vertue of the right eye, but only to the rarenesse of sight, which is conspicuous to the Serpent from one eye. The greatest terrour unto Crocodiles, as both Seneca and Pliny affirm, are the Inhabitants of the Isle Tentyrus within Nilus; for those people make them run away with their voyces, and many times pursue and take them in snares. Of these people speaketh Solinus in this manner: There is a generation of men in the Isle Tentyrus within the waters of Nilus, which are of a most adverse nature to the Crocodile, dwelling also in the same place. And although their persons or presence be of small stature, yet herein is their courage admired, because at the sudden sight of a Crocodile they are no whit daunted: for one of these dare meet and provoke him to run away. They will also leap into the Rivers and swim after the Crocodile, and meeting with it, without fear cast themselves upon the beasts back, riding on him as upon a Horse. And if the beast lift up his head to bite him, when he gapeth they put into his mouth a wedge, holding it hard at both ends with both their hands, and so as it were with a bridle, lead, or rather drive them captive to the land, where with their noise they so terrifie them, that they make them cast up the bodies which they had swallowed into their bellies: and because of this antipathy in nature, the Crocodiles dare not come neer to this Island.

The like thing we have before in our general discourse of Serpents, shewed to be in the Indian Psyl∣li against the greatest Serpents. And Strabo also hath recorded, that at what time Crocodiles were brought to Rome, these Tentyrites followed and drove them. For whom there was a certain great pool or fish-pond assigned or walled about, except one passage for the beast to come out of the wa∣ter into the Sun-shine: and when the people came to see them, these Tentyrites with nets would draw them to the land, and put them back again into the water at their own pleasure. For they so hook them by their eyes, and bottom of their bellies, which are their tenderest parts, that like as Horses broken by their Riders, they yeeld unto them, and forget their strength in the presence of these their Conquerors.

Peter Martyr in his third Book of his Babylonian Legation, saith, that from the City Cair to the Sea, the Crocodiles are not so hurtful and violent as they are up the River Nilus into the land, and against the stream. For as you go further up the River, neer the mountain and hilly places, so shall you finde them more fierce, bloudy and unresistible, whereof the Inhabitants gave him many reasons. First, because that part of the River which is betwixt the City Cair and the Sea, is very full of all sorts of fishes, where by the beasts are so filled with devouring of them, that they list not come out of the water on the land to hunt after men or cattel, and therefore they are the lesse hurtful, for even the Lyon and Wolf do cease to kill and devour when their bellies are full. But sometimes the Cro∣codiles beneath the River, follow the gales or troups of fish up the River, like so many fisher-men, and then the Countrey Fisher-men inclose them in nets, and so destroy them. For there is a very great reward proposed by the law of the Countrey, to him that killeth a Crocodile of any great quanti∣ty; and therefore they grow not great, and by reason of their smalnesse are lesse adventurous. For so soon as a great Crocodile is discovered, there is such watch and care taken to interrupt and kill him for hope of the reward, that he cannot long escape alive.

Thirdly, the Crocodiles up the River, towards the Mountains, are more hurtful, because they are pressed with more hunger and famine, and more seldom come within the terror of men, wherefore they forsake the waters, and run up and down to seek preys to satisfie their hunger, which when they meet withall, they devour with an unresistible desire, forced and pressed forward by hunger, which breaketh stone walls. But most commonly when the River Nilus is lowest, and sunck down into the channel, then the Crocodiles in the water do grow most hungry, because the fish are gone away with the floods; and then the subtile beast will heal and cover himself over with sand or mud, and so lie the bank of the River, where he knoweth the women come to fetch water, or the cattel to drink, and when he espyeth his advantage, he suddenly taketh the woman by the hand that she taketh up water withall, and draweth her into the River, where he teareth her in pieces and eateth her. Is like sort dealeth he with Oxen, Cows, Asses, and other cattel. If hunger force him to the land, and he meet with a Camel, Horse, Asse, or such like beast, then with the force and blows of his tail he breaketh his legs, and so laying him flat on the earth, killeth and eateth him: for so great is the strength of a Crocodiles tail, that it hath been seen that one stroke thereof hath broken all the four legs of a beast at one blow.

There is also another peril by Crocodiles, for it is said that when Nilus falleth, and the water waxeth low, the Barks through want of winde, are fain by the Mariners to be tugged up

the stream with long lines and cords: the subtile Crocodile seeing the same, doth suddenly with his tail smite the same line with such force, that either he breaketh it, or by his forcible violence tumbleth the Mariner down into the water, whom he is ready to receive with open mouth before he can recover. Yea many times by means thereof the Bark it self so tettereth and reeleth, that the violent beast taketh a man out of it, or else clean over-turneth it, to the destruction of all that are in it.

Aelianus saith, that among the Ombitae which are in Arsinoe, the Crocodiles are harmlesse, and having several names when they are called, do put their heads out of the water and take meat gent∣ly, which meat is the head and garbage of such sacrifices as are brought thither. But in another place he writeth, that among the Ombitae or Coptitae, it is not safe for a man to fetch water from the River, or to wash their feet, or walk on the Rivers side, but with great caution and warinesse. For even those beasts which are most kindely used by men, do rage against their Benefactors, as namely the Crocodile, the Ichneumon, the Wilde-cats, and such like. And yet Plutarch in his Book Ʋtra ani∣malium, * 1.187 saith, that the Priests, by the custom of meat-giving, have made some of them so tame, that they will suffer their mouths and teeth to be cleansed by men. And it is further said, that during the seven Ceremonial days of the nativity of Apis, there is none of them that sheweth any wilde trick or cruel part, but as it were by compact betwixt them and the Priests, they lay aside all cruelty and rage during that time.

And therefore Cicero writeth most excellently, saying; Aegyptiorum morem quis ignoret? quorum im∣butaementes pravitatum erroribus, quamvis carnificinam potius subierint, quam ibim, aut aspidem, aut Crocodi∣l〈…〉〈…〉 violent. That is to say, Who is ignorant of the custom of the Egyptians? whose mindes are so sea∣soned and indued with erroneous wickednesse, that they had rather undergo any torment, then offer violence to an Ibis, an Asp, or a holy Crocodile. For in divers places, all these, and Cats also, were worshipped by the people, according to the saying of Juvenal:

Crocodilon adorat pars haec Aegypti, —Illa pavet saturam Serpentibus Ibim.

Which may be Englished thus;

This part of Egypt Crocodiles adore, That, the Ibis, fed with Serpents store.

But the reason of divine worship or honour given to the Crocodiles are worth the noting, that the diligent Reader may the better have some taste of that ancient blindenesse whereby our fore-fa∣thers were misted and seduced, to forsake the most glorious and ever-blessed principles of Divinity, for arguments of no weight.

First therefore the Idolatrous Priests thought there was some divine power in the Crocodile, be∣cause it wanted a tongue, for the Deity or Divine speech hath no need of a voyce to expresse his meaning, according to the saying of the Grecians, Kai di apsophon bainoon keleuthon kai dikes, ta thueta agrikata diken: For by a mute and silent way it ascendeth, and bringeth all things mortal to a vocal justice, which speaketh in action though not in in voyce even as all that is in the Crocodile, is action and not voyce.

Secondly, by reason of a certain thin smooth skin coming from the midst of his fore-head, * 1.188 wherewithall it covereth his eyes, so that when it is thought to be blinde, yet it seeth: even so is it with the Divine power, for even then when it is not seen, yet doth it see perfectly all mortal things.

Again, by their egges and nests they usually fore-shew the over-flowing of Nilus, to the infinite benefit of their Countrey wherein they live, for thereby the husband-men know when to till their land, and when not, when to sow and plant, and lead forth their flocks, and when not: which bene∣fit is also ascribed to Divinity, and therefore the Crocodile is honoured with divine power.

Again, it layeth threescore egges, and liveth threescore years, which number of threescore, was in ancient time the first dimension of heaven and heavenly things.

Cicero also speaking against this Egyptian vanity, saith, that they never consecrated a beast for a God, but for some apparent utility, as the Ibis for devouring of Serpents, and the Crocodile for being a terror to theeves: and therefore the Arabian and Lybian theeves durst not come over the River Nilus to rob the Egyptians for fear of the Crocodiles.

There is a tale in Diodorus Siculus of the original of a Crocodiles divine worship, which although it cannot be but fabulous, yet I have thought good to insert it in this place, to shew the vanity of su∣perstition and Idolatry. There was a King of Egypt called Minas, or as Herodotus calleth him Menes, who following his Hounds in hunting into a certain marish of Moeris, fell in with his Horse, and there stuck fast, none of his followers daring to come after him to release him, so that he had there perish∣ed, had not a Crocodile come and taken him up upon his back, and set him safe upon the dry land. For which miracle, the said King built there a City, and caused a Crocodile to be worshipped, which was called Sychus by all the Inhabitants of that City, and also gave all the said Marish of Moeris, for the sustenance of the same. It was nourished with bread, flesh, and Wine, Cakes, sod slesh, and sweet new Wine: so that when any man came to the Lake wherein it was kept, the Priests would presently call the beast out of the water, and being come to the land, one of them opened his mouth, and the other put in meat, delicacies, and Wine.

This Crocodile of Moeris, is the same that is called Arsinoe, and like to that at Thebes, about which they did hang jewels of gold, silver, and jems of ear-rings, bracelets, and such other things of price. When it dyed, they did season the body thereof with salt, and buryed it in the holy Tombes or bury∣ing Pots. The same also are called Ombitae, I mean the people of that Egypt which dwell in Arsinoe, and for the love of the Crocodiles, they abandon all manner of Hawks their enemies, inso∣much that many times they take them and hang them up in publique upon gallows for that purpose erected. And further, they keep certain days of triumphs like the Olympiades, and * 1.189 games of honour: and so far they were blinded with that superstition, that they thought themselves exceedingly blessed if they lost their children by them, and thought themselves much honoured, if they saw them with their eyes fetched out of the streets and playing places by Cro∣codiles.

Again, all the Egyptians hold opinion, that the Crocodile is a Divinator, which they prove by the testimony of Ptolomeus, who calling one of the sacred Crocodiles, which was the oldest and best of all, he would not answer him, and afterward offering him meat, he also refused it, whereat many wondered: and some of the Priests said, it was some prognostical sign either of the Kings death or his own, and so it fell out shortly after, for the same Crocodile dyed. As though a Swine might not as well be accounted divine, seeing it also refuseth all meat and provocation at the time of their sick∣nesse, and before death.

There is a City in Egypt called Apollinopolis, the City of Apollo, where the Inhabitants abhor and con∣demn the worship of Crocodiles, for when they take any of them they hang them up and beat them to death, notwithstanding their tears and cryings, and afterwards they eat them: but the reason of their hatred is, because Typhon their ancient enemy, was clothed with a Crocodiles shape. Others also say, the reason of their hatred is, because a Crocodile took away and devoured the daughter of Psam∣nites, and therefore they enjoyned all their posterity to hate Crocodiles.

To conclude this discourse of Crocodiles inclination, even the Egyptians themselves account a * 1.190 Crocodile a savage and cruel murthering Beast, as may appear by their Hieroglyphicks, for when they will decipher a mad man, they picture a Crocodile, who being put from his desired prey by forcible resistance, he presently rageth against himself. And they are often taught by lamentable experience, what fraud and malice to mankinde liveth in these Beasts, for they cover themselves * 1.191 under willows and green hollow banks, till some people come to the Waters side to draw and fetch water, and then suddenly, or ever they be aware, they are taken and drawn into the wa∣ter. And also for this purpose, because he knoweth that he is not able to over-take a man in his course or chase, he taketh a great deal of water in his mouth, and casteth it in the path-wayes, so that when they endevour to run from the Crocodile, they fall down in the slippery path, and are over-taken and destroyed by him. The common proverb also, Crocodili lachrymae, the Crocodiles tears, justifieth the treacherous nature of this Beast, for there are not many brute Beasts that can weep, but such is the nature of the Crocodile, that to get a man within his danger, he will sob, sigh; and weep, as though he were in extremity, but suddenly he destroyeth him. Others say, that the Crocodile weepeth after he hath devoured a man. Howsoever it be, it noteth the wretched nature of hypocri∣tical hearts, which before-hand will with faigned tears endevour to do mischief, or else after they have done it be outwardly sorry, as Judas was for the betraying of Christ, before he went and hanged himself.

The males of this kinde do love their females above all measure, yea even to jealousie, as may appear by this one History of P. Martyr. About the time that he was in those countries, there were certain Mariners which saw two Crocodiles together in carnal copulation upon the sands neer the River, from which the water was lately fallen into a certain Island of Nilus, the greedy Mari∣ners forsook their ship, and be took themselves to a long boat, and with great shouting, hollowing and crying, made towards them in very couragious manner: the male at the first assault fell ama∣zed, and greatly terrified ran away as fast as he could into the waters, leaving his female lying upon her back, (for when they ingender, the male turneth her upon her back, for by reason of the short∣nesse of her legs she cannot do it her self) so the Mariners finding her upon her back and not able to turn over her self, they easily slew her, and took her away with them. Soon after the male returned to the place to seek his female, but nor finding her, and perceiving bloud upon the sand, conje∣ctured truly that she was slain, wherefore he presently cast himself into the River of Nilus again, and in his rage swam stoutly against the stream untill he over-took the ship wherein his dead fe∣male was, which he presently set upon, lifting up himself and catching hold on the fides, would certainly have entered the same, had not the Mariners with all their force battered his head and hands with clubs and staves, until he was wearyed and forced to give over his enterprise, and so with great sighing and sobbing departed from them. By which relation it is most clear what natural affe∣ction they bear one to another, and how they choose out their fellows, as it were fit wives and hus∣bands for procreation.

And it is no wonder if they make much of one another, for besides themselves they have few friends in the world, except the Bird Trochilus and Swine, of whom I can say little, except this that followeth. As for the little Bird Trochilus, it affecteth and followeth them for the benefit of his own belly; for while the Crocodile greedily eateth, there sticketh fast in his teeth some part of his prey, which troubleth him very much, and many times ingendereth Worms, then the Beast to help himself taketh land, and lyeth gaping against the Sun-beams westward, the Bird perceiving it,

flyeth to the jaws of the Beast, and there first with a kinde of tickling-scratching, procureth (as it were) licence of the Crocodile to pull forth the Worms, and so eateth them all out, and clenseth the teeth throughly, for which cause the Beast is content to permit the Bird to go into his mouth. But when all is clensed, the ingrateful Crocodile endevoureth suddenly to shut his chaps together upon the Bird, and to devour his friend, like a cursed wretch which maketh no reckoning of friendship, * 1.192 but the turn served, requiteth good with evill. But Nature hath armed this little Bird with sharp thorns upon her head. so that while the Crocodile endevoureth to shut his chaps and close his mouth upon it, those sharp thorns prick him into his palate, so that full sore against his unkinde nature, he letteth her flye safe away. But whereas there be many kindes of Trochili, which are greedy of these Worms or clensings of the Crocodiles, some of them which have not thorns on their heads pay for it, for there being not offence to let the closing of the Crocodiles mouth, they must needs be de∣voured: and therefore this enforced amity betwixt him and the Crocodile, is only to be understood of the Cledororynchus, as it is called by Hermolaus.

There be some that affirm, that he destroyeth all without exception that thus come into his * 1.193 mouth, and othersome say he destroyeth none, but when he feeleth his mouth sufficiently clensed, he waggeth his upper chap, as it were to give warning of avoidance, and in favour of the good turn, to let the bird flie away at his own pleasure. Howbeit, the other and the former narration is more likely to be true, and more constantly affirmed by all good Authors except Plutarch. And Leo Afric. saith, that it was the constant and confident report of all Africa, that the Crocodile devoureth all for their love and kindenesse, except the Cledororynchi, which they cannot, by reason of the thorns upon their head.

That there is an amity and natural concord betwixt Swine and Crocodiles is also gathered, because * 1.194 they only among all other living four-footed Beasts, do without danger dwell, feed and inhabit upon the banks of Nilus, even in the midst of Crocodiles; and therefore it is probable that they are friends in nature. But oh how small a sum of friends hath this Beast, and how unworthy of love among all creatures, that never in nature hath but two, in heaven or earth, air or water, that will ad∣venture to come neer it, and one of these also, which is the best deserving, it devoureth and destroy∣eth if it get it within his danger.

Seeing the friends of it are so few, the enemies of it must needs be many, and therefore require * 1.195 a more large catalogue or story. In the first rank whereof cometh, (as worthy the first place) the Ichneumon, or Pharaohs-mouse, who rageth against their Egges and their persons, for it is certain that it hunteth with all sagacity of sense to finde out their nests, and having found them, it spoil∣eth, scattereth, breaketh and emptieth all their egges. They also watch the old ones asleep, and * 1.196 finding their mouths open against the beams of the Sun, suddenly enter into them, and being small, creep down their vast and large throats before they beware, and then putting the Crocodile to exquisite and intolerable torment, by eating their guts asunder, and so their soft bellies, while the Crocodile tumbleth to and fro sighing and weeping, now in the depth of water, now on the land, never resting till strength of nature faileth. For the incessant gnawing of the Ichneumon so provoketh her to seek her rest in the unrest of every part, herb, element, throws, throbs, rowl∣ings, tossings, mournings, but all in vain, for the enemy within her breatheth through her breath, and sporteth her self in the consumption of those vital parts, which waste and wear away by yeeld∣ing to unpacificable teeth, one after other, till she that crept in by stealth at the mouth, like a puny thief, come out at the belly like a Conqueror, through a passage opened by her own labour and industry, as we have also shewed at large in the story of Ichneumon. But whether it be true or no, that the Trochilus doth awake the sleeping Crocodile, when he seeth the Ichneumon lie in wait to enter into her, I leave it to the credit of Strabo the reporter, and to the discretion of the indiffer∣ent Reader.

Monkeys are also the haters of Crocodiles, as is shewed in the story, and lie in wait to dis∣cover, and if it were in their power to destroy them. The Scorpion also and the Crocodile are ene∣mies one to the other, and therefore when the Egyptians will describe the combat of two notable enemies, they paint a Crocodile and a Scorpion fighting together, for ever one of them killeth ano∣ther: but if they will decipher a speedy overthrow to ones enemy, then they picture a Crocodile; if a slow and slack victory, they picture a Scorpion. And as we have already shewed out of Philes, that out of the egges of Crocodiles, many times come Scorpions, which devour and destroy them that lay them.

Fishes also in their kinde are enemies to Crocodiles, the first place whereof belongeth to the most noble Dolphin. Of these Dolphins it is thought there be two kindes, one bred in Nilus, the other forrain and coming out of the Sea, both of them professed enemies to the Crocodile: for the first, it hath upon the back of it sharp thorny prickles or fins, as sharp as any spears point, which are well known to the fish that beareth them, as her armour and weapons against all adversaries. In the trust and confidence of these prickles, the Dolphin will allure and draw out the Crocodile from his den or lodging place, into the depth of the River, and there fight with him hand to hand. For the Dolphin as it knoweth his own armour and defence, like other Beasts and Fishes, so doth it know the weakest parts of his adversary, and where his advantage of wounding lyeth. Now, * 1.197 as we have said already, the belly of the Crocodile is weak, having but a thin skin, and pene∣trable with small force, wherefore when the Dolphin hath the Crocodile in the midst of the deep waters, like one afraid of the fight, underneath him he goeth, and with his sharp fins or

prickles on his back, giveth his weak and tender belly mortal wounds, whereby his vital spirits, with his guts and entrails, are quickly evacuated. The other Dolphins of the Sea being greater, are like∣wise armed with these prickles, and of purpose come out of the Sea into Nilus to bid battel to the Crocodiles.

When Bibillus (a worthy Roman) was Governor of Egypt, he affirmed that on a season the Dol∣phins * 1.198 and the Crocodiles met in the mouth of Nilus, and bade battel the one to the other, as it were for the soveraignty of the waters, and after that sharp combat, it was seen how the Dolphins by diving in the waters, did avoid the biting of the Crocodiles, and the Crocodiles dyed by strokes re∣ceived from the Dolphins upon their bellies. And when many of them were by this means as it were * 1.199 cut asunder, the residue betook themselves to flight, and ran away, giving way to the Dolphins. The Crocodiles do also fear to meddle with the Sea-hog, or Hog-fish, because of his bristles all about his head, which hurt him also when he cometh nigh him: or rather I suppose, as it is friend to the Swine of the earth, and holdeth with them a sympathy in nature, so it is unto the Swine of the water, and forbeareth one in the Sea, as it doth the other on the land.

There is likewise a certain wilde Ox or Bugil among the Parthians, which is an enemy to the Cro∣codile, for as Albertus writeth, if he finde or meet with a Crocodile out of the water, he is not only not afraid of him, but taketh heart and setteth upon him, and with the weight and violent agita∣tion of his body, treadeth him all to pieces: and no marvail, for all Beasts are enemies to the Cro∣codiles on the land, even as the Crocodile lyeth in wait to destroy all them in the water. Hawks are * 1.200 also enemies to Crocodiles, and especially the Ibis bird, so that if but a feather of the Ibis come up∣on the Crocodile by chance, or by direction of a mans hand, it maketh it immoveable and cannot stir. For which cause, when the Egyptians will write or decipher a ravening, greedy, idle-fellow, they paint a Crocodile, having an Ibis feather sticking in his head. And thus much for the enmity betwixt the Crocodiles and other living creatures.

It hath been seldom seen that Crocodiles were taken, yet it is said that men hunt them in the wa∣ters, for Pliny saith, that there is an assured perswasion, that with the gal & fat of a Water-adder, men are wonderfully holpen, and as it were armed against Crocodiles, and by it enabled to take and destroy them, especially when they carry also about them the herb Potamegeton. There is also a kinde of thorny wilde Bean growing in Egypt, which hath many sharp prickles upon the stalks, this is a great terrour to the Crocodile, for he is in great dread of his eyes, which are very tender and easie to be wounded. Therefore he avoideth their sight, being more unwilling to adventure upon a * 1.201 man that beareth them, or one of them, then he is to adventure upon a man in compleat Armour, and therefore all the people plant great store of these, and also bear them in their hands when they travail.

There be many who in the hunting and prosecuting of these Crocodiles, do neither give them∣selves to run away from them, nor once to turn aside out of their common path or road, but in a foolish hardinesse, give themselves to combat with the Beast, when they might very well avoid the danger, but many times it hapneth that they pay dearly for their rashnesse, and repent too late the too much reputation of their own manhood: for whiles with their spears and sharp weapons they think to pierce his sides, they are deceived, for there is no part of him penetrable except his belly, and that he keepeth safe enough from his enemies, blunting upon his scales (no lesse hard then plates of Iron) all the violence of their blows and sharpnesse of weapons, but clubs, beetles, and such like weapons are more irksome to him, when they be set on with strength, battering the scales to his bo∣dy, and giving him such knocks as doth dismay and astonish him. Indeed there is no great use of the * 1.202 taking of this Serpent, nor profit of merchandize cometh thereby, his skin and flesh yeelding no great respect in the world.

In ancient time they took them with hooks baited with flesh, or else inclosed them with nets as they do fishes, and now and then with a strong Iron instrument cast out a boat down in the water up∣on the head of the Crocodile. And among all other there is this one worthy to be related. The Hunter would take off the skin from a Swines back, and therewithal cover his hook, whereby he al∣lured * 1.203 and inticed the Serpent into the midst of the River, and there making it fast, he went afterward to the next watering place, and there holding another Hog, did beat and smite him, till he cryed ardently, with which voyce or cry, the Crocodile being moved, goeth presently to the bait and swal∣loweth it up, and maketh after the noise: at last, coming to the land, the Hunter with valiant cou∣rage and diligence, casteth mud and dirt into his eyes, and so blindeth him that he may oppresse and kill him with ease.

Leo Afric. relateth also this means or way to take Crocodiles: There be many Trees planted upon the banks of Nilus, unto one of these there is a long and strong rope tyed, and at the end of the same there is fastened a hook of a cubit long, and a finger in quantity: unto this hook for a bait is tyed a Ram or a Goat, which being set close to the River, and tormented with the hook upon which it is fastened, cryeth out amain, by hearing of whose voyce, the hunger-greedy Crocodile is raised out of his den, and invited as he thinketh to a rich prey, so he cometh (although it self of a trecherous nature, yet suspecteth not any other) and swalloweth the bait, in which he findeth a hook not to be digested. Then away he striveth to go, but the strength of the rope stayeth his journey, for as fast as the bait was to the rope and hook, so fast is he also ensnared and tyed unto it, which while he waveth and straineth to unloose and break, he wearyeth himself in vain. And to the intent that all his strength may be spent against the tree and the rope, the Hunters are at one end thereof, and

cause it to be cast to and fro, pulling it in, and now letting it go again, now terrifying the Beast with one noise and fear, and anon with another, so long as they perceive in him any spirit of mo∣ving or resistance: so being quieted, to him they come, and with clubs, spears, beetles, staves, and such manner of instruments, pierce through the most tenderest parts of his body and so destroy him.

Peter Martyr hath also other means of taking Crocodiles. Their nature is, that when they goe to the land to forrage and seek after a prey, they cannot return back again but by the same footsteps of their own which they left imprinted in the sand: whereupon, when the Countrey people per∣ceive these footsteps, instantly with all the hast they can make, they come with spades and mattocks and make a great ditch, and with boughs cover the same, so as the Serpent may not espy it, and up∣on the boughs they also again lay sand to avoid all occasion of deceit or suspicion of fraud at his return: then when all things are thus prepared, they hunt the Crocodile by the foot untill they finde him, then with noises of bells, pans, kettels, and such like things, they terrifie and make him return as fast as fear can make him run towards the waters again, and they follow him as neer as they can, until he falleth into the ditch, where they come all about him, and kill him with such instruments or weapons as they have prepared for him, and so being slain, they carry him to the great City Cair, where for their reward they receive ten pieces of gold, which amounteth to the value of ten nobles of our English coin.

There have been some brought into that City alive, as P. Martyr affirmeth, whereof one was as much as two Oxen and two Camels could bear and draw, and at the same time there was one taken by this devise before expressed, which had entered into a Village in Saetum neer Nilus, and swallowed up alive three young Infants sleeping in one Cradle, the said Infants scarcely dead were taken again out of his belly, and soon after when no more tokens of life appeared, they were all three buryed in a better and more proper grave of the earth. Then also there was another slain, and out of his belly was taken a whole Ram not digested, nor any part of him consumed, and the hand of a woman which was bitten or torn off from her body above the wrist, for there was upon the same a Bracelet of Brasse.

We do read that Crocodiles have been taken and brought alive to Rome. The first that ever * 1.204 brought them thither, was Marcus Scaurus, who in the games of his aedility, brought five forth and shewed them to the people in a great pond of water, (which he had provided only for that time) and afterward Heliogabalus and Antoninus Pius. The Indians have a kinde of Crocodile in Ganges, which hath a horn growing out of his nose like a Rhinocerot: unto this Beast they cast condemned men to be devoured, for in all their executions, they want not the help of men, seeing they are provided of Beasts to do the office of Hang-men.

Aurelius Festivus writeth, that Firmus a Tyrant of Egypt, being condemned to Nilus to be devoured by Crocodiles, beforehand bought a great quantity of the fat of Crocodiles, and so stripping him∣self stark naked, laid the same over his body, so he went among the Crocodiles and escaped death: for this savage Beast being deceived with the savour of its own nature, spared the man that had but so cunningly carryed it. And this is a wonderful work of Almighty GOD, that so order∣eth * 1.205 his actions in the nature of this Beast, that he beguileth the cruel nature of the living, by the tast and savour of the dead: howbeit some think that the water Crocodile is daunted with the savour of the fat from the land Crocodile, and the land Crocodile by the water again.

And some again say, that all venomous Beasts run away from the savour of the fat thereof; and * 1.206 therefore no marvail if it also be afraid, being venomous as well as any other. Wherefore the saying of Firmus was not to be attributed to any indulgence of the Crocodile toward their own kinde, but rather to a deadly antipathy reflecting themselves upon themselves, though not in shape and figure as the Cockatrice, yet in sense, savour, and rancknesse of their pestiferous humor.

The use of Crocodiles taken, is for their skin, flesh, caul and medicine arising out of it. Their * 1.207 skin as it is exceeding hard upon their backs while they are alive, so is it also when they are dead, for with that the common people make them better armour then coats of Mail, against Darts, Spear, or Shield, as is well known in all Egypt at this day. For the flesh of Crocodiles, it is also eaten among those people that do not worship it: as namely the people about Elephantina Apollinopolis. Notwithstanding by the Law of God, Levit. 11. it is accounted an unclean Beast, yet the tast there∣of * 1.208 being found pleasant, and the relish good, without respect of GOD or health, the common peo∣ple make use thereof.

The medicines arising out of it are also many. The first place belongeth to the caul, which hath moe benefits or vertues in it then can be expressed. The bloud of a Crocodile is held profitable for many things, and among other it is thought to cure the bitings of any Serpent. Also by anointing * 1.209 the eyes, it cureth both the dregs or spots of bloud in them, and also restoreth soundnesse and clear∣nesse to the sight, taking away all dulnesse or deadnesse from the eyes. And it is said, that if a man * 1.210 take the liquor which cometh from a piece of a Crocodile fryed, and anoint there withall his wound or harmed part, that then he shall be presently rid of all pain and torment. The skin both of the * 1.211 land and water Crocodile dryed into powder, and the same powder with Vinegar or Oyl, laid upon a part or member of the body, to be seared, cut off, or lanced, taketh away all sense and feeling of pain from the instrument in the action.

All the Egyptians do with the fat or sewet of a Crocodile anoint all them that be sick of Feavers•• for it hath the same operation which the fat of a Sea-dog or Dog-fish hath, and if those parts o, men and beasts which are hurt or wounded with Crocodiles teeth, be anointed with this fat, it also cureth them. Being concocted with water and Vinegar, and so rowled up and down in the mouth, * 1.212 it cureth the tooth-ach: and also it is outwardly applyed against the biting of Flies, Spiders, Worms, and such like, for this cause, as also because it is thought to cure Wens, bunches in the flesh, and old wounds. It is sold dear, and held pretious in Alcair. Scaliger writeth, that it cureth the Gangren. The canine teeth which are hollow, filled with Frankincense, and tyed to a man or wo∣man which hath the Tooth-ach, cureth them, if the party know not of the carrying them about: And so they write, that if the little stones which are in their belly be taken forth and so used, they work the same effect against Feavers. The dung is profitable against the falling off of the hair, and many such other things.

The biting of a Crocodile is very sharp, deep, and deadly, so that wheresoever he layeth his teeth, * 1.213 seldom or never followeth any cure. But yet the counsel of Physitians is, that so soon as the pati∣ent is wounded, he must be brought into a close chamber where are no windows, and there be kept without change of air, or admission of light, for the poyson of the Crocodile worketh by cold air and light; and therefore by the want of both is to be cured. But for remedy (if any be) they * 1.214 prescribe the same which is given for the cure of the biting of a mad Dog, or (as Avicen) the biting of a Dog not mad. But most proper is the dung of a man, the Fish Garum and Mysy pounded toge∣ther, and so applyed, or else the broth of salt sod flesh, and such other things as are vulgarly known to every Physitian: and therefore seeing we live in a countrey far from the annoyance of this Ser∣pent, I shall not need to blot any paper to expresse the cure of this poyson.

The Crocodile of Nilus only liveth on land and water, all other are contented with one element: * 1.215 the picture of the Crocodile was wont to be stamped upon coin, and the skin hanged up in many fa∣mous Cities of the world, for the admiration of the people, and there is one at this day at Paris in France.

Of the Arabian or Egyptian LAND CROCODILE.

[illustration]

THe figure of this Crocodile sheweth evidently the difference betwixt him and the other of Nilus; and beside it is neither so tall or long as is the other, the which proportioned Beast is only particular to Egypt and Arabia, and some because of his scaly head, legs, articles, and claws, have observed another difference in it from the former: yet in his nature, manner of living and preying upon other cattel, it differeth not from that of the water. The tail of this Crocodile is very sharp, and standeth up like the edges of wedges in bunches above the ground, wherewithal when he hath mounted himself up upon the back of a Beast, he beateth and striketh the beast most cruel∣ly, to make him go with his Rider to the place of his most fit execution, free from all rescue of his Heard-man or Pastor, or annoyance of passengers, where in most cruel and savage manner he tear∣eth the limbs and parts one from another till he be devoured. The Apothecaries of Italy have this Beast in their shops to be seen, and they call it Caudiverbera, that is, a Tail-bearer, for the reason aforesaid. And thus there being nothing in this Beasts nature different from the former, besides his figure, and that which I have already expressed, I will not trouble the Reader with any more Nar∣ration about it.

Of the LAND CROCODILE of Bresilia.

[illustration]

THe figure and proportion of this Serpent was altogether unknown in this part of the world, till of late our discoverers and Navigators brought one of them out of Bresilia. The length of it is about a fathom, and the breadth as much as ten fingers broad: the fore-legs have ten claws, five upon a foot, the hinder-legs eight, and both before and behinde they are of equal length. The tail exceeding long, far exceeding the quantity and proportion of his body, being marked all over with certain white and yellowish spots. The skin all covered with an equal, smooth and fine coloured scale, which in the midst of the belly are white, and greater then in other parts. It can abide no water, for a little poured into the mouth killed it, and after it had been two or three days dead, being brought to the fire, it moved and stirred again faintly, even as things do that lye a dying. It is not venomous nor hurtful to eat; and therefore is digged out of his cave by any body safely without danger.

Of the CROCODILE of the Earth called Scincus, a Scink.

[illustration]

THere have been some that have reckoned Scinks and Lizards among Worms, but as the Greek words Expeix, and Scolex, differ in most apparent dialect, and signification, and therefore it is an opinion not worth the confuting, for there are no Worms of this quantity. But for the better explication of the nature of this Beast, because some have taken it for one kinde, and some for another: some for a Crocodile, and others for a Beast like a Crocodile; we are to know that there are three kindes of Crocodiles: the first is a water Beast or Serpent, and vulgarly termed a Crocodile, the second is a Scink or a Crocodile of the earth, which is in all parts like that of the water, except in his colour and thicknesse of his skin: the third kinde of Croco∣dile is unknown to us at this day, yet Pliny and others make mention of it, and describe it to be a beast having his scales like a Gorgon, growing or turning to his head from the tail, and not as others do, from the head to the tail.

The Grecians call this Beast Skigkot, and some unlearned Apothecaries Stincus, and Myrepsus Sigk. It is also called Kikaeros, and the Hebrew, Koach, doth more properly signifie this Beast, then any other Crocodile or Chamaeleon, or Lizard. Some of the Hebriws do expound Zab for a Scink; and from thence the Chaldees and the Arabians have their Deo and Aldab, turning Z into D: So, we read Guaril and Adhaya, for a Scink or Crocodile of the earth: Alarbian is also for the same Serpent among the Arabians, Balecola, and Ball••••ar•• Sehanchur, and Asehanchur, and Askincor, and Scerantum, and Nudalep, and Nudalepi, are all of them Synonymaes, or rather corrupted words for this Crocodile of the earth. But there are at this day certain Ps〈…〉〈…〉scink: set out to be seen and sold by Apothecaries, that are nothing else but a kinde of water Lizard: but the true difference is be∣twixt them, that these water Lizards are venomous but this is not, and neither living in the Northern parts of the world, nor yet in the water: and so much shall suffice for the name and first entrance into this Serpents History.

They are brought out of the Eastern Countries or out of Egypt: yet the Monks of Mesuen affirm, that they had seen Scinks or Crocodiles of the earth about Rome. Sylvaticus and Platearius in Apulia. But howsoever their affections may lead them to conjecture of this Serpent, I rather believe that it is an African beast, and seldom found in Asia or Europe. They love the banks of Nilus, although they dare not enter the water, and for this cause some have thought (but untruly) that when the Crocodile layeth her egges in the water, the young is there also engendered and hatched, and is a Crocodile of the water, but if they lay their egges on the dry land, from thence cometh the Scink or Crocodile of the earth. This folly is evidently refuted, because that they never say egs in the but all upon the dry land. They are found (as I have said before) in Egypt, and also in Africk, and among the Lydians of Mauritania, otherwise called Lodya, or rather Lybia, among the Pastoral or Plow-men Africans; among the Arabians, and neer the Red-sea, for all those at this day sold at Venice, are brought from those parts. The greatest in the world are in India, (as Cardan teacheth) who are in all things like Lizards, saving in their excrements, which smell or savour more strongly, and generally the difference of their quantity ariseth from the countrey which they inhabit, for in the hotter and moister countrey they are greater, in the hotter dryer Region they are smaller, and ge∣nerally they exceed not two or three cubits in length, with an answerable proportionable body, which is thus described.

There be certain crosse lines which come along the back one by one, somewhat white, and of a dusky colour, and those that be dusky have also in them some white spots. The upper part of the neck is very dusky, the head and the tail are more white, the feet and all the neather part of the breast and belly are white, with appearance upon them of some scales, or rather the skin figured in the proportion of scales: upon either feet they have five distinct fingers or claws, the length of their legs is a thumb and a half: that is, three inches, the tail two fingers long, the body six, so that the whole length from the head to the tip of the tail, (which is first thick, and then very small at the end) is about eight fingers. When they have taken them they bowel them, and fill their bo∣dies with Sugar, and Silk of Wooll, and so they sell them for a reasonable price. That which I have written of their length of eight fingers, is not so to be understood, as though they never ex∣ceeded or came short of that proportion: for sometimes they are brought into these parts of the World twenty or four and twenty fingers long, sometimes again not above five or six fingers long.

When they lay their Egges, they commit them to the earth, even as the Crocodiles of the water * 1.216 do. They live upon the most odoriferous flowers, and therefore is his flesh so sweet, and his dung or excrements odoriferous. They are enemies to Bees, and live much about Hives, insomuch as some have thought they did lay their Egges in Hives, and there hatch their young ones: But the oc∣casion of this error was, that they saw young ones brought by their parents into some Hive, to feed upon the labouring Bee. For the compassing of their desire they make meal of any tree, which they have ground in the Mill of their own mouths, and that they mix with black Hellebore juyce, or with the liquor of Mallows, this meal so tempered they lay before the Hives, whereof assoon as the Bees tast, they die, and then cometh the Crocodile with her young ones, and lick them up; and beside Bees, I do not read they are hurtful to any. The Indians have a little Beast about the quantity of a little Dog, which they call Phattage, very like to a Scink or Crocodile of the earth, having sharp * 1.217 scales, as cutting as a saw.

There is some hurt by this beast unto men, for which cause I may justly reckon it among the ve∣nomous, * 1.218 for if it chance to bite any man, if the wounded man falleth into a Fever before he make wa∣ter, he dyeth for it, but if he first make water, the beast dyeth and the man escapeth.

It is thought that it containeth a kinde of natural magick, witch-craft, or sorcery; and therefore they say it hath a stupifying power, changing the minde from love to hatred, and from hatred to love again. The powder of this Serpent drunk in Wine, if it stir venereous lust, it hurteth the nerves and sinews. There be certain magical devises raised out of this Serpent which are not worth the wri∣ting, as not having in them any dram of wit, learning, or truth; and therefore I will not trouble the Reader with them, but follow on the conclusion of this Crocodiles story in the Narration of the medicinal vertues, which are far moe and more operative then those in the former Crocodile, for I think Almighty GOD blesseth meeknesse and innocency with excesse of grace in men and beasts, as may be seen in these two kindes of Crocodiles, the dung and excrement of the one, being more worth then the body of the other, through harmlesse innocency.

The body of this Serpent to be dryed, after it hath lyen long in Salt, and to be preserved in Nose-wort, as Ruellius and Marcellus write: (but truth is, there is no need of Salt where Nosewort is ap∣plyed, because the Acrimony of this hearb doth easily dry up the moisture of this beast, keeping Worms from breeding in it.) With the powder thus prepared, venereous men stir up their lusts. Mi∣thridate is called Diascncu, because it is compounded of the Scink or Crocodile of the earth, and it containeth in it a most noble Antidote against all poysons. Galen had an Antidote against Scorpions, which among other things containeth in it the flesh of a Crocodile of the earth, wherewithall he cured all them that had been stung with Scorpions in Lybia. It is also good against the bitings of mad beasts, and pleurisies; against poysoned Honey, or the crudity and loathing that cometh in the sto∣mack by eating of sound Honey: It is profitable against empoysoned Arrows or Darts, being taken immediately before or after the wound, as Apelles hath observed.

Screpio did make a medicine compounded of the dung of this Crocodile, and applyed the same against the Falling-sicknesse. Of the body of this Scink, except the head and feet being sod or rosted, and eaten by them that have the Sc〈…〉〈…〉, and old cough (especially children,) or the pain of the loins, giveth them much ease. They are also mixed with medicines against the pain of the feet, as Galen did for Amarantus the Grammarian. They are also good in medicine against the coldnesse of the sinews. This beast is very hot, and therefore increaseth the seed of man, and provoketh lust; and for this purpose the greatest and fattest, and such a one as is taken in the Spring time, when they burn in lust for copulation, is preferred. But this is not to be meant of the fleshy parts, but only of those parts that are about the reins, if a man drink thereof the weight of a groat in Wine af∣terwards, for the alaying of the heat thereof, the Physitians do prescribe a decoction of Len∣tiles with Honey, and the seed of Lettice drunk in Water. The snout of this Crocodile with the feet drunk in white Wine, hath the same operation: but we have shewed already, that these parts are to be cut off and thrown away, because if there be any venom in the beast it lyeth in them.

A perfume being made of the body and intrails of this Crocodile under the womb of a woman labouring with childe, is thought to yeeld much help, for her safe, speedy, and easie travail, or flocks of Wool perfumed therewith, and laid to her belly. But it is the part of good Physitians to be wary in giving of medicines for stirring up of lust in any, except in marryed persons, and then also when they are young, to procure a lawful issue and posterity into the world 〈◊〉〈◊〉 otherwise they shall both decay the body, for all violent helps of carnal copulation, do in the end prove detriments to nature, if they continue any time, and also they are hurtful to the Soul, when not only the unna∣tural desire of lust, but also the intemperate pleasure of sin is increased thereby; and that is a mi∣serable cure, which killeth the Soul to help one part of the body. Besides all kindes of medicines for this purpose, (amongst which this Crocodile is the chief) have their peculiar venom, and when they are ministred, either they have no effect at all through age or overmuch impotency, or else they work too violently, which is most dangerous, or some one hurt or other followeth the poyson: and so I will leave the prosecution of this part.

The dust of the skin of this Crocodile being anointed with Vinegar or Oyl upon any part or member which is to be cut off, taketh away the sense of pain in the time of execution. The bloud is good for the eyes, and taketh away the filthy skin of the body, with the spots and burls in the face, restoring the first, true, native, and lively colour. The fat taketh away the pain in the reins, and causeth a distillation of the seed of man, yet this fat touching the hair of a man, maketh it to fall off; and a man anointed herewith, is safe from the annoyance of Crocodiles, although they play with him. It also cureth the bitings of Crocodiles; the instillation of this Crocodile, folded up in the Wooll of a black Sheep of the first birth, and wherein is no other colour, hath power to drive a quartane Ague. And Rhasis saith, that it being hung over the head of a woman in travail keepeth her from delivery. In the gall of this Serpent there is a power against the falling off of the hair, especially if the medicine be made of the roots of Beets to neese withall; and besides, the eyes be∣ing anointed therewith, and with Honey, there is nothing more profitable against suffusions. The stones and reins have power to provoke generation; and Aetius prescribeth an Antidote to be made of the tail of this beast, against the Gout.

Great is the vertue of the dung or excrement of this Serpent, if the same could be easily found, but while it is sought for, it loseth the vertue. It is called Crocodillia, and is profitable to give a good colour to womens faces, that is the best which is whitest, short, and not heavy, feeling like leaven betwixt the fingers, that is, smelling somewhat sharp like leaven.

It is adulterated with meal, chalk, white-earth, or painting but is is discerned by the heavinesse. The reason of the vertue of this is, because it feedeth upon the sweetest and best smelling herbs, whereby it cometh to passe, that it doth not only smell fragrantly, but also contain in it many ex∣cellent vertues. First therefore it is good for the comelinesse of the face, to give colour to it, ac∣cording to the saying of Horace: Colorque ster••••re fucatus Crocodili: A colour in-grained with the dang of a Crocodile: and for this cause also is the verse of Ovid, Nigrior ad Phati•• confuge piscis opem: That, is, The black Woman goeth to crave help of the Fish Pharius, to become more beautiful; for by the fish Pharius is understood a Crocodile. As some think, eight grains of this dung, or rather the weight of eight groats, with half so much Mustard-seed and Vinegar, cureth the falling off of the hair. Arnoldus doth prescribe a composition of the dung and Cantharides, for the regenerating and bringing again of hair that is decayed. If a perfume hereof he made and infused by a Tunnel into the holes of Serpents, it will drive them away, by reason of the sharp and leavenish savour thereof.

Tralianus maketh a medicine thereof for an Eye-salve against the whitenesse and bloud-eyes. It is good also against dimnesse and suffusions, being anointed with the juyce of Leeks: and to con∣clude, it is drunk in sweet Wine and Vinegar, against the Falling-sicknesse, and also being applyed unto women, stirreth up their monthly courses. And thus much shall suffice for the story of the Crocodile.

Of the DART.

[illustration]

AMong the divers kindes of Serpents, there is one of special note, which the Graecians call Acon∣tia. The Latines, Jaculares, or Jaculi, or Sagitta, a Dart or Arrow. The Graecians at this day Saetta. The Turks, Orchilanne: In Calabria and Sicilia, Saettone, and of the Germans, Ein schossz oder angelsch lang. The reason of this name is taken from his swift leaping upon a man to wound and kill him; and therefore the Poets say, Jaculi{que} volucres, speaking of these kindes of Serpents. Al∣bertus and Avicen also calleth them Cafezati, and Cafezaci, Altararat, Acoran, and Altinanti.

The manner of this Serpent is to get up into trees or hedges, and from thence to flie like an Ar∣row upon the upper parts of men, and so to sting, bite, and kill them: and of this kinde it is thought that was, which came upon the hand of the Apostle Paul, whereof the Poet writeth;

Ecceprocul saevus sterilis derobore trunci Torsit, & immisit (Jaculum vocat Africa) Serpens: Perque caput Pauli transactaque tempora fugit. Nil ibi virus agit: rapuit cum vulnere fatum, Deprensum est, quae funda rotat, quàm lenta volarent, Quàm segnis Scythicae strideret arundinis aer.

In English thus;

Lo•• from afar, a cruel Serpent from an Oke Came flying like a Dart, in Africa the same A Dart is cold, the head and temples stroke Of Paul, by winding spires to work his bane: But nothing could the poyson there avail, For with the wound he put away his death Faster then swift est flye, or turning ball, Or Scythian reed remov'd with windy breath.

This kinde of Serpent is for the most part in Lybia, in Rhodes, in Lemnus, in Italy, Calabria, and Si∣cilia, and in many of the Northern Countries, and also in Germany, whereof Gesner telleth this story * 1.219 following. There is neer the Coasts of Zurick a River called Glat, and a Village or Town upon that River Glatfelden. Near this River, as a poor man was gathering wood, there was a Serpent of some three or four foot long, which from a tree endevoured to leap upon the poor man, by gathering his body together, (as it were into four spires or risings like half hoops) the man seeing it, left his sack and ran away: neverthelesse, the Serpent leaped after him at the least sixteen or seventeen foot, but yet for that time he last turned about him, and not seeing the Serpent to follow him, gathered cou∣rage and comfort, and would come back again for his sack that he had left behinde him. The crafty Serpent expecting so much, had set himself again in another tree, and privily lay till the man came for his sack, and then ere he was aware came flying at him as he did before, and presently winded about his left arm; all his body except his tail hung down, and his neck which he held up hissing in the mans face: the man having no sleeve on his arm except his shirt, yet did the Serpent so presse the skin and flesh, that the circles of his winding spires and prints of his body appeared therein after he was taken off, yet did he not bite the man, for the poor Countrey fellow did presently with his other hand take him by head and cast him away, notwithstanding he had so folded himself about his arm: shortly after that arm began to grow mattery, and all the flesh to the bone consumed, yet was all the rotten putrified envenomed flesh and substance, by the skill of a worthy learned Physitian taken away, and as good flesh brought in the room thereof as ever was before; yet was the man every year prescribed to let that arm bleed, and then issued forth black thick bloud: some of the wounds or rather scars, of the poyson outwardly remaining.

In the Northern parts they leap ten foot at a time, first gathering themselves into the similitudes * 1.220 of Bows or half hoopes, and then fight with those that they would devour, making many times a noise among the herbs or flowers, which are parched or withered by the Sun; and therefore by the bounty of GOD in nature, their own noise bewrayeth them to their suspitious adversaries, and so many times are avoided in safety. Like unto these are certain in Hungary, (as Johannes Vitus reported unto Gesner,) whose bodies of an equal crassitude or thicknesse, so as they appear without tails, being for that purpose called Decurtati, Curtails, these in the same manner do leap upon men as these Darters do, but they are very short, seldom exceeding the length of two hands breadth.

There is some difference, among Authors about the nature of this Serpent: for Aelianus con∣foundeth it with the Snake of the Earth, called Chersydrus, and saith it liveth sometime in the wa∣ter, and sometime on the land, lying in wait to destroy all living creatures. And (he saith) it useth this fraud, it ever lyeth hid in secret neer the high-ways, and many times climbeth up into trees where it roundeth it self round into a circle, and hideth his head within the folds of his own body, so soon as ever it espyeth a Passenger, either a Man or Beast, it leapeth upon him as swift as a Dart flyeth. For it is able to leap twenty cubits space, and so lighting upon the Man or Beast, sticketh fast unto it without falling off of his own accord, until they fall down dead.

But herein Aelianus seemeth to be deceived, because he maketh but one Serpent of twain: namely, this Dart and the Land-snake, which are most apparently different in nature, kinde, and quality.

Aetius also confoundeth this Serpent with the Millet-serpent, called Cenchrites, and saith it is of the quantity of two cubits, great on the head, and the fore-part smaller at the tail, being of a greenish colour. And he saith further, that at such time as the Millet-seed groweth and flourisheth, this Ser∣pent is most strong and hurtful, and so with the residue he agreeth with Aelianus, but herein he is also deceived, writing by hear-say as himself confesseth, and therefore it is more safe for us to have re∣course to some eye-witnesse for the description of this Serpent, then to stand upon the opinions of them which write by the relation of others.

Bellonius faith, that he saw one of these in Rhodes, being full of small round black spots, not greater then the seeds of Lentiles, every one having a round circle about him like an eye, after such a fashion as is to be seen in the little Fish called the Torpedo. In length it exceedeth not three palms, and in big∣nesse no greater then the little finger. It was of an Ash-colour, coming neer to the whitenesse of milk, but under the belly it was altogether white: upon the back it had scales, but upon the belly a thin skin, as in all other Serpents.

The upper part of the back was somewhat black, having two black lines in the middle, which be∣gin at the head, and so are drawn along the whole body to the tail. As for the Cafezati, and Altera∣tati or Altinatyri, those are red Serpents, (as Avicen saith) which are but small in quantity, yet as deep and deadly in poyson as in any other, for they hurt in the same manner that these Darts do. Some of them do so wound with their poyson, as the afflicted person dyeth incontinent without sense or pain: Some again die by languishing pain after many hopes of recovery, losing life. Among all the people of the World, the Sabeans are most annoyed with this kinde of red Serpents; for they have many odoriferous and sweet smelling Woods, in the which these Serpents do abound, but such is their rage and hatred against men, that they leap upon them and wound them deadly, whensoever they come within their compasse. And surely if it be lawful to conjecture what kinde of Serpents those were, which in the Scripture are called fiery Serpents, and did sting the Israelites to death in the Wildernesse, until the Brazen Serpent was erected for their cure; among all the Serpents in the world, that kinde of pain and death can be ascribed to none more properly then to these Cafezati, or Red-dart-serpents.

For first the Wildernesse which was the place wherein they annoyed the people, doth very well agree to their habitation. Secondly, those fiery Serpents are so called by figure, not that they were fiery, but as all Writers do agree, either because they were red like fire; or else because the pain which they inflicted, did burn like fire, or rather for both these causes together which are joyntly and severally found in these red Serpents; and therefore I will conclude for my opinion, that these Serpents (as the highest poyson in nature) were sent by GOD to afflict the sinning Israelites, whose poyson was uncurable, except by Divine miracle.

M••••thi••lus also telleth a story of a Shepheard which was slain in Italy by one of these, as he was sleeping in the heat of the day under the shadow of a tree, his fellow Shepheards being not far off looking to their flocks, suddenly there came one of these Dart-serpents out of the tree, and wounded him upon his left pap, at the biting whereof the man awaked and cryed out, and so dyed inconti∣nently: his fellow Shepheards hearing this noise, came unto him to see what he ailed, and found him dead, with a Serpent upon his breast; now knowing what kinde of Serpent this was, they forsook their flocks and ran away for fear.

The cure of this Serpents biting, if there be any at all, is the same which cureth the Vipers, as Ae∣tius and Avicen writeth, and therefore I will not relate it in this place. The gall of this Beast mixed with the Scythian Stone, yeeldeth a very good Eye-salve. The which gall lyeth betwixt the back and the liver: And thus much shall suffice for this Serpent.

Of the DIPSAS.

THis Dipsas hath many names from many occasions: First Dipsas in Greek signifieth thirst, as Sitis doth in Latine, and thereof also it is called Situla, because whosoever is wounded by this Serpent dyeth. It is also called by some Prester; and by some Causon, because it setteth the whole body on fire: but we shall shew afterwards, that the Prester is a different Serpent from this. It is called likewise Melanurus, because of his black tail, and Ammoatis, because it lyeth in the sand, and there hurteth a man. It is not therefore unfitly defined by Avicen, to be

Vipera sitim faciens, that is, A Viper causing thirst, and therefore Ovid sporting at an old drunken woman named Lena, calleth her Dipsas in these verses;

Est quaedam nomine Dipsas anus, Ex re noniex habet, nigri non illa parentem Memnonis in roseis sobria vidit equis.

In English thus;

There is a woman old, which Dipsas may be hight, And not without some cause, thirsty she ever is, For never Memnons sire, all black and seldom bright, Did she in water sweet behold in sobernesse.

They live for the most part neer the waters, and in salt marishy places: whereupon Lucan said:

—Stant in margine siccae Aspides, & mediis sitiebant Dipsades undis.

That is to say;

Ʋpon pits brink dry Aspes there stood, And Dipsads thirst in midst of water flo••d.

It is called Torrida Dipsat, and Arida Dipsas, because of the perpetual thirst, and therefore the Egyptians when they will signifie thirst, do picture a Dipsas: whereupon Lucianus relateth this story, there is (saith he) a statue or monument upon a Grave, right over against the great Syrtes betwixt Sillya and Egypt, with this Epigram:

Talia passus erat quoque Tantalus Aethiope ortus, Qui nullo potuit fonte levare sitim. Tale nec è Danao natas implere puellas Assiduis undis vas potuisse reor.

That is to say;

Such Tantalus indured in Aethiope bred, Which never could by water quench his thirst, Nor could the Grecian Maids with water sped, That with dayly pourings till the vessel curst.

The statue was the picture of a man like unto Tantalus, standing in the midst of a water ready to drink, by drawing in of the water, about whose foot was folded a Dipsas: close by stood certain women bringing water, and pouring it into him to make it run into his mouth; besides, there were certain Egges as it were of Estriches lay pictured beside them, such as the Garamants in Ly∣bia seek after. For it is reported by Lucianus, that the people of that Countrey do earnestly seek after the Estriches Egges upon the sands, not only to eat the meat that is in them, but also to make sundry vessels or instruments of the shell, and among other things they make Caps of them. Near unto these Egges do these treacherous Serpents lie in wait, and so while the poor Countrey man cometh to seek for meat, suddenly he leapeth upon him, and giveth him a mortal wound.

Alciatus hath an Embleme, which he seemeth to have translated out of Greek from Antipater Sidonius, of a Falconer, which while he was looking up after Birds for meat for his Hawk, suddenly a Dipsas came behinde him and stung him to death. The title of his Embleme is, Qui alta contempla∣tur cadere, he that looketh high may fall, and the Embleme it self is this that followeth:

Dum turdos visco, pedica dum fallit alaudas, Et jacta altivolam figit arundo gruem, Dipsada non prudens auceps pede perculit, ultrix Illa mali, emissum virus ab ore jacit. Sic obit, extento qui sidera respicit arcu, Securus fati quod jacet ante pedes.

Which may be thus Englished;

Whiles Thrush with line, and Lark deceived with net, And Crane high flying pierced with force of reed, By Falconer was: behold a Dipsas on the foot did set, As if it would revenge his bloudy foul misdeed, For poyson out of mouth it cast, and bit his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Whereof he dyed, like Birds by him deceived, Whiles bending bow alost unto the stars did look, Saw not his fate below, which him of life bereaved.

This Dipsas is inferior in quantity unto a Viper, but yet killeth by poyson, much more speedily, according to these verses;

Exiguae similis spectatur Dipsas echidnae, Sed festina magis mors ictus occupat aegros. Parva & lurida cui circa ultima cauda nigrescit.

That is to say;

This Dipsas like unto the Viper small, But kills by stroke with greater pain and speed, Whose tail at end is soft and black withall, That as your death avoid, with careful heed.

It is but a short Serpent, and so small (as Arnoldus writeth,) it killeth before it be espyed, the length of it not past a cubit, the fore-part being very thick, except the head which is small, and so backward it groweth smaller and smaller: the tail being exceeding little, the colour of the fore-part somewhat white, but set over with black and yellow spots, the tail very black. Galen writeth, that the ancient Marsi which were appointed for hunting Serpents and Vipers about Rome, did tell him that there was no means outwardly to distinguish betwixt the Viper and the Dipsas, except in the place of their abode, for the Dipsas (he saith) keepeth in the salt places; and therefore the nature thereof is more fiery, but the Vipers keep in the dryer Countries, wherefore there are not many of the Dipsades in Italy, because of the moistnesse of that Countrey, but in Lybia, where there are great store of salt marishes. As we have said already, a man or beast wounded with this Serpent, is afflicted with intolerable thirst, insomuch as it is easier for him to break his belly, then to quench his thirst with drinking, always gaping like a Bull, casteth himself down into the water, and maketh no spare of the cold liquor, but continually sucketh it in till either the belly break, or the poyson drive out the life, by overcoming the vital spirits. To conclude, beside all the sym∣ptomes which follow the biting of Vipers, which are common to this Serpent, this also followeth them, that the party afflicted can neither make water, vomit, nor sweat, so that they perish by one of these two ways; first either they are burned up by the heat of the poyson, if they come not at water to drink, or else if they come by water, they are so unsatiable, that their bellies first swell above measure, and soon break about their privy parts. To conclude, all the affections which follow the thick poyson of this Serpent are excellently described by Lucan in these verses following;

Signiferum juvenem Tyrrheni sanguinis Aulum Torta capu•• retrò Dipsas calcata momor dit. Vix dolor aut sensus dentis fuit: ipsaque leti Frons caret invidia: nec quicquam plaga minatur. Ecce subit virus tacitum, carpitque medullas Ignis edax, calidaque incendit viscera tabe. Ebibit humorem circum vitalia fusum Pestis, & in sicco linguam torrere palato Coepit, def••ssos iret qui sudor in artus Non fuit, atque oculos lachrymarum vena resugit. Non decus imperii, non moesti jura Catonis Ardentem tenuere virum, quin spargere signa Auderet, totisque furens exquireret agris, Quas poscebat aquas, sitiens in corde venenum. Ille vel in Tanaim missus, Rhodanumque Padumque, Arderet, Nilumque bibens per rura vagantem: Accessit morti Libyae: fatique minorem Famam Dipsas habet teriis adjuta perustis. Scrutatur venas penitus squallentis arenae: Nunc redit ad Syrtes & fluctus accipit ore: Aequoreusque placet sed non & sufficit humor. Nec sentit fatique genus, mortemque veneni: Sed putat esse sitim: ferroque aperire tumentes Sustinuit venas, atque os implere cruore. Lucan. lib. 9.

In English thus;

Tyr••henian Aulus, the ancient-bearer young, Was bit by Dipsas, turning head to heel, No pain or sense of's teeth appear'd, though poyson strong, Death doth not frown, the man no harm did feel, But loe, she poyson takes the marrow, and eating fire Burning the bowels ••arm till all consumed, Drinking up the humor about the vital spire, And in dry palat was the tongue up burned. There was no sweat the sinews to refresh, And tears fled from the vein that feeds the eyes, Then Catoes law, nor Empires honor fresh, This fiery youth could hold: but down the streamer flies, And like a mad man about the fields he runs, Poysons force in heart did waters crave: Though unto Tanais, Rhodanus, Padus he comes, Or Nilus: yet all too little for his heat to have. But dry was death, as though the Dipsas force Were not enough, but holp by heat of earth, Then doth he search the sands: but no remorse, To Syrtes floud he hies, his mouth of them he filleth, Salt water pleaseth, but it cannot suffice, Nor knew he fate, or this kinde venoms death, But thought it thirst, and seeing his veins arise Them cut, which bloud stopt mouth and breath.

The signes of death following the biting of this Serpent, are extreme drought and inflamation both of the inward and outward parts, so that outwardly the parts are as dry as Parchment, or as a skin set against the fire, which cometh to passe by adustion and commutation of the bloud, into the nature of the poyson. For this cause many of the ancients have thought it to be incurable; and there∣fore were ignorant of the proper medicines, practising only common medicines prescribed against Vipers: but this is generally observed, that if once the belly begin to break, there can be no cure but death. First therefore they use scarification, and make ustion in the body, cutting off the member wounded. If it be in the extremity, they lay also playsters unto it, as Triacle, li∣quid Pitch with Oyl, Hens cut asunder alive, and so laid to hot, or else the leaves of Purslain beaten in Vinegar, Barley meal, Bramble leaves pounded with Honey, also Plantain, Hysop, white Garlick, Leeks, Rue and Nettles. Then must the government of their bodies be no lesse looked unto; first, that they be kept from all sharp and salt meats, then, that they be made continually to drink Oyl, to procure vomit, and with their vomits which they cast out of their stomach, to give them glysters; that so the waters may be drawn to their lower parts. Besides,

some take medicines out of Fishes, especially such as are salt, and the leaves, bark, or sprigs of Lau∣rel: and to conclude, there is nothing better then Triacle compounded of Vipers flesh. And thus much for the Dipsas.

Of the DOUBLE-HEAD.

BEcause the Grecians call this Serpent Amphisbaina, and the Latines from thence Amphisbaena, be∣cause it goeth both ways, as if it had two heads and no tail: and for this purpose it is never seen to turn his body, as it were turn about his head. When it hath a purpose to avoid that thing which it feareth, or wherewithal it is offended, he doth but only change his course backward as he went forward; so that it is as happy as Lynceus, whom the Poets faign to be very quick-sighted, or as those Monsters which are said to have eyes in their backs, or rather like to Janus, which is said to have two faces, one forward, and another backward, and therefore I have called it Double-head, I trust fitly enough to expesse the Greek word, although compounded of two words together, for so is the Greek word also, which the French do expresse by a like compounded word, Double-marcheur, that is, going two ways. It is likewise called Ankesime, Alchismus, and Amphisilene. And thus much may suffice for the name.

It is said that this Serpent is found in the Island Lemnus, but among the Germans it is unknown. There is some question whether it may be said to have two heads or no. Galen affirmeth, that it is like a Ship having two fore-parts, that is, one behinde, and another before. Pliny also subscribeth here∣unto, and maketh it a very pestilent Serpent, Geminum habet caput Amphisbana, tanquam parum esset, uno ore fundi venenum, saith he; It hath a double-head, as though one mouth were not enough to utter his poyson according to the saying of the Poet:

Est gravi•• in geminum surgitis caput Amphis-benae Serpens qui visu necat & sibilo.

Which may be Englished thus;

This Serpent Double-head, is grievous to be seen, Whose cloven-head doth kill with sight and hissing keen.

Unto this also Aelianus subscribeth, that it is a true Serpent, and hath two heads, so that whenso∣ever it is to go forward, one of them standeth in the place of the tail, but when it is to go backward, then the head becometh the tail, and the tail the head. So also Mantuan saith it is a double-headed Serpent, and a fearful stinging Asp. And so generally all the Ancients, until Matthiolus and Grevinus time, who first of all began to contrary this opinion, affirming it to be impossible in nature, for one Serpent to have two heads, except it be monstrous, and exceed the common course of nature. Such a one was that Serpent with two heads that Aristotle speaketh of, which doth easily happen to all those creatures which at one birth bring forth many young ones; for so their bodies may be conjoyned into one, while theit heads stand asunder like twain. And they say that this Serpent doth resemble a Worm of the earth, whose head and tail is hard to be distinguished asunder except you see it going. And they say further, that this Serpent is like to the Scytal, of which we shall speak afterwards, differing from it in nothing except in going backward and forward, and this is all that they can bring against the opinion of the Ancients, whom I will not stand to confute, but leave the Reader to believe one or other: for it shall not bring to me any great disadvantage, except the losse of this new English name, for I have dealt faithfully with the Reader in setting down the opinion of both sides, and if I do fail in a fit name, yet will I not swerve from the best descripti∣on of his nature.

The whole proportion of his body is of equal magnitude or greatness, and the two extremities do answer the middle. His eyes are for the most part shut, the colour like earth, not black, but tending to blacknesse, the skin rough and hard, and set over with divers spots: all which properties, or ra∣ther parts are thus described by Nicander.

Cujus perpetua est caecum caligine lumen, Quod latas utrin{que} genas porrrecta{que} menta, Terreus est illi color, & densissima pellis Plurima quam varii distinctam signa figurant, Plus aliis alto Serpentibus aggeretendat.

In English thus:

Whose eye is ever void of light, because Two cheeks both broad and standing up it hides, The colour earth, thick skin, with spots in rows, Then other Serpents with greater bulk it glides.

Solinus Polihistor affirmeth, that they ingender and bring egges forth of the mouth, that is, out of that mouth which is toward the tail, if there be any such. There is no Serpent that doth more boldly adventure to indure the cold then this doth, for it cometh out of his den not only before other Serpents, but also before the Cuckoe sing, or the Grashopper cometh forth. They are

exceeding careful of their egges, and therefore seldom depart from them until they be hatched, whereby also may be collected their great love to their young ones. And further, by their forward and timely coming out of their holes, Grevinus maketh a good observation, that their temperament or constitution, is more hot then any other Serpent.

The Grecians have all observed, that this kinde of Serpent is hard to be killed, except with a Vine-branch, which they say was demonstrated by Dionysius, who being turned by Juno into madnesse, one day falling fast asleep, this Serpent leaped upon him and awaked him, whereat he being angry, pre∣sently killed it with a Vine-branch. Some have affirmed that a small rod or bat covered with the skin of this Serpent, and so laid beside a man, driveth away all manner of venomous Beasts. A wilde Olive-branch or sprig wapped in this skin, doth cure the senselesse and benummed estate of the sinews, and also is good for many things, as Nicander expresseth in these verses:

Haec ubi jam crevit, caedentes ligna coloni Sectamdeglabrant oleastri ex arbore virgam, Quale pedum, strictis{que} prehensi pellibus Anguis Infectam obvolvunt, quas certis deinde diebus Exarere sinunt, cantantes ante cicadas. Ʋtilis hic baculus frigentibus artubus esse Fertur, ubi ex animis digitos torpedo fatigat, Tunc quia constrictos, & eorum vincula, nervos Calfacit immisso fovet extendit{que} calore.

Which may be Englished thus;

When this is grown, the Peasants cutting wood, Do peel a branch taken from Olive-wilde, A foot in length, of strained Snakes-skin good, Rowling it up herein, till days fulfild, And let it dry before Grashoppers green: Thus made, is good for Sinews cold, Or nummed fingers, whose force hath been By heat extending what cold band did hold.

The wounds that come by the biting or stinging of this Serpent, are not great, but very small, and scarcely to be discerned outwardly, yet the accidents that follow, are like to those which ensue the bitings of Vipers, namely, inflamation, and a lingering death. The cure thereof must be the same which is applyed unto the sting of Vipers. And peculiarly I finde not any medicine serving for the cure of this poyson alone, except that which Pliny speaketh of, namely Coriander drunk by the pati∣ent, or laid to the sore.

It is reported by Galen and Grevinus, that if a woman with childe do chance to go over one of these Double-headed Serpents dead, she shall suffer abortment, and yet that they may keep them in their pockets alive without danger in boxes. The reason of this is given by Grevinus, because of the vapour ascending from the dead Serpent, by a secret antipathy against humane nature, which suffocateth the childe in the mothers womb. And thus much for this Serpent.

Of the DRAGON.

[illustration]

AMong all the kindes of Serpents, there is none comparable to the Dragon, or that affordeth and yeeldeth so much plentiful matter in History for the ample discovery of the nature there∣of: and therefore herein I must borrow more time from the residue, then peradventure the Reader

would be willing to spare from reading the particular stories of many other. But such is the neces∣sity hereof, that I can omit nothing making to the purpose, either for the nature or mortality of this Serpent, therefore I will strive to make the description pleasant, with variable history, seeing I may not avoid the length hereof, that so the sweetnesse of the one, (if my pen could so expresse it) may countervail the tediousnesse of the other.

The Hebrews call it Thanin, and Wolphius translateth Oach a Dragon, in his Commentaries upon Nehemiah. The Chaldees call it Darken, and it seemeth that the Greek word Dracon is derived of the Chald••••. We read of Albedisimon, or Ahedysimon, for a kinde of Dragon, and also Alhatraf, and Hauden, Haren carn••m, and such other terms, that may be referred to this place. The Grecians at this day call it Drakos; the Germans, Trach Lindtwarm; the French, Ʋn Dragon; the Italians, Drago, and Dragone. The derivation of the Greek word, beside the conjecture afore expressed, some think to be derived from Derkein, because of their vigilant eye-sight, and therefore it is faigned that they had the custody not only of the Golden-fleece, but also of many other treasures. And among other things, Alciatus hath an emblem of their vigilancy standing by an unmarried Virgin.

Vera haec effigies innuptae est Palladis: ejus Hic Draco, qui dominae constitit ante pedes. Cur Divae comes hoc animal? custadia rerum Huic data, sic lucos s••craque templa colit. Innuptas opus est cura asservare puellas Pervigili: laqueos undique tendit amor.

Which may be Englished thus;

This Dragon great which Lady Pallas stands before, Is the true picture of unmarried Maids: But why a consort to the Goddesse is this? and more Then other beasts more meek, who never fades? Because the safegard of all things belong to this, ••et, Wherefore his house in Groves and sacred Temples Ʋnmarried Maids of guards must never misse, Which watchful are to void loves snares and net.

For this cause the Egyptians did picture Serapis their God with three heads, that is to say, of a Lyon in the middle, on the right hand a meek fawning Dog, and on the left hand a ravening Wolf, all which forms are joyned together by the winding body of a Dragon, turning his head to the right hand of the God; which three heads are interpreted to signifie three times; that is to say, by the Lyon the present time; by the Wolf, the time past; and by the fawning Dog, the time to come; all which are guarded by the vigilancy of the Dragon. For this cause also among the fixed Stars of the North, there is one called Draco, a Dragon, all of them ending their course with the Sun and Moon, and they are in this Sphear called by Astronomers the Intersections of the Circles, the supe∣rior of these ascending, is called the head of the Dragon, and the inferior descending, is called the tail of the Dragon. And some think that GOD in the 38. of Job, by the word Gneish, meaneth this Sign or Constellation.

To conclude, the ancient Romans (as Vegetius writeth) carryed in all their Bands the Escutchion of a Dragon, to signifie their fortitude and vigilancy, which were born up by certain men called for that purpose Draconarii. And therefore when Constantius the Emperor entered into the City of Rome, his souldiers are said to bear up upon the tops of their spears, Dragons gaping with wide mouths, and made fast with golden chains and pearl, the winde whistling in their throats, as if they had been alive, threatning destruction, and their tails hanging loose in the air, were likewise by the winde tossed to and fro, as though they strove to come off from the spears, but when the winde was laid, all their motion was ended, whereupon the Poet saith:

Mansuescunt varii vento cessante Dracones.

In English thus;

When whistling winde in air ceast, The Dragons tamed then did rest.

The tale also of the Golden-fleece, if it be worth any place in this story, deserveth to be inserted here, as it is reported by Diodorus Siculus. When Aetes reigned in Pontus, he received an answer from the Oracle, that he should then dye when strangers should come thither with ships and fetch away the Golden-fleece. Upon which occasion he shewed himself to be of a cruel nature, for he did not only make Proclamation that he would sacrifice all strangers which came within his Dominions, but did also perform the same, that by the fame and report of such cruelty, he might terrifie all other Nations from having accesse unto that Temple. Not contented herewith, he raised a great strong wall round about the Temple wherein the Fleece was kept, and caused a sure watch or guard to attend the same day and night, of whom the Grecians tell many strange fables. For they say there were Bulls breathing out fire, and a Dragon warding the Temple and defending the Fleece, but the truth is that these watchmen because of their strength were called Bulls, because of their cru∣elty, were said to breath out fire, and because of their vigilancy, cruelty, strength and terror, to be Dragons.

Some affirm again, that in the Gardens of Hesperides in Lybia, there were golden Apples, which were kept by a terrible Dragon, which Dragon was afterward slain by Hercules, and the Apples taken away by him, and so brought to Eurystheus. Others affirm that Hesperides had certain flocks of sheep, the colour of whose wooll was like gold, and they were kept by a valiant shepheard called Draco: but I rather agree with Solinus, who giveth a more true reason of this fable, Ne fam•• licentis

vulneretur fides, lest (as he saith) faith and truth should receive a disgrace or wound by the lavish re∣port of fame. There was among the Hesperides a certain winding River coming from the Sea, and including within it the compasse of that land which is called the Gardens of Hesperides, at one place whereof, the falling of the water broken by a Rock, seemeth to be like the falling down of Snakes, to them that stand a far off, and from hence ariseth all the occasion of the fable aforesaid.

Indeed there was a statue of Hercules, in the left hand whereof were three Apples, which he was said to have obtained by the conquest of a Dragon, but that conquest of the Dragon did morally signifie his own concupiscence, whereby he raigned over three passions, that is to say, over his wrath by patience; over his cupidity by temperance; and over his pleasures by labour and travail: which were three vertues far more pretious then three golden Apples. But I will stay my course from pro∣secuting these moral discourses of the Dragon, and return again to his natural History, from which I have somewhat too long digressed.

There are divers sorts of Dragons, distinguished partly by their Countries, partly by their quan∣tity and magnitude, and partly by the different form of their external parts. There be Serpents in Arabia called Sirenae, which have wings, being as swift as Horses, running or flying at their own plea∣sure, and when they wound a man, he dyeth before he feeleth pain. Of these it is thought the Pro∣phet Esay speaketh, chap. 13. vers. 22. Serpens clamabit in Templis voluptariis: and for Serpents the old Translators read Syrenae, and so the English should be, the Syrene Dragons should cry in their Temples of pleasure: and the ancient distinction was, Angues aquarum, Serpentes terrarum, Dracones Templorum: that is to say, Snakes are of the water, Serpents of the earth, and Dragons of the Temples. And I think it was a just judgement of God, that the ancient Temples of the Heathen Idolaters were annoyed with Dragons, that as the Devil was there worshipped, so there might be appearance of his person in the ugly form and nature of a Dragon. For God himself in holy Scri∣pture, doth compare the Devil unto a Dragon, as Rev. 12. vers. 3. And there appeared another wonder in Heaven, for behold a great red Dragon, having seven heads, and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his head. Vers. 4. And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and cast them to the earth: and the Dragon stood before the Woman which was ready to be delivered, to devour her childe when she had brought it forth. Vers. 5. So she brought forth a man childe, which should rule all Nations with a rod of Iron. And her Son was taken up unto God and to his throne. Vers. 6. And the Woman fled into the Wildernesse, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there 1260 days. Vers 7. And there was a battail in heaven, Michael and his Angels fought against the Dragon, and the Dragon fought and his Angels. Vers. 8. But they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. Vers. 9. And the great Dragon that old Serpent called the Devill and Satan, was cast out, which deceiveth all the world, he was even cast unto the earth, and his Angels were cast out with him. Vers. 13. And when the Dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the Woman which had brought forth a man childe: and so forth, as it followeth in the Text. Whereupon Saint Augustine writeth, Diabolus Draco dicitur propter insidias, quia occulte insidiatur: that is, the Devill is called a Dragon because of his treachery, for he doth treacherously set upon men to destroy them.

It was wont to be said, because Dragons are the greatest Serpents, that except a Serpent eat a Ser∣pent, * 1.221 he shall never be a Dragon: for their opinion was, that they grew so great by devouring others of their kinde; and indeed in Aethiopia they grow to be thirty yards long, neither have they any other name for those Dragons but Elephant-killers, and they live very long.

Onesicritus writeth, that one Aposisares an Indian, did nourish two Serpents Dragons, whereof one was six and forty cubits long, and the other fourscore: and for the more famous verification of the fact, he was a very earnest suter to Alexander the Great, when he was in India, to come and see them, but the King being afraid, refused.

The Chroniclers of the affairs of Chius do write, that in a certain Valley neer to the foot of the Mountain Pellenaeus, was a Valley full of straight tall trees, wherein was bred a Dragon of wonderful magnitude or greatnesse, whose only voyce or hissing, did terrifie all the Inhabitants of Chius, and therefore there was no man that durst come nigh unto him, to consider or to take a perfect view of his quantity, suspecting only his greatnesse by the loudnesse of his voyce, until at length they knew him better by a singular accident worthy of eternal memory. For it hapned on a time that such a violent winde did arise, as did beat together all the Trees in the Wood, by which violent col∣lision the branches fell to be on fire, and so all the Wood was burned suddenly, compassing in the Dragon, whereby he had no means to escape alive, & so the trees fel down upon him and burned him. Afterward, when the fire had made the place bare of wood, the Inhabitants might see the quantity of the Dragon, for they found divers of his bones and his head, which were of such unusual great∣nesse, as did sufficiently confirm them in their former opninion: and thus by divine miracle was this monster consumed, whom never any man durst behold being alive, & the Inhabitants of the Countrey safely delivered from their just conceived fear.

It is also reported, that Alexander among many other Beasts which he saw in India, did there finde in a certain den a Dragon of seaventy cubits long, which the Indians accounted a sacred Beast, and therefore intreated Alexander to do it no harm. When it uttered the voyce with full breath, it terri∣fied his whole Army: they could never see the proportion of his body, but only the head, and by that they guessed the quantity of the whole body, for one of his eyes in their appearance seemed as great as a Macedonian buckler. Maximus Tyrius writeth that in the days of Alexander, there was like∣wise seen a Dragon in India, as long as five roods of lands are broad, which is incredible. For he

likewise saith that the Indians did feed him every day with many several Oxen and Sheep. It may be that it was the same spoken of before, which some ignorant men, and such as were given to set forth fables, amplyfied beyond measure and credit.

Whereas Dragons are bred in India and Africa, the greatest of all are in India, for in Aethiopia, Nu∣bia, and H••sp••••ia the Dragons are confined within the length of five cubits and twenty cubits: for in the time of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, there were three brought into Egypt, one was nine cubits long, which with great care was nourished in the Temple of Esculapius, the other two were seaven cubits long. About the place where once the Tower of Babel was builded, are Dragons of great quantity, and under the Equ••noctial, as Nicepho••us Callistus writeth, there are Serpents as thick as beams, in testimony where∣of their skins have been brought to Rome. And therefore it is no marvail, although S. Austine wri∣ting upon the 148. Psalm, doth say, Dracones magna quaedam sunt animantia, majora non sunt super terram: Dragons are certain great beasts, and there are none greater upon the earth. Neither is it to be thought incredible, that the souldiers of Attilius Regulus did kill a Dragon which was a hundred and twenty foot long, or that the Dragons in the dens of the Mountain Atlas, should grow so great that they can scarse move the fore-parts of their body. I am yet therefore to speak of the Dragons in * 1.222 the Mountains Emo〈…〉〈…〉 or of A••igia, or of Dachinabades, or the Regions of the East, or of that which Augustus shewed publiquely to the people of Rome, being fifty cubits long; or of those which be in the Alpes, which are found in certain Caves of the South-sides of the hills, so that this which hath been said, shall suffice for the quantity and Countries of Dragons. Besides, there are other kindes of Dragons which I must speak of in order: and first of all of the Epidaurian Dragons, which is bred no where but in that Countrey, being t••me, and of yellow golden colour, wherefore they were dedicated to Aesculapius, of whom Nicander writeth in this manner.

Nunc viridem & nigrum post dicta venena Draconem Aspice, quem patula fago Phoebeia proles In gelido Peli nutrivit culmin••, juxta Lae••a Pelethuniae quondam de••livia vallis.

In English thus;

After these venoms now behold the Dragon black and green, Nourished by Apollos son under a Beech ful broad, On top of the cold Pelus, as often hath been seen, By fertil vale of Pelethan his sliding road.

There are likewise other kinde of ••ame Dragons in Macedonia, where they are so meek, that wo∣men feed them, and suffer them to suck their breasts like little children their Infants also play with them, riding upon them and pinching them, as they would do with Dogs, without any harm, and sleeping with them in their beds. But among all Dragons, there was none more famous then the Dragon Python, or Pythias, as the Poets faign, which was bred of the flime of the earth, after the flood of Deucalion, and slain afterwards by Apollo, whereof there lyeth this tale; That when Laton•• was with childe by Jupiter of Apollo and Diana, Juno resisted their birth, but when they were born and laid in the Cradle, she sent the Dragon Python to devour them, Apollo being but a young Infant, did kill the Dragon with a dart. But this tale seemeth too fabulous and incredible, and therefore they have mended the matter with another device; For they say that Python by the commandment of Juno, did persecute Latona throughout all the world, seeking to devour her, so as she had no rest until she came unto her sister Asteria, who received her into Delos, where she was safely delivered of Apollo and Diana. Afterward, when the childe was grown up, he slew the Dragon in remembrance and re∣venge of the wrong done to his mother. But the true cause of this History is delivered by Pausani••s and Macrobius, to be thus; That Apollo killed one Python, a very wicked man in Delphos, and that the Poets in excuse of the fact, did faign him to be a Dragon, as aforesaid. And so I shall not need to say any more of Python, except these verses following out of Ovid about his generation:

—Sed te quo{que} maxima Python, Tum genuit populis{que} novis incognite Serpens Terror eras: tantum spa••ii de monte tenebas. Hunc Deus arcitenens & nunquam talibus armis Antè, nisi in damis, caprisque fugacibus usus: Mille gravem telis exhaustapene pharetra Perdidit effuso per vulnera nigra veneno. Neve operis famam posset delere vetustas, Instituit sacros celebri c••rtamine ludos Pythia perd••mitae Serpentis nomine dictos. Caeruleus tali prostratus Apolline Python.

Which may be Englished thus;

But yet thou ugly Python wert engendered by her, tho A terror to the new-made-folk, which never erst had known, So foul a Dragon in their life so monstrously fore-grown, So great a ground thy poyson'd paunch did underneath thee hide, The God of shooting, who no where before that present tide Those kinde of weapons put in ure but at the speckled Deer, Or at the Roes so light of foot, a thousand shafts well neer

Did on the hideous Serpent spend, of which there was not one But forced forth the venomd-bloud, along his sides to gone: So that his quiver almost void, he naild him to the ground, And did him nobly at the last by force of shot confound. And lest that time should of this work deface the worthy fame, He did ordain in minde thereof a great and solemn game, Which of the Serpent that he slew, of Python bare the name.

Of the Indian Dragons there are also said to be two kindes, one of them fenny, and living in the marishes, which are slow of pace and without combes on their heads like females: the other in the Mountains, which are more sharp and great, and have combes upon their head, their backs being somewhat brown, and all their bodies lesse scaly then the other. When they come down from the Mountains into the plain to hunt, they are neither afraid of marishes nor violent waters, but thrust themselves greedily into all hazards and dangers: and because they are of longer and stronger bo∣dies then the Dragons of the fens, they beguile them of their meat, and take away from them their prepared booties. Some of them are of a yellowish fiery colour, having also sharp backs like saws; these also have beards, and when they set up their scales they shine like silver. The apples of their eyes are precious stones, and as bright as fire, in which there is affirmed to be much vertue against many diseases, and therefore they bring unto the Hunters and killers of Dragons no small gain, besides the profit of their skin, and their teeth: and they are taken when they descend from the Mountains into the Valleys to hunt the Elephants, so as both of them are kill'd together by the Hunters.

Their members are very great, like unto the members of the greatest Swine, but their bodies are leaner, flexibly turning to every side, according to the necessity of motion: Their snouts are very strong, resembling the greatest ravening Fishes; they have beards of a yellow golden colour, being full of bristles: and the Mountain-dragons commonly have more deep eye-lids then the Dragons of the Fens. Their aspect is very fierce and grim, and whensoever they move upon the earth, their eyes give a sound from their eye-lids, much like unto the tinckling of Brasse, and sometimes they boldly venture into the Sea and take Fishes.

Of the WINGED DRAGON.

THere be some Dragons which

[illustration]

have wings and no feet, some again have both feet and wings, and some neither feet nor wings, but are only distinguished from the common sort of Serpents by the combe growing upon their heads, and the beard under their cheeks.

Saint Augustine saith, that Dra∣gons abide in deep Caves and hollow places of the earth, and that some-times when they perceive moistnes in the air, they come out of their holes, & beating the air with their wings, as it were with the strokes of Oars, they forsake the earth and flie aloft: which wings of theirs are of a skinny substance, and very voluble, and spreading themselves wide, according to the quantity and largenesse of the Dragons body, which caused Lucan the Poet in his verses to write in this manner following:

Vos quo{que} qui cunctis innoxia numina terris Serpitis, aurato nitidi fulgore Dracones, Pestiferos ardens facit Africa: ducitis altum Aera cum pennis, &c.—

In English thus;

You shining Dragons creeping on the earth, Which fiery Africk holds with skins like gold, Yet pestilent by hot infecting breath: Mounted with wings in th' air we do behold.

The Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Georgia, once called Media, do say that in their Vallies there are divers Dragons which have both wings and feet, and that their feet are like unto the feet of Geese. Besides, there are Dragons of sundry colours, for some of them are black, some red, some of an ash-colour, some yellow, and their shape and outward appearance very beautiful, according to the verses of Nicander.

••or〈…〉〈…〉u apparet species pulchro illius ore, Triplice conspicui se produni ordine dentes, Magna sub egregia scintillant lumina fronte, Tincta{que} felle tegunt imum palearia mentum.

Which may be Englished thus;

Their form of presence outwardly appears All beautiful, and in their goodly mouth Their teeth stand double, all one within another: Conspicuous order so doth bewray the truth. Ʋnder their brows, which are both great and wide, Stand twinckling eyes, as bright as any star, With red galls tincture are their dewlaps dyed, Their chinor under-chap to cover far.

Gillius, Pierius, and Grevinus, following the authority of this Poet, do affirm that a Dragon is of a black colour, the belly somewhat green, and very beautiful to behold, having a treble row of teeth in their mouths upon every jaw, and with most bright and cleer seeing eyes, which caused the Poets to faign in their writings, that these Dragons are the watchfull keepers of Treasures. They have also two dewlaps growing under their chin, and hanging down like a beard, which are of a red colour: their bodies are set all over with very sharp scales, and over their eyes stand certain flexible eye-lids. When they gape wide with their mouth, and thrust forth their tongue, their teeth seem very much to resemble the teeth of wilde Swine: And their necks have many times grosse thick hair growing upon them, much like unto the bristles of a wilde Boar.

Their mouth, (especially of the most tameable Dragons) is but little, not much bigger then a pipe, through which they draw in their breath, for they wound not with their mouth, but with their tails only beating with them when they are angry. But the Indian, Aethiopian, and Phrygian Dragons, have very wide mouths, through which they often swallow in whole fowls and beasts. Their tongue is cloven as if it were double, and the Investigators of nature do say, that they have fifteen teeth of a side. The males have combes on their heads, but the females have none, and they are likewise distin∣guished by their beards.

They have most excellent senses both of seeing and hearing, and for this cause their name Drakon cometh of Derkein, and this was one cause why Jupiter the Heathens great God, is said to be meta∣morphosed into a Dragon, whereof their flyeth this tale: when he fell in love with Proserpina, he ra∣vished her in the likenesse of a Dragon, for he came unto her and covered her with the spires of his body; and for this cause the people of Sabazii did observe in their mysteries or sacrifices the shape of a Dragon rowled up within the compasse of his spires: so that as he begot Ceres with childe in the likenesse of a Bull, he likewise deluded her daughter Proserpina in the likenesse of a Dragon; but of these transmutations we shall speak more afterwards, and I think the vanity of these took first ground from the Africans, who believe that the original of Dragons took beginning from the unnatural conjunction of an Eagle and a she Wolf. And so they say that the Wolf growing great by this con∣ception, doth not bring forth as at other times, but her belly breaketh and the Dragon cometh out, who in his beak and wings resembleth the Dragon his father, and in his feet and tail, the Wolf his mother, but in the skin neither of them both: but this kinde of fabulous generation is already sufficiently confuted. Their meats are fruits and herbs, or any venomous creature, therefore they live long without food, and when they eat, they are not easily filled. They grow most fat by eating of egges, in devouring whereof they use this Art, if it be a great Dragon, he swalloweth it up whole, and then rowleth himself, whereby he crusheth the egges to pieces in his belly, and so nature casteth out the shells, and keepeth in the meat. But if it were a young Dragon, as if it be a Dragons whelp, he taketh the egge within the spire of his tail, and so crushed it hard, and holdeth it fast, untill his scales open the shell like a knife then sucketh he out of the place opened all the meat of the egg. In like sort do the young ones pull off the feathers from the fowls which they eat, and the old ones swallow them whole, casting the feathers out of their bellies again.

The Dragons of Phrygia when they are hungry, turn themselves towards the West, and gaping wide, with the force of their breath do draw the Birds that flie over their heads into their throats, which some have thought is but a voluntary lapse of the Fowls, to be drawn by the breath of the Dragon, as by a thing they love, but it is more probable, that some vaporous and venomous breath is sent up from the Dragon to them, that poysoneth and infecteth the air about them, whereby their senses are taken from them, and they astonished fall down into his mouth. But if it fortune the Dragons finde not food enough to satisfie their hunger, then they hide themselves until the people be returned from the market, or the heard-men bring home their flocks, and upon a sudden they devour either Men or Beasts, which come first to their mouths: then they go again and hide themselves in their dens and hollow Caves of the earth, for their bodies being exceeding hot, they very seldom come out of the cold earth, except to seek meat and nourishment. And because they live only in the hottest Countries, therefore they commonly make their lodgings neer unto the wa∣ters, or else in the coldest places among the rocks and stones.

They greatly preserve their health (as Aristotle affirmeth) by eating of wilde Lettice, for that they make them to vomit, and cast forth of their stomach whatsoever meat offendeth them, and they are most specially offended by eating of Apples, for their bodies are much subject to be filled with winde, and therefore they never eat Apples, but first they eat wilde Lettice. Their sight also (as Plutarch saith) doth many times grow weak and feeble, and therefore they renew and recover the same again by rubbing their eyes against Fennel, or else by eating of it.

Their age could never yet be certainly known, but it is conjectured that they live lon••▪ and in great health, like to all other Serpents, and therefore they grow so great. They do not only live on the land, as we have said already, but also swim in the water, for many times they take the Sea in Aethiopia, four or five of them together, folding their tails like hurdles, and holding up their heads, so swim they over to seek better food in Arabia.

We have said already, that when they set upon Elephants, they are taken and killed of men: now the manner how the Indians kill the Mountain Dragons is thus; they take a garment of Scarlet, and picture upon it a charm in golden letters, this they lay upon the mouth of the Dragons den, for with the red colour and the gold, the eyes of the Dragon are overcome, and he falleth asleep, the Indians in the mean season watching, and muttering secretly words of Incantation; when they per∣ceive he is fast asleep, suddenly they strike off his neck with an Ax, and so take out the balls of his eyes, wherein are lodged those rare and precious stones which contain in them vertues unutterable, as hath been evidently proved by one of them, that was included in the Ring of Gyges. Many times it falleth out, that the Dragon draweth in the Indian both with his Ax and Instruments into his den, and there devoureth him, in the rage whereof, he so beateth the Mountain that it shaketh. When the Dragon is killed, they make use of the skin, eyes, teeth, and flesh; as for the flesh, it is of a vitrial or glassie colour, and the Aethiopians do eat it very greedily, for they say it hath in it a refrigerative power. And there be some which by certain inchanting verses do tame Dragons, and rideth upon their necks, as a man would ride upon a Horse, guiding and governing them with a bridle.

Now because we have already shewed, that some Dragons have wings, lest it should seem uncredi∣ble, as the foolish world is apt to believe no more then they see, I have therefore thought good to add in this place, a particular relation of the testimonies of sundry learned men, concerning these winged Serpents or Dragons. First of all Megasthenes writeth, that in India there be certain flying Serpents, * 1.223 which hurt not in the day, but in the night time, and these do render or make a kinde of urine, by the touching whereof, all the parts of mortal creatures do rot away. And there is a Mountain which divideth a sunder the Kingdom of Narsinga from Alabaris, wherein be many winged Serpents sitting upon trees, which they say poyson men with their breath. There be many pestilent winged * 1.224 Serpents which come out of Arabia every year by troups into Egypt, these are destroyed by a certain black Bird called Ibis, who fighteth with them in the defence of that Countrey where she liveth, so that there lie great heaps of them many times destroyed upon the earth by these Birds, whose bodies may be there visibly seen to have both wings and legs, and their bones being of great quantity and stature, remain unconsumed for many years after. These kinde of Serpents or Dragons, covet to keep about Trees of Frankincense which grow in Arabia, and when they are driven away from thence with the fume or smoak of Stirax, then they flie (as is aforesaid) into Egypt, and this is to be considered, that if it were not for this Stirax, all that Countrey would be consumed with Dragons.

Neither have we in Europe only heard of Dragons and never seen them, but also even in our own Country, there have (by the testimony of sundry Writers) divers been discovered and killed. And first * 1.225 of all, there was a Dragon or winged Serpent brought unto Francis the French King, when he lay at Sancton, by a certain Countreyman, who had slain the same Serpent himself with a Spade, when it set upon him in the fields to kill him. And this thing was witnessed by many learned and credible men which saw the same: and they thought it was not bred in that Countrey, but rather driven by the winde thither from some forain Nation. For France was never known to breed any such Monsters. Among the Pyrenes also, there is a cruel kinde of Serpent, not past four foot long, and as thick as a mans arm, out of whose sides grow wings much like unto gristles.

Gesner also saith, that in the year of our Lord 1543. there came many Serpents both with wings and legs into the parts of Germany neer Stiria, who did bite and wound many men incurably. Cardan also describeth certain Serpents with wings, which he saw at Paris, whose dead bodies were in the hands of Gulielmus Musicus, he saith that they had two legs and small wings, so that they could scarce flie, the head was little, and like to the head of a Serpent, their colour bright, and without hair or feathers, the quantity of that which was greatest, did not exceed the bignesse of a Cony, and it is said they were brought out of India. Besides, a further confirmation of these Beasts, there * 1.226 have been noted in all ages; for it is written in the Roman Chronicles, the times of their apparition and manifestation.

When the River of Tiber over-flowed above the banks, then were many Serpents discovered, and many Dragons, as in the time of Mauritius the Emperor, at what time a Dragon came along by the City of Rome, upon the waters in the sight of all men, and so passed to the Sea: after which prodi∣gy, there followed a great mortal pestilence. In the year 1499. the 26. day of May, there came a * 1.227 Dragon to the City of Lucerne, which came out of the Lake through Rusa, down along the River, many people of all sorts beholding the same.

There have been also Dragons many times seen in Germany, flying in the air at mid-day, and signi∣fying great and fearful fires to follow, as it happened neer to the City called Niderburge, neer to the shore of the Rhene, in a marvellous clear Sun-shine day, there came a Dragon three times successively together in one day, and did hang in the air over a Town called Sanctogoarin, shaking his tail over that Town every time: it appeared visibly in the sight of many of the Inhabitants, and after∣wards it came to passe, that the said Town was three times burned with fire, to the great harm and

undoing of all the people dwelling in the same: for they were not able to make any resistance to quench the fire, with all the might, Art, and power that they could raise. And it was further ob∣served, that about that time there were many Dragons seen washing themselves in a certain Foun∣tain or Well neer the Town, and if any of the people did chance to drink of the water of that Well, their bellies did instantly begin to swell, and they dyed as if they had been poysoned. Whereupon it was publiquely decreed, that the said Well should be filled up with stones, to the intent that ne∣ver any man should afterwards be poysoned with that water; and so a memory thereof was con∣tinued, and these things are written by Justinus Goblerus, in an Epistle to Gesner, affirming that he did not write faigned things, but such things as were true, and as he had learned from men of great honesty and credit, whose eyes did see and behold both the Dragons, and the mishaps that follow∣ed by fire.

When the body of Cleomenes was crucified, and hung upon the Crosse, it is reported by them that were the watch-men about it, that there came a Dragon and did winde it self about his body, and with his head covered the face of the dead King, oftentimes licking the same, and not suffering any Bird to come neer and touch the carkasse. For which cause there began to be a reverent opinion of divinity attributed to the King, until such time as wise and prudent men, studious of the truth, found out the true cause hereof. For they say that as Bees are generated out of the body of Oxen, and Drones of Horses, and Hornets of Asses: so do the bodies of men ingender out of their marrow a Serpent, and for this cause the Ancients were moved to consecrate the Dragon to Noble-spirited men, and therefore there was a monument kept of the first Africanus, because that under an Olive planted with his own hand, a Dragon was said to preserve his ghost.

But I will not mingle fables and truths together, and therefore I will reserve the moral discourse of this Beast unto another place; and this which I have written, may be sufficient to satisfie any rea∣sonable man, that there are winged Serpents and Dragons in the world. And I pray God that we never have better arguments to satisfie us, by his corporal and lively presence in our Countrey, lest some great calamity follow thereupon. Now therefore we will proceed to the love and hatred of this Beast, that is observed with man and other creatures.

And first of all, although Dragons be natural enemies to men, like unto all other Serpents, yet many times (if there be any truth in story) they have been possessed with extraordinary love, both to men, women and children, as may appear by these particulars following. There was one Aleva a Thessallan Neatherd, which did keep Oxen in Ossa, hard by the Fountain Hemonius, there was a Dra∣gon fell in love with this man, for his hair was as yellow as any gold, unto him for his hair did this Dragon often come, creeping closely as a Lover to his Love: and when he came unto him, he * 1.228 would lick his hair and face so gently, and in so sweet a manner, as the man professed he never felt the like, so as without all fear he conversed with him, and as he came, so would he go away again, never returning to him empty, but bringing some one gift or other, such as his nature and kinde could lay hold on.

There was a Dragon also which loved Pindus the son of Macedo King of Emathia: This Pindus ha∣ving many Brothers most wicked and lewd persons, and he only being a valiant man of honest dispo∣sition, having likewise a comely and goodly personage, understanding the treachery of his Brethren against him, bethought himself how to avoid their hands and tyranny. Now forasmuch as he knew that the Kingdom which he possessed, was the only mark they all shot at, he thought it better to leave that to them, and so to rid himself from envy, fear, and peril, then to embrew his hand in their bloud, or to lose his life and Kingdom both together. Wherefore he renounced and gave over the government, and betook himself to the exercise of hunting, for he was a strong man, fit to combate with wilde Beasts, by destruction of whom, he made more room for many men upon the earth, so that he passed all his days in that exercise. It hapned on a day that he was hunting of a Hind-calf, and spurring his Horse with all his might and main in the eager persuit thereof, he rode out of the sight of all his company, and suddenly the Hind-calf leaped into a very deep Cave, out of the sight of Pindus the Hunter, and so saved himself. Then he alighted from his Horse, and tyed him to the next Tree, seeking out as diligently as he could for a way into the Cave, whereinto the Hind-calf had leaped: and when he had looked a good while about him, and could finde none, he heard a voyce speaking unto him, and forbidding him to touch the Hind-calf, which made him look about again, to see if he could perceive the person from whom the voyce proceeded, but espying none, he grew to be afraid, and thought that the voyce proceeded from some other greater cause, and so leaped upon his Horse hastily, and departed again to his fellows. The day after he re∣turned to the same place, and when he came thither, being terrified with the remembrance of the former voyce, he durst not enter into the place, but stood there doubting and wondering with himself, what Shepheards or Hunters, or other men might be in that place to diswarn him from his game, and therefore he went round about to seek for some, or to learn from whence the voyce pro∣ceeded. While he was thus seeking, there appeared unto him a Dragon of a great stature, creep∣ing upon the greatest part of his body, except his neck and head lifted up a little, and that little was as high as the stature of any man can reach, and in this fashion he made toward Pindus, who at the first sight was not a little afraid of him, but yet did not run away, but rather gathering his wits together, remembred that he had about him Birds, and divers parts of Sacrifices, which instantly he gave unto the Dragon, and so mitigated his fury by these gifts, and as it were with a royal feast, changed the cruel nature of the Dragon into kinde usage. For the Dragon being smoothed over with

these gifts, & as it were overtaken with the liberality of Pindus, was contented to forsake the old place of his habitation, and to go away with him. Pindus also being no less glad of the company of the Dra∣gon, did daily give unto him the greatest part of his hunting, as a deserved price and ransome of his life, and conquest of such a Beast. Neither was he unrequited for it, for Fortu••e so favoured his game, that whether he hunted fowls of the air, or beasts of the earth, he still obtained and never mis∣sed. So that his fame for hunting procured him more love and honor, then ever could the Imperial Crown of his Countrey. For all young men desired to follow him, admiring his goodly personage and strength, the Virgins and Maids falling in love, contended among themselves who should mar∣ry him: the wives forsaking their husbands, contrary to all womanly modesty, rather desired his company then the society of their husbands, or to be preferred among the number of the Goddesses. Only his Brethren inraged against him, sought all means to kill and destroy him. Therefore they watched all opportunities, lying in continual ambush where he hunted to accomplish their accursed enterprise, which at last they obtained: for as he followed the game, they enclosed him in a nar∣row straight neer to a Rivers side, where he had no means to avoid their hands, they and their com∣pany being many, and he alone, wherefore they drew out their swords and slew him. When he saw no remedy but death, he cryed out aloud for help, whose voyce soon came to the ears of the watchful Dragon, (for no Beast heareth or seeth better) out he cometh from his den, and finding the murtherers standing about the dead body, he presently surprized and killed them, so revenging the quarrel of Pindus, and then fell upon the dead body of his friend, never forsaking the custody thereof, until the neighbours adjoyning to the place, taking knowledge of the fact, came to bury the bodies. But when they came and saw the Dragon among them, they were afraid, and durst not come neer, but stood afar off, consulting what to do; till at last they perceived that the Dragon began to take knowledge of their fear, who with an admirable curtesie of nature, perceiving their mourning and lamentation for their dead friend, and withall, their abstinence from approach∣ing to execute his exequies, or funerals, began to think that he might be the cause of this their terror, and far standing off from the dead bodies, wherefore he departed, taking his farewell of the body which he loved, and so gave them leave by his absence, to bestow upon him an honourable bu∣rial, which they performed accordingly, and the River adjoyning, was named by the name of Pin∣dus-death.

By which story may appear, that these savage Dragons are made loving and tame to men, by good turns and benefits bestowed upon them, for there is no nature which may not be overcome by kinde∣nesse. And yet I may not leave this matter thus, nor from these two examples alone, conclude the practise and possibility of love betwixt Men and Dragons: I will therefore add some three or four examples more.

There was a Dragon the lover of Aetholis (as Plutarch writeth) who came unto her every night, and did her body no harm, but gently sliding over her, played with her till morning, then also would he depart away assoon as light appeared, that he might not be espyed. The Maidens friends came to the knowledge hereof, and so removed her far away, to the intent the Dragon might come no more at her: and thus they remained asunder a great while, the Dragon earnestly seeking for the Maiden, wandered far and neer to finde her out. At last he met with her, and not saluting her gently * 1.229 as he was wont, flew upon her, binding her hands down with the spire of his body, hissing softly in her face, and beating gently with his tail her back-parts, as it were taking a moderate revenge upon her, for the neglect of his love by her long absence.

Another like story unto this is reported by Aelianus, of a great Dragon which loved a fair Wo∣man, beloved also of a fair Man, the Woman oftentimes did sleep with this Dragon, but not so wil∣lingly as with the Man: wherefore she forsook the habitation of her place for a month, and went away where the Dragon could not find her, thinking that her absence might quench his desire. But he came often to the place where he was wont to meet with the woman, and not finding her, returned quietly back again, and came again another time: at last he grew suspicious, and like a lover failing in his expectation, grew very sorrowful, and so continued till the month was exspired, every night vi∣siting the accustomed place. At last the woman returned, and the Dragon presently met with her, and in an amorous fashion, full of suspicion and jealousie, winding about her body, did beat her as you have heard in the former story: and this (saith Aelianus) happened in Judea, in the days of He∣red the King.

There was a little Dragon-whelp bred in Arcadia, and brought up familiarly with a little boy from his infancy, until the Boy became a young Man, and the Dragon also became of great stature, so that one of them loved another so well as Man and Beast could love together, or rather two play-fellows from the Cradle. At last the friends of the Boy seeing the Dragon grow so great in so short a space, began to be suspicious of him; whereupon they took the bed wherein the Boy and the Dragon were lodged, and carryed the same into a far remote place of Woods and Wildernesse, and there set down the bed with the Boy and the Dragon together. The boy after a little while returned, and came home again to his friends; the Dragon wandered up and down in the Woods, feeding upon herbs and poyson, according to his nature, and never more cared for the habitation of men, but rested contented with a solitary life. In the length of time it came to passe that the boy grew to be a perfect man, and the Dragon also remained in the Wood, and although absent one from the other, yet mu∣tually loving as well as ever. It hapned that this young man travelled through that place where the Dragon was lodged, and fell among theeves, when the young man saw their swords about his ears▪

he cryed out, and the Dragons den being not far off, his cry came to the Dragons ears, who instantly knowing the voyce of his play-fellow, answered the same with another, at whose hissing the theeves grew afraid, and began to run away, but their legs could not carry them so fast, as to escape the Dra∣gons teeth and claws; for he came speedily to release his friend, and all the theeves that he could find, he put to cruel death, then did he accompany his friend out of the place of peril, and returned back again to his den, neither remembering wrath, for that he was exposed to the Wildernesse, and there left by his play-fellow, nor yet like perverse men, forsaking their old friend in danger.

They that desire to read more of this subject, shall finde store of examples in Aelianus his sixt and thirteen Books. To conclude, when Messalina the wife of Claudius, did send certain men to take away the life of Nero, who was a rival of Britannicus; it is said that when they had him in their hands to * 1.230 strangle him, a Dragon appeared out of the earth, or floor of the chamber, and did so terrifie these hangmen, that they ran away and spared Neroes life. By which example, another example of piety in Dragons is observed.

Again, Telephus ignorantly lying with his mother, had committed incest with her, had not a Dra∣gon by divine providence come and parted them asunder: therefore Draconi similis est virtus indaga∣trix quae diligenter omnia perscrutatur, rimatur{que} studiosissimè, the vertue of discretion or perfect knowledge, is like a Dragon, which diligently searcheth all things, and studiously looketh into every chink: so did this Dragon preserve the chastity of the mother and the son, when they ignorantly and in the dark had defiled each other, but for his appearance and demonstration. I will add but this one example more of their love of chastity in men and women.

In Lavinium there was a great holy Wood, neer unto which stood a Temple of Juno, in that wood there was a great deep den of a Dragon, unto the which Dragon the Virgins came every year be∣ing blinde-folded with clowts, and carrying Marchpanes in their hands: When they entred the Wood, there was a certain spirit (as it was said) without offence did lead them to the den of the Dragon, and so every one of the Virgins did severally offer up their Marchpanes to the Dragon: the Dragon received the Marchpane at the hand of every pure Virgin and unspotted, but if they were defiled, and held only the name of Virgins, then the Dragon refused the Marchpane, and therefore they were all examined at their coming forth, that those which had lost their Vir∣ginity might be punished by the Law. And by this story, (although none but Heathens will believe it to be true, because it is a fable meerly invented to defend Idolatry, which with my soul and spirit I do detest) yet I may collect thus much as a moral out of a fable, that Dragons in ancient time did honor Virginity. And thus seeing they neither love, nor are beloved of any other creature, I will here leave to talk of their love and friendship, and passe on to their hatred and ad∣versaries.

The examples before expressed being all extraordinary and beside nature, do not conclude, but that there is an ordinary hatred betwixt Men and Dragons, and therefore in the discourse of their enemies, Men must have the first place, as their most worthy adversary, for both Dragons have pe∣rished by Men, and Men by Dragons, as may appear by these stories following. When the Region of Helvetia began first to be purged from noysome Beasts, there was a horrible Dragon found neer a Countrey Town called Wilser, who did destroy all men and beasts that came within his danger in the time of his hunger, insomuch that that Town and the fields there to adjoyning, was called Dedwiler, that is, a Village of the Wildernesse, for all the people and Inhabitants had forsaken the same, and fled to other places.

There was a man of that Town whose name was Winckelriedt, who was banished for man-slaugh∣ter, * 1.231 this man promised if he might have his pardon, and be restored again to his former Inheritance, that he would combate with that Dragon, and by Gods help destroy him: which thing was granted unto him with great joyfulnesse. Wherefore he was recalled home, and in the presence of many people went forth to fight with the Dragon, whom he slew and overcame, whereat for joy he lifted up his sword imbrued in the Dragons bloud, in token of victory, but the bloud distilled down from his sword upon his body, and caused him instantly to fall down dead. And thus this noble Conquer∣or, a man worthy to be remembred in all ages and Nations, who had strength to kill the Dragon be∣ing alive, yet had no power to resist the venom of his bloud, he being dead. But had it not been that his hand had been before imbrewed in the bloud of a man, I do not believe that the bloud of a Dragon could have fallen so heavy upon him. But this is the judgement of GOD, either to punish murder in the same kinde, or elso to teach us, that we should not rejoyce in our own merits, left God see it and be angry. For our Saviour Christ forbade his Disciples that they should rejoyce that the Devils were subject to them; and therefore much lesse may we poor creatures rejoyce for over∣coming men or beasts.

And yet one thing more is to be considered in the death of this man, who was banished for killing a man, and was pardoned for killing a Dragon, and yet killed by the Dragon after the Dragon was slain. Thus bloud was the sin because it brought death, & death again brought bloud to be the reven∣ger of the first, that the bloud of man might be washed away with the bloud of man, and the bloud of a Serpent coming betwixt. And thus I may truly say as the Christian Poet saith in another case, Sanguine succrevit, sanguine finis erit, as it grew, so shall it end in bloud.

In the days of Philip King of Macedon, there was a way into a Mountain of Armenia, over which * 1.232 the King had prayed, that never man might go but he might die: wherefore Socrates, to try the effect of the Kings prayer, set his Optick Philosophical glasse that he might see what was

in that way, and presently he perceived two great Dragons, who coming out of their dens, did in∣fect the air there abouts with a pestilent evaporation of their own breath. This he declared to the King, who for the revocation of his own prayer, armed divers men to go out against them and kill them: who likewise performed the same, and so cleared the way from that annoyance. And thus we see another story of Dragons slain by men.

Hereunto may be added, how Hercules, when he was a childe in his cradle, slew two Dragons, as Pindarus relateth. And the Corcyreans did worship Diomedes for killing of a Dragon. Donatus a holy Bi∣shop in Germany, finding a Dragon to lie secretly hid beside a bridge, killing Men, Oxen, Horse, Sheep, and Goats, he came boldly unto him in the name of Christ, and when the Dragon opened his mouth to devour him, the holy Bishop spitting into his mouth killed him.

When Orpheus was in hawking, and while he intended his sport, suddenly a Dragon set upon him, but his hawking Spaniels or Dogs released him of that Danger, for they tore the Dragon in pieces. Many such other stories I could relate, but I spare them here, because I have handled them in the beginning of this story: and so I passe over the slaughter of Dragons by Men, and come to the slaughter of ••en by Dragons, which are briefly these that follow.

Petrus Damianus declareth of a certain husband-man, who rising early in the morning, and travel∣ling by the way side, saw a great Dragon lie still upon the earth without motion, he being weary, thought him to be a trunck of some tree, wherefore he sate down upon him, & the beast endured him a little while, but at the last he turned his head in anger, and swallowed him up. After that the Grae∣cians faigned as though they would go away from Troy, and Sinon the Traytor was received by the Trojans into the City, there were two Dragons which slew the sons of Laocoon as they landed in the Island Porcy, Caribeae, and Chalidnae, which is thus described by Virgil;

At gemini lapsu delubra ad summa Dracones Effugiunt, saevae{que} petunt Tritonidos arcem, Sub pedibusque Deae clypeique sub orbe teguntur: Tum verò tremefacta novus per pectora cunctis Insinuat pavor, & scelus expendisse merentem Laocoonta ferunt, sacrum qui cuspide rob••r Laeserit, &c.—

Which may be Englished thus;

Two Dragons si de, and to the top of Temple flie, Making their way unto the fort of Trit••ns feirce, Ʋnder the Goddesse feet and shield, in circle down they lie, What fear did mortal breast possesse then cannot I rehearse: For then Laocoon did begin to think on's former sin, When he did harm the sacred thing by thrusting spear within.

About the Temple of Jupiter Nemeus, there is a Grove of Cypresse trees, among which there is a place wherein a Dragon did destroy Opheltes, when he was laid under a green bush by his Nurse. There is a proverb, Bonos viros vel à mure morderi, malis ne Draconem dentes audere admoliri: that is to say, every Mouse will bite a good man, but evill men are not touched with the teeth of Dragons.

Alciatus hath a pretty Emblem, whose title is, Ex arduis perpetuum nomen, from difficult things and great labours, ariseth immortal fame: wherein he pictureth a Dragon following young Spar∣rows to take and eat them. His verses in Latine are these:

Crediderat platani ramis sua pignora passer. Et bene, ni saevo visa Dracone for ent. Clutiit hic pullos omnes, miseram{que} parentem Saxeus & tali dignus obire neoe. Haec nisi mentitur Chalcas, monimenta laboris Sunt longi, cujus fama perennis eat.

Which may be thus Englished;

To Plantain-leaves the Sparrow did her young commit, And safe enough, had not the Dragon them espyed, He eat the young ones all, the dam with sons destroyd, Well worthy such a death, of life to be deuyed; This is by Chalcas said, a type of labour long, Whose fame eternal lives in every tongue.

There be certain beasts called Dracontopides, very great and potent Serpents, whose faces are like to the faces of Virgins, and the residue of their body like to Dragons. It is thought that such a one was the Serpent that deceived Eve, for Beda saith, it had a Virgins countenance, and therefore the woman seeing the likenesse of her own face, was the more easily drawn to believe it: into the which when the Devil had entred, they say he taught it to cover the body with leaves, and to shew nothing but the head and face. But this fable is not worthy to be refuted, because the Scripture it self doth di∣rectly gainsay every part of it. For first of all it is called a Serpent, and if it had been a Dragon, Moses would have said so, and therefore for ordinary punishment, God doth appoint it to creep upon the belly, wherefore it is not likely that it had either wings or feet. Secondly, it was unpossible and un∣likely, that any part of the body was covered or concealed from the sight of the woman, seeing she knew it directly to be be a Serpent, as afterward she confessed before GOD and her husband.

There be also certain little Dragons called in Arabia, Vesga, and in Catalonia, Dragons of houses, these when they bite, leave their teeth behinde them, so as the wound never ceaseth swelling as long as the teeth remain therein, and therefore for the better cure thereof, the teeth are drawn forth, and so the wound will soon be healed. And thus much for the hatred betwixt Men and Dragons, now we will proceed to other creatures.

The greatest discord is betwixt the Eagle and the Dragon, for the Vultures, Eagles, Swans and Dragons, are enemies one to another. The Eagles when they shake their wings, make the Dra∣gons afraid with their ratling noise, then the Dragon hideth himself within his den, so that he ne∣ver fighteth but in the air, either when the Eagle hath taken away his young ones, and he to re∣cover them flyeth aloft after her, or else when the Eagle meeteth him in her nest, destroying her Egges and young ones: for the Eagle devoureth the Dragons and little Serpents upon earth, and the Dragons again and Serpents do the like against the Eagles in the air. Yea many times the Dragon attempteth to take away the prey out of the Eagles talons, both on the ground and in the air, so that there ariseth betwixt them a very hard and dangerous fight, which is in this manner de∣scribed by Nicander.

Hunc petit invisum magni Jovis armiger hostem, Cumque genis parat acre suis ex aethere bellum: Pascentem in silvis quam primum viderit illum, Quod totos ferus is nidos cum mitibus ovis, Et simul ipsa terens, & vastans pignora perdat. Non timet hoc Serpens, imò quodam impete dumis Prosiliens, ipsamque aquilam, leporemque tenellum Extrahit ex rapidis vi fraudeque fortior uncis. Cauta malum declinat avis, fit ibi aspera pugna, Ʋt queat extortam victor sibi tollere praedam. Sed frustra elapsam, & volitantem hino inde voluerem Insequitur, longos sinuum contractus in orbes, Obliquoque levans sursum sua lumina visu.

Which may be Englished thus;

When as the Eagle, Joves great Bird, did see her enemy, Sharp war in th' air with beak she did prepare Gainst Serpent feeding in the Wood, after espy Cause it her Egges and young fiercely in pieces tare. The Serpent not afraid of this, leaps out of thorns With force upon the Eagle, holding tender Hare, Out of her talons by fraud and force more strong, That takes and snatches despight her enemies fear. But wary Bird avoids the force, and so they fight amain, That Victor one of them might joy the prey alone, The flying fowl by winding Snake is hunted all in vain, Though up and down his nimble eyes this and that way be gone.

In the next place we are to consider the enmity that is betwixt Dragons and Elephants, for so great is their hatred one to the other, that in Aethiopia the greatest Dragons have no other name but Elephant-killers. Among the Indians also the same hatred remaineth, against whom the Dragons have many subtile inventions: for besides the great length of their bodies, wherewithall they claspe and begirt the body of the Elephant, continually biting of him until he fall down dead, and in the which fall they are also bruised to pieces; for the safegard of themselves they have this device. they get and hide themselves in trees, covering their head, and letting the other part hang down like a rope: in those trees they watch until the Elephant come to eat and crop of the branches, then suddenly before he be aware, they leap into his face, and dig out his eys, then do they clasp themselves about his neck, and with their tails or hinder-parts, beat and vex the Elephant, until they have made him breathlesse, for they strangle him with their fore-parts, as they beat them with the hind∣er, so that in this combat they both perish: and this is the disposition of the Dragon, that he ne∣ver setteth upon the Elephant, but with the advantage of the place, and namely from some high tree or rock.

Sometimes again a multitude of Dragons do together observe the paths of the Elephants, & cross those paths they tie together their tails as it were in knots, so that when the Elepant cometh along in them, they insnare his legs, and suddenly leap up to his eyes, for that is the part they aim at above all other, which they speedily pull out, and so not being able to do him any harm, the poor beast delivereth himself from present death by his own strength, and yet through his blindenesse received in that combat, he perisheth by hunger, because he cannot choose his meat by smelling, but by his eye-sight.

There is no man living that is able to give a sufficient reason of this contrariety in nature betwixt the Elephant and the Dragon, although many men have laboured their wits, and strained their in∣ventions to finde out the true causes thereof, but all in vain, except this be one that followeth. The Elephants bloud is said to be the coldest of all other Beasts, and for this cause it is thought by most Writers, that the Dragons in the Summer time do hide themselves in great plenty in the waters where the Elephant cometh to drink, and then suddenly they leap up upon his ears, because those places cannot be defended with his trunck, and there they hang fast, and suck out all the bloud of his body, until such a time as he poor beast through faintnesse fall down and die, and they being drunk with his bloud, do likewise perish in the fall.

The Gryffins are likewise said to fight with the Dragons and overcome them. The Panther also is an enemy unto the Dragons, and driveth them many times into their dens. There is a little Bird cal∣led Captilus, by eating of which the Dragon refresheth himself when he is wearyed in hunting of other beasts. And to conclude, he is an enemy unto all kinde of beasts, both wilde and tame, as may appear by these verses of Lucan, where he saith.

—Armenta{que} tota secuti, Rumpitis ingentes amplexi verbere Tauros: Nec tutus spacio est Elephas.

Which may be Englished thus;

And following close the Heards in field, Great Bulls with force of might, And Elephants are made to yeeld By Dragons valiant sprite.

In the next place I will passe unto the poyson and venom of Dragons, omitting all Poetical dis∣courses about the worshipping and transmutation of Dragons from one kinde to another, such as are the hairs of Orpheus, or the teeth of the Dragon which Cadmus slew, into armed men, and such like fables, which have no shew nor appearance of truth, but are only the inventions of men, to utter those things in obscure terms, which they were afraid to do in plain speeches.

It is a question whether Dragons have any venom or poyson in them, for it is thought that he hurt∣eth more by the wound of his teeth, then by his poyson. Yet in Deut. 22. Moses speaketh of them as if they had poyson, saying: Their Wine is as the poyson of Dragons, and the cruel venom of Asps. So also Heliodorus speaketh of certain weapons dipped in the poyson of Dragons. For which cause we are to consider, that they wanting poyson in themselves, become venomous two manner of ways: First by the place wherein they live, for in the hotter Countries they are more apt to do harm then in the colder and more temperate, which caused the Poet in his verses to write of them in this manner following;

Vos quo{que} qui cunctis innoxi numina terris Serpitis aurato nitidi fulgore Dracones, Pestiferos ardens facit Africa: Ducitis alium Aëra cum pennis, &c.—

Which may be Englished in this manner;

You shining Dragons creeping on the earth, Which fiery Africk yeelds with skin like gold, Yet pestilent by hot infecting breath, Mounted with wings in t' air we do behold.

So that which is spoken of the poyson of Dragons infecting the air wherein they live, is to be understood of the Meteor called Draco-volans, a Fire-drake, which doth many times destroy the fruits of the earth, seeming to be a certain burning fire in the air, sometime on the Sea, & sometime on the land, whereof I have heard this credible story from men of good worth and reputation, happening about some twelve years ago, upon the Western Seas, upon the Coasts of England, which because it is well worthy to be kept in remembrance of all posterity, and containeth in it a notable work of God, I have thought good to set it down in this place.

There was an old Fisher-man, which with his two hired servants went forth to take fish, accord∣ing to his accustomed manner and occupation, and having laid their nets, watched them earnestly to finde the booty they came for, and so they continued in their labour untill mid-night or there∣abouts, taking nothing. At last there came by them a Fire-drake, at the sight whereof the old man began to be much troubled and afraid, telling his servants, that those sights seldom portended any good, and therefore prayed God to turn away all evill from them, and withall, willed his servants to take up their Nets, lest they did all repent it afterward; for he said he had known much evill fol∣low such apparitions. The young men his servants comforted him, telling him that there was no cause of fear, and that they had already committed themselves into the hands of Almighty GOD, under whose protection they would tarry untill they had taken some fish: the old man rested con∣tented with their confidence, and rather yeelded unto them, then was perswaded by them. A lit∣tle while after the Fire-drake came again, and compassed round about the Boat, and ran over the Nets, so that new fears, and more violent passions then before possessed both the old man and his servants. Wherefore they then resolved to tarry no longer, but hasted to take up their Nets and be gone. And taking up their Nets, at one place they did hang so fast, as without breaking they could not pull them out of the water, wherefore they set their Grab-hooks unto them to loose them; for the day before they remembred that a Ship was cast away in the same place, and there∣fore they thought that it might be the Nets were hanged upon some of the tacklings thereof: and therein they were not much deceived, for it happened that finding the place whereupon the Net did stay, they pulled and found some difficulty to remove it, but at last they pulled it up, and found it to be a chair of beaten gold. At the sight hereof their spirits were a little revived, because they had attained so rich a booty, and yet like men burdened with wealth, (especially the old man,) conceived new fears, and wished he were on land, lest some storm should fall, and lay both it and them the second time in the bottom of the Sea.

So great is the impression of fear, and the natural presage of evill, in men that know but little in things to come, that many times they prove true Prophets of their own destruction, although

they have little reason till the moment of perill come upon them: and so it fell out accordingly in this old man; for whilest he feared death by storms and tempests on the Sea, it came upon him, but by another way and means. For behold the Devill entred into the hearts of his two servants, and they conspired together to kill the old man their Master, that so between themselves they might be owners of that great rich chair, the value whereof (as they conceived) might make them Gen∣tlemen, and maintain them in some other Countrey all the days of their life. For such was the reso∣lution that they conceived upon the present, that it would not be safe for them to return home again after the fact committed, lest they should be apprehended for murder, as they justly deserved, their Master being so made away by them.

The Devill that had put this wicked motion into their mindes, gave them likewise present oppor∣tunity to put the same in execution, depriving them of all grace, pity, and piety, still thrusting them forward to perform the same. So that not giving him any warning of his death, one of them in most savage and cruel manner dashed out his brains, and the other speedily cast him into the Sea. And thus the fear of this old man, conceived without all reason, except superstition for the sight of a Fiery-drake, came upon him in a more bloudy manner then he expected: but life suspected it self, and rumors of peril unto guilty consciences, (such as all we mortal men bear) are many times as forcible as the sentence of a Judge to the heart of the condemned prisoner; and therefore it were happy that either we could not fear, except when the causes are certain, or else that we might never perish but upon premonition. And therefore I conclude with the example of this man, that it is not good to hold a superstitious fear, lest God see it, and being angry therewith, bring upon us the evill which we fear. But this is not the end of the story, for that Fire-drake, (as by the sequel appeareth) proved as evill to the servants as he did to the Master.

These two sons of the Devill, made thus rich by the death of their Master, forthwith they sailed towards the Coast of France, but first of all they broke the Chair in pieces, and wrapped it up in one of their Nets, making account that it was the best fish that ever was taken in that Net, and so they laid it in one end of their Bark or Fisher-boat. And thus they laboured all that night and the next day, till three or four of the clock, at what time they espyed a Port of Britain, whereof they were exceeding glad, by reason that they were weary, hungry, and thirsty with long labour, always rich in their own conceit by the gold which they had gotten, which had so drawn their hearts from God, as they could not fear any thought of his judgement; And finally it so blinded their eyes, and stopped their ears, that they did not see the vengeance that followed them, nor hear the cry of their Masters bloud. Wherefore, as they were thus rejoycing at the sight of land, behold they suddenly espyed a Man of War coming towards them, whereat they were appalled, and began to think with themselves that their rich hopes were now at an end, and they had laboured for other, but yet resol∣ved to die rather then to suffer the booty to be taken away from them And while they thus thought, the Man of War approached and hailed them, summoning them to come in and shew what they were: they refused, making forward as fast to the Land as they could. Wherefore the Man of War shot certain Muskets at them, and not prevailing, nor they yeelding, sent after them his Long∣boat, upon the entrance thereof they fought manfully against the assaylants, until one of them was slain, and the other mortally wounded; who seeing his fellow kill'd, and himself not likely to live, yet in envy against his enemy, ran presently to the place where the Chair lay in the Net, and lifting the same up with all his might, cast it from him into the Sea, instantly falling down after that fact, as one not able through weaknesse to stand any longer: whereupon he was taken and before his life left him he related the whole story to them that took him, earnestly desiring them to signifie so much into England, which they did accordingly: and as I have heard, the whole story was print∣ed, and so this second History of the punishment of murder, I have related in this place, by occa∣sion of the Fiery-drake, in the History of the Dragon.

A second cause why poyson is supposed to be in Dragons, is for that they often feed upon many venomous roots, and therefore their poyson sticketh in their teeth, whereupon many times the party bitten by them, seemeth to be poysoned; but this falleth out accidentally, not from the nature of the Dragon, but from the nature of the meat which the Dragon eateth. And this is it which Homer knew and affirmed in his verses, when he described a Dragon making his den neer unto the place where many venomous roots and herbs grew, and by eating whereof he greatly annoyeth mankinde when he biteth them.

Os de Drakoon espi Xein oresteros andra menesi Bebrocos kaka pharmaka.—

Which may be thus Englished,

And the Dragon which by men remains, Eats evill herbs without deadly pains.

And therefore Aelianus saith well, that when the Dragon meaneth to do most harm to men, he eateth deadly poysonful herbs, so that if he bite after them, many not knowing the cause of the poyson, and seeing or feeling venom by it, do attribute that to his nature which doth pro∣ceed from his meat. Besides his teeth which bite deep; he also killeth with his tail, for be * 1.233 will so begirt and pinch in the body, that he doth gripe it to death, and also the strokes of it are so strong, that either they kill thereby forthwith, or else wound greatly with the same, so

that the strokes of his tail, are more deadly then the biting of his teeth; which caused Nicander to write thus;

Nec tamen illegraves, ut caetera turba, dolores Si velit, infixo cum forte momorderit ore, Suscitat: exiguus non noxia vulnera punctus (Qui ceu rodentes noctu quaeque obvia muris) Infligit, modicum tenuis dat plaga cruorem.

Which may be thus Englished;

Nor yet he when with his angry mouth Doth bite, such pains and torments bringeth As other Serpents, if Ancients tell the truth, When with his teeth and spear he stingeth: For as the holes which biting Mice do leave, When in the night they light upon a prey, So small are Dragons-bites which men receive, And harmlesse wound makes bloud to run away.

Their mouth is small, and by reason thereof they cannot open it wide to bite deep, so as their bi∣ting * 1.234 maketh no great pain; and those kinde of Dragons which do principally fight with Eagles, are defended more with their tails then with their teeth: but yet there are some other kinde of Dra∣gons, whose teeth are like the teeth of Bears, biting deep, and opening their mouth wide, wherewith∣all they break bones, and make many bruises in the body, and the males of this kinde bite deeper then the females, yet there followeth no great pain upon the wound.

The cure hereof is like to the cure for the biting of any other Beast wherein there is no venom, and for this cause there must be nothing applyed thereunto which cureth venomous bitings, but rather such things as are ordinary in the cure of every Ulcer.

The seed of grasse, commonly called Hay-dust, is prescribed against the biting of Dragons. The Barble being rubbed upon the place where a Scorpion of the earth, a Spider, a Sea or Land-dragon biteth, doth perfectly cure the same. Also the head of a Dog or Dragon which hath bitten any one, being cut off and flayed, and applyed to the wound with a little Euphorbium, is said to cure the wound speedily.

And if Alberdisimon be the same that is a Dragon, then according to the opinion of Avicen, the cure of it must be very present, as in the cure of Ulcers. And if Alhatraf and Haudem be of the kinde of Dragons, then after their biting there follow great coldnesse and stupidity; and the cure thereof must be the same means which is observed in cold poysons. For which cause the wound or place bit∣ten, must be embrewed or washed with luke-warm Vinegar, and emplaistered with the leaves of Bay, anointed with the Oyl of herb-Mary, and the Oyl of Wilde-pellitory, or such things as are drawn out of those Oyls, wherein is the vertue of Nettles, or Sea-onions.

But those things which are given unto the patient to drink, must be the juyce of Bay-leaves in Vinegar, or else equall portions of Myrrhe, Pepper, and Rew in Wine, the powder or dust whereof must be the full weight of a golden groat, or as we say a French Crown.

In the next place, for the conclusion of the History of the Dragon, we will take our farewell of him in the recital of his medicinal vertues, which are briefly these that follow.

First, the fat of a Dragon dryed in the Sun, is good against creeping Ulcers: and the same mingled with Honey and Oyl, helpeth the dimnesse of the eyes at the beginning. The head of a Dragon keepeth one from looking asquint: and if it be set up at the gates and dores, it hath been thought in ancient time to be very fortunate to the sincere worshippers of GOD. The eyes being kept till they be stale, and afterwards beat into an Oyl with Honey made into Ointment, keep any one that useth it from the terrour of night-visions and apparitions.

The fat of a Hart in the skin of a Roe, bound with the nerves of a Hart unto the shoulder, was thought to have a vertue to fore-shew the judgement of victories to come. The first spindle by bear∣ing of it, procureth an easie passage for the pacification of higher powers. His teeth bound unto the feet of a Roe, with the nerves of a Hart, have the same power. But of all other, there is no folly comparable to the composition which the Magitians draw out of a Dragon to make one invincible, and that is this: They take the head and tail of a Dragon, with the hairs out of the fore-head of a Lyon, and the marrow of a Lyon; the spume or white mouth of a conquering Horse, bound up in a Harts skin, together with a claw of a Dog, and fastned with the crosse nerves or sinew of a Hart, or of a Roe; they say that this hath as much power to make one invincible, as hath any medicine or remedy whatsoever.

The fat of Dragons is of such vertue that it driveth away venomous beasts. It is also reported, that by the tongue or gall of a Dragon sod in Wine, men are delivered from the spirits of the night, called Incubi and Succubi, or else Night-mares. But above all other parts, the use of their bloud is ac∣counted most notable. But whether the Cynnabaris be the same which is made of the bloud of the Dra∣gons and Elephants, collected from the earth when the Dragon and Elephant fall down dead toge∣ther, according as Pliny delivereth, I will not here dispute, seeing it is already done in the story of the Elephant: neither will I write any more of this matter in this place, but only refer the Rea∣der unto that which he shall finde written thereof in the History of our former Book of Four-footed Beasts.

And if that satisfie him not, let him read Langius in the first book of his Epistles, and sixty five Epistle, where that learned man doth abundantly satisfie all men concerning this question, that are studious of the truth, and not prone to contention. And to conclude, Andreas Balvacensis writeth, that the Bloud-stone called the Haematite, is made of the Dragons bloud: and thus I will con∣clude

the History of the Dragon, with this story following out of Porphyrius, concerning the good successe which hath been signified unto men and women, either by the dreams or sight of Dra∣gons.

Mammea the Mother of Alexander Severus the Emperor, the night before his birth, dreamed that she brought forth a little Dragon, so also did Olympia the Mother of Alexander the Great, and Pom∣ponia the Mother of Scipio Africanus. The like prodigy gave Augustus hope that he should be Empe∣ror. For when his Mother Aetia came in the night time unto the Temple of Apollo, and had set down her bed or couch in the Temple among other Matrons, suddenly she fell asleep, and in her sleep she dreamed that a Dragon came to her, and clasped about her body, and so departed without doing her any harm. Afterwards the print of a Dragon remained perpetually upon her belly, so as she never durst any more be seen in any bath.

The Emperor Tiberius Caesar, had a Dragon which he daily fed with his own hands, and nourished like good fortune, at the last it happened that this Dragon was defaced with the biting of Emmets, and thef ormer beauty of his body much obscured: Wherefore the Emperor grew greatly amazed thereat, and demanding a reason thereof of the Wisemen, he was by them admonished to beware the insurrection of the common people. And thus with these stories representing good and evill by the Dragon, I will take my leave of this good and evill Serpent.

Of the DRYINE.

[illustration]

THere be some that confound this Serpent with the Water-snake, and say it is none other then that which of ancient time was called Hydrus, for so long as they live in the water, they are called Hydri, that is, Snakes of the water, but when once they come to the land, they are cal∣led Chelidri, and Chersydri: but it is certain that the Chelidrus, is differ∣ent from the Chersydrus, by the strong smell and savour which it carryeth with it wheresoever it goeth, ac∣cording to these verses made of Ʋmbo the Priest in Virgil.

Viperio generi & graviter spirantibus Hydris, Spargere qui somnos cantu{que} manu{que} solebat.

Which may be Englished thus;

Who could by song and hand bring into deadly sleep All kinde of Vipers, with Snakes smelling strong and deep.

Which being compared with that instruction which he giveth to Shepheards, teaching them how to drive away the strong smelling Serpents from the folds, he calleth them Chelydri, when he writeth in this manner;

Disce & odoratam stabulis accendere Cedrum, Galbanio{que} agitare graves nidore Chelydros.

That is to say in English thus;

Learn how to drive away strong smelling Chelyders From folds, by Galbanum and savoury Cedars.

So that it is clear that these Dryines are the same which are called Chelydri, who do stink on the face of the earth, whereby they are oftentimes disclosed although they be not seen: howbeit, some think that this filthy favour doth not proceed from any fume or smoak coming out of their bodies, but rather from their motion, according to the opinion of Macer in these following verses.

Seu terga expirant spumantia Virus Seu terra fumat qua teter labitur Anguis.

Which may be Englished in this manner;

Whether their foming backs that smell Do send abroad such poyson pestilent, Or whether th' earth whereon this Snake full fell Doth slide, yeelds that unwholesome sent.

It is said that these Dryines do live in the bottom or roots of Oaks, where they make their nests, for which cause they be called Quetculi, as if they were derived from an Oak, which caused the Countrey people to call it Dendrogailla, which signifieth the male and female in this kinde: being bred only in one part of Africk and in Hellespont, and there be of them two kindes, one of the length of two cubits, being very fat and round, and very sharp scales over the back; and they are called Druinae of D••us, that signifieth an Oak, because they live in bottom of Oaks: and they are also cal∣led Chelydri, because of their sharp skins or scales, for it is the manner of the Latines and the Gre∣cians, to call the hard and rough skin of the body of man and beast, by the name of Chelydra: and I take the Serpents Cylmdri, to be the same that the Dryines be. Within the scales of this Serpent there are bred certain Flyes with yellow wings, as yellow as any Brasse, the which Flyes at length do eat and destroy the Serpent that breedeth them. The colour of their back is blackish, and not * 1.235 white as some have thought, and the savour or smell coming from them like to the smell of a Horses hide, wet as it cometh out of the pit, to be shaven by the hand of a Tawyer or Glover. And Bello∣nius writeth, that he never saw any Serpent greater then this Dryine, which he calleth Dendrozailla, nor any that hisseth stronger; for he affirmeth, that one of these put into a sack, was more then a strong Countreyman could carry two miles together without setting it down and resting. And likewise he saith, that he saw a skin of one of these stuffed with hair, which did equall in quantity the leg of a great man. The head of this beast is broad and flat, and Olaus Magnus writeth, that many times, and in many places of the North, about the beginning of Summer these Serpents are found in great companies under Oaks, one of them being their head or Captain, who is known by a white crest or comb on the top of his crown, whom all the residue do follow, as the Bees do their King and Captain. And these by the relation of old men are thought to beget a certain stone, by their muta∣ble breathing upon some venomous matter, found in the trees leaves, or earth where they abide: For they abide not only in the roots, but in the hollow bodies of the trees, and sometimes for their meat and food, they leave their habitation, and descend into the Fens and Marishes to hunt Frogs: and if at any time they be assaulted with the Horse-flie, they instantly return back again into their former habitation. When they go upon the earth, they go directly or straight, for if they should winde themselves to run, they would make an offensive noise, or rather yeeld a more offensive smell: according to these verses of the Poet Lucan;

Natrix & ambiguae ooleret qui Syrtidos arva Chersidros, tracti{que} via fumante Chelydri.

In English thus;

The Snake which hant the doubtful Syrtes sands, And Chelyders by sliding fume on lands.

Georgius Fabricius writeth, that he saw in the Temple of Bacchus at Rome, a company of drunken men dancing, leading a male Goat for sacrifice, having Snakes in their mouths, which Snakes Pru∣dentius the Christian poet calleth Chlydri, that is, Dryines in these verses following;

—Baccho caper omnibus aris Caeditur, & virides discindunt ore Chelydros, Qui Bromium placare volunt, quod & ebria jam tum Ante oculos regis Satyrorum insania fecit.

In English thus;

A Goat to Bacchus on every altar lies, While sacrificers tear Dryines in pieces small By force of teeth, and that before the eyes Of Satyres King, mad drunk they fall.

The nature of this Serpent is very venomous and hot, and therefore it is worthily placed among the first degree or rank of Serpents, for the smell thereof doth so stupifie a man, as it doth near strangle him, for nature refuseth to breath, rather then to draw in such a filthy air. And so pestilent is the nature of this Beast, that it maketh the skin of the body of a man hurt by it, loose, stinking, and rotten, the eyes to be blinde and full of pain, it restraineth the urine, and if it come upon a man sleeping, it causeth often neezing, and maketh to vomit bloudy matter. If a man tread upon it un∣awares, although it neither sting nor bite him, yet it causeth his legs to swell, and his foot to lose the skin thereof: and that which is more strange, it is reported, that when a Physitian cured the hand of one bitten by this Serpent, the skin of his hand also came off, and whosoever killeth one of these, if once he smell the savour of it, whatsoever he smelleth afterwards, he still thinketh it smelleth of the Dryine. And therefore most pestilent must this Serpent needs be, which killeth both touching and smelling.

When it hath wounded or bitten, there followeth a black or red swelling about the sore, also a vehement pain over all the body through the speedy dispersing of the poyson; also Pu∣siules or little wheals, madnesse, drinesse of the body, and intolerable thirst, trembling and mor∣tification of the members wounded, whereof many die. The cure is like to the cure of Vipers, and

besides it is good to take Hart-wort drunk in Wine, or Trifoly, or the roots of Daffadil. Acorns of all kinde of Oaks, are profitable against this poyson, being beaten to powder and drunk. And thus much shall suffice for this Serpent.

Of the Serpents called ELEPHANTS.

THere be also Serpents called Elephants, because whomsoever they bite, they infect with a kinde of leprosie, and I know not whether the Serpent Elops, Elopis, and Laphiati be the same, but because I finde no matter worthy in them to be spoken of, and they are strangers in our Countrey, the Reader must be contented with their bare names without further description.

Of FROGS.

[illustration]

FRogs are called by the Hebrews, Zab, Zephardea, Ʋrdeana, and Ʋrdea Akruka, and Maskar; by the Arabians, Hardun, Difdah, Dijphoa, Difdapha, Altahaul; by the Grecians, Batrachos: whereof cometh the corrupted word Brackatas, and Garazum. Lalages and Kembroie, signifieth green Frogs; the Italians and Spaniards call it Rana, by the Latine word; the French, Grenoville; the Germans, Frosch, and Frosche, and Grassfroch, for a green Frog. The Flemings, Ʋrosch, and Ʋruesch, and Pivit; the Illyti∣ans and Polonians, Zaba, by a word derived from the Hebrew. It is some question from whence the word Rana is derived, and because of much controversie whether it hath received name, because it liveth on the land and in the water, or from the croaking voyce which it useth: I will not trouble the English Reader with that discourse, only I am assured, that the word Frog in English, is derived from the German word Frosch, as many other English words are derived besides the common name of many Frogs. Homer in his Comedy of the fight betwixt Frogs and Mice called Batrachomyomachia, hath devised many proper names for Frogs, such as these are; Limnocharis, Gracediet, Pleus, Dust∣liver; Hydromedousa, Water-hunter; Phusignathos, Nature-cryer; Hypsiboas, Loud-cryer: Leuthai••s, Love-liver; Poluphonos, great Labourer; Krambophagos, Brasil-eater; Lymnesios, Pool-keeper; Kala∣minthius, Mint-eater; Hydrocharis, Water-childe; Borborokoites, Noise-maker; Prassaphagos, Grass-eater; Pelousios, dust-creeper; Pelobates, dust-leaper; Krawgasides, drought-hater; Prassaios, Grasse-green: and such other like, according to the witty invention of the Author, all which I thought good to name in this place, as belonginging to this History.

In the next place we are to consider the diversity and kindes of Frogs, as they are distinguished by the place of their abode: for the greatest difference is drawn from thence; some of them therefore are Water-frogs, and some are Frogs of the land: the Water-frogs live both in the water and on the land, in marishes, standing pools, running streams, and banks of Rivers, but never in the Sea; and therefore Rana Marina is to be understood of a Fish, and not a Frog, as Massarius hath learnedly proved against Marcellus. The Frogs of the land are distinguished by their living in Gardens, in Med∣dows, in hollow Rocks, and among fruits: all which several differences shall be afterward expressed, with their pictures in their due places: here only I purpose to talk of the vulgar and common Frog, whose picture with her young one is formerly expressed. Beside, these differ in generation: for some of them are engendered by carnal copulation, and of the slime and rottennesse of the earth. Some are of a green colour, and those are eaten in Germany and in Flanders; some again are yellow, and some of an Ash-colour, some spotted, and some black, and in outward form and fashion they resemble a Toad, but yet they are without venom, and the female is always greater then the male: when the Egyptians will signifie an impudent man, and yet one that hath a good quick sight, they picture a Frog, because he liveth continually in the mire, and hath no bloud in his body, but about his eyes.

The tongue is proper to this kinde, for the fore-part thereof cleaveth to the mouth, as in a fish, and the hinder part to the throat, by which he sendeth forth his voyce; and this is to be understood, that all Frogs are mute and dum, except the green Frogs, and the Frogs of the water, for these have voyces. And many times the voyces of Frogs proceedeth from the nature of the Countries wherein

they live: for once all the Frogs, in Macedonia and Cyrenia, were dum, until there were some brought thither out of some other Countries, as at this day the Frogs of Seriphus are all dum, whereupon came the Proverb, Batrachos ec Seriphon, A Frog of Seriphus, because the Frogs of that Countrey do never croak, although you carry them into any other Countrey.

This Seriphus is one of the Islands of the Sporades in Greece, wherein is the lake called Pierius, which doth not run in the Summer, but only in the Winter, and all the Frogs which are cast into that lake, are perpetually silent, and never utter their voyce; whereof there are assigned two causes, one fa∣bulous, and the other true and natural. The first, the Seriphians say, that when Perseus returned with the head of Medusa, having gone very far till he was weary, laid him down beside that lake to sleep, but the croaking Frogs made such a noise, as he could take no rest: Whereat Perseus was much offended; and therefore prayed Jupiter to forbid the Frogs from crying, who instantly heard his pray∣er, and injoyned perpetual silence to the Frogs in that water: and this is the fabulous reason, being a meer fiction of the Poets.

The second and more true reason is that of Theophrastus, who saith, that for the coldnesse of the water, the Frogs are not able to cry in that place. The voyce of Frogs is said by the Latinists to be Coaxare, and by the Grecians, Ololugon; peculiar words to set forth this crying: now because their tongue cleaveth to the palat of their mouth, and their voyce proceedeth but from their throat to their mouth, and the spirit is hindered by the tongue, so as it cannot proceed directly; therefore it hath two bladders upon either side of the mouth, one which it filleth with winde, and from thence proceedeth the voyce. Now when it croaketh, it putteth his head out of the water, holding the nea∣ther lip even with the water, and the upper lip above the water: and this is the voyce of the male provoking the female to carnal copulation.

They have but very small lungs, and those without bloud, full of froth like to all other creatures of the water, which do lay egges, and for this cause they do never thirst: wherefore also Sea-calves and Frogs are able to live long under the water. They have a double Liver; and a very small milt, their legs behinde are long, which maketh them apt to leap; before they are shorter, having divided claws which are joyned together with a thin broad skin, that maketh them more apt to swim. The most place of their abode is in fens, or in warm waters, or in fish-pools: but yellow and ash-colour∣ed Frogs abide in Rivers Lakes, and standing Pools, but in the Winter time they all hide themselves in the earth. And therefore it is not true that Pliny saith, that in the Winter time they are resolved into slime, and in Summer they resume again their first bodies, for they are to be seen many times in the Winter; especially in those waters that are never frozen, as Agrecolaand Mathiolus hath soundly observed, and they have been seen in certain running streams, holding small fishes in their mouths, as it were sucking meat out of them.

Sometimes they enter into their holes in Autumn before Winter, and in the Spring time come out again. When with their croaking voyces the male provoketh the female to carnal copulation, which he performeth not by the mouth (as some have thought) but by covering her back: the in∣strument of generation meeting in the hinder parts, and this they perform in the night season, na∣ture teaching them the modesty or shamefastnesse of this action: And besides in that time they have more security to give themselves to mutual imbraces, because of a general quietnesse, for men and all other their adversaries are then at sleep and rest. After their copulation in the waters, there ap∣peareth a thick jelly, out of which the young one is found. But the land Frogs are ingendered out of Egs, of whom we discourse at this present; and therefore they both suffer copulation, lay their Egges and bring forth young ones on the land. When the Egge breaketh or is hatched, there cometh forth a little black thing like a piece of flesh, which the Latines call Gyrini, from the Greek word Gy∣rinos, having no visible part of a living creature upon them, besides their eyes and their tails, and within short space after their feet are formed, and their tail divided into two parts, which tail be∣cometh their hinder-legs: wherefore when the Aegyptians would describe a man that cannot move himself, and afterwards recovereth his motion, they decipher him by a Frog, having his hinder-legs. The heads of these young Gyrini, which we call in English Horse-nails; because they resemble a Horse-nail in their similitude, whose head is great, and the other part small, for with his tail he swimmeth. After May they grow to have feet, and if before that time they be taken out of the water, they die, when they begin to have four feet.

And first of all they are of a black colour and round, and hereof came the Proverb, Rana Gyrina sapientior, wiser then a Horse-nail; because through the roundnesse and volubility of his body, it turneth it self with wonderful celerity, which way soever it pleaseth. These young ones are also called by the Grecians, Molurida, Brutichoi, and Batrachidae, but the Latines have no name for it, except Ranunculus, or Rana nasoens. And it is to be remembred, that one Frog layeth an in∣numerable company of Egges, which cleave together in the water, in the middle whereof she her self lodgeth. And thus much may suffice for the ordinary procreation of Frogs by genera∣tion out of Egges. In the next place I must also shew how they are likewise ingendered out of the dust of the earth by warm, aestive, and Summer showers, whose life is short, and there is no use of them.

Aelianus saith, that as he travailed out of Italy into Naples, he saw divers Frogs by the way near Puteoli, whose fore-part and head did move and creep, but their hinder-part was unformed and like to the slime of the earth, which caused Ovid to write thus;

Semina limus habet virides generantia Ranas, Et generat truncas pedibus, & eodem corpore saepe Altera pars vivit, rudis est pars altera tellus.

That is to say;

Durt hath his seed ingendring Frogs full green, Yet so as feetlesse without legs on earth they lie, So as a wonder unto passengers is seen, One part hath life, the other earth full dead is nye.

And of these Frogs it is that Pliny was to be understood, when he saith, that Frogs in the Winter time are resolved into slime, and in the Summer they recover their life and substance again. It is cer∣tain also, that sometime it raineth Frogs, as may appear by Philarchus and Lembus, for Lembus writeth thus: Once about Dardania, and Paeonia, it rained Frogs in such plentiful measure, or rather prodi∣gious manner, that all the houses and high ways were filled with them, and the Inhabitants did first of all kill them, but afterwards perceiving no benefit thereby, they shut their doores against them, and stopped up all their lights to exclude them out of their houses, leaving no passage open, so much as a Frog might creep into, and yet notwithstanding all this diligence, their meat seething on the fire, or set on the table, could not be free from them, but continually they found Frogs in it, so as at last they were inforced to forsake that Countrey. It was likewise reported, that certain Indians and peo∣ple of Arabia, were inforced to forsake their Countries through the multitude of Frogs.

Cardan seemeth to finde a reason in nature for this raining of Frogs, the which for the better satis∣faction of the Reader, I will here expresse as followeth: Fiunt haec omnia ventorum ira, and so forward in his 16. Book De Subtilitate, that is to say; these prodigious rains of Frogs and Mice, little fishes and stones, and such like things is not to be wondered at: for it cometh to passe by the rage of the windes in the tops of the Mountains, or the uppermost part of the Seas, which many times taketh up the dust of the earth and congealeth them into stones in the air, which afterwards fall down in rain; so also doth it take up Frogs and Fishes, who being above in the air, must needs fall down again. Sometimes also it taketh up the egges of Frogs and Fishes, which being kept aloft in the air among the whirl-windes, and storms of shewers, do there engender and bring forth young ones, which afterwards fall down upon the earth, there being no pool for them in the air. These and such like reasons are approved among the learned for natural causes of the prodigious raining of Frogs.

But we read in holy Scripture among the plagues of Egypt, that Frogs were sent by God to annoy them; and therefore whatsoever is the material cause, it is most certain that the wrath of God and his Almighty hand, is the making or efficient cause, and for the worthinesse of that divine sto∣ry, how God maketh and taketh away Frogs, I will expresse it as it is left by the holy Ghost, in ch. 8. Exod. ver. 5. Also the Lord said unto Moses, say thou unto Aaron, stretch thou out thy band with thy rod upon the streams, upon the rivers, and upon the ponds, and cause Frogs to come upon the land of Egypt. Ver. 6. Then Aaron stretched out his hand upon the waters of Egypt, and the Frogs came up and covered the land of Egypt. Vers. 7. And the Sorcerers did likewise with their Sorceries, and brought Frogs upon the land of Egypt. Vers. 8. Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said; Pray ye unto the Lord, that he may take away the Frogs from me, and from my people, and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice to the Lord. Vers. 9. And Moses said unto Pharaoh, concerning me, Command when I shall pray for thee and thy servants, and thy people, to destroy the Frogs from thee, and from thy houses, that they may remain in the River only. Vers. 10. Then he said to morrow, and he answered, Be it as thou hast said, that thou mayst know that there is none like the Lord our God. Vers. 11. So the Frogs shall depart from thee, and from thy houses, and from thy people, and from thy servants, only they shall remain in the River. Ver. 12. Then Moses and Aaron went out from Pharaoh, and Moses cryed unto the Lord concerning the Frogs which he had sent unto Pharaoh. Vers. 13. And the Lord did according to the saying of Moses, so the Frogs dyed in the houses, and in the Towns, and in the fields. Vers. 14. And they gathered them together by heaps, and the land stank of them, &c.

And this was the second plague of Egypt, wherein the Lord turned all the Fishes into Frogs: as the Book of Wisdom saith, and the Frogs ahounded in the Kings chamber: and notwithstanding this great judgement of God for the present, Pharaoh would not let the people go, and afterwards that blinde superstitious Nation became worshippers of Frogs, (as Philastrius writeth) thinking by this devotion, or rather wickednesse in this observant manner, to pacifie the wrath of God, choosing their own ways before the word of Almighty God: But vain is that worship which is invented without heavenly warrant, and better it is to be obedient to the will of God, then go about to please him with the cogitations of men, although in their pretended holinesse we spend much time, wealth, and bloud.

There was one Cypselus, the father of Periander, who by his mother was hid in a Chest called Kypse∣le, to be preserved from the hands of certain murtherers, which were sent to kill him. Wherefore afterwards the said Cypselus consecrated a house at Delphos to Apollo, because he heard his crying when he was hid in a chest, and preserved him. In the bottom of that house, was the trunk of a Palm-tree and certain Frogs pictured running out of the same: but what was meant thereby is not certainly known, for neither Plutarch which writeth the story, nor Chersias which relateth it, giveth any sig∣nification

thereof: but in another place where he enquireth the reason why the Oracle of Pythias gave no answer, he conjectured because it was that the accursed thing brought out of the Temple of Apollo from Delphos, into the Corinthian house, had ingraven underneath the Brazen Palm, Snakes, and Frogs, or else for the signification of the Sun rising.

The meat of Frogs thus brought forth are green herbs and Humble-bees, or Shorn-bugs, which they devour or catch when they come to the water to drink: sometime also they are said to eat earth, but as well Frogs as Toads do eat the dead Mole, for the Mole devoureth them being alive. In * 1.236 the moneth of August, they never open their mouths, either to take in meat or drink, or to utter any voyce, and their chaps are so fast joyned or closed together, that you can hardly open them with your finger, or with a stick. The young ones of this kinde are killed by casting Long-wort, or the leaves of Sea-lettice, as Aelianus and Suidas write: and thus much for the description of their parts, generation, and sustentation of these common Frogs.

The wisdom or disposition of the Aegyptian Frogs is much commended, for they save themselves from their enemies with singular dexterity. If they fall at any time upon a Water-snake, which they know is their mortal enemy, they take in their mouths a round Reed, which with an invincible strength they hold fast, never letting go, although the Snake have gotten her into her mouth, for by this means the Snake cannot swallow her, and so she is preserved alive.

There is a pretty fable of a great Bull which came to the water to quench his thirst, and whilest the Beast came running greedily into the water, he trod in pieces two or three young Frogs; then one of them which escaped with life, went and told his mother the miserable misfortune and chance of his fellows: she asked who it was that had so killed her young ones, to whom he answered: It was a great one, but how great he could not tell; the foolish Mother-frog desirous to have seen some body in the eyes of her son, began to swell with holding in of her breath, and then asked the young one if the Beast were as big as she? And he answered much greater, at which words she began to swel more, and asked him again if the Beast were so big? To whom the young one answered, Mother leave your swelling, for though you break your self, you will never be so big as he: and I think from this fable came the Proverb, Rana Gyrina sapientior, wiser then the young Frog. This is excellently descri∣bed by Horace in his third Satyre, as followeth;

Absentis ranae pullis vituli pede pressis Ʋnus ubi effugit matri denarrat, ut ingens Bellua cognates eliserit, illa rogare, Quantánt? Num tandem, se inflans sic magna fuisset? Major dimidio: Num tanto? Cum magis at{que} Se magis inflaret, non si te ruperis, inquit, Par eris: haec à te non multum abludit imago.

Which may be Englished thus;

In old Frogs absence, the young were prest to death By feet of a great Calf, drinking in the water, To tell the dam, one ran that scap't with life and breath, How a great heast her young to death did scatter. How great said she? so big? and then did swell. Greater by half, said he: then she swoll more, and said Thus big? but he: cease swelling dam, for I thee tell, Though break thy self, like him thou never canst be made.

There is another pretty fable in Esop, tasking discontented persons under the name of Frogs, ac∣cording to the old verse:

Et veterem in limo ranae cacinere querelam, Nam neque sicca placet, nec quae stagnata palude Perpetitur, querulae semper convitia ranae.

Which may be Englished in this manner;

The Frogs amidst the earthly slime, Their old complaints do daily sing: Not pleas'd with pools, nor land that drine, But new displeasures daily bring.

When Ceres went about seeking Proserpina, she came to a certain Fountain in Lycia to quench her thirst, the uncivil Lycians hindered her from drinking, both by troubling the water with their feet, and also by sending into the water a great company of croaking Frogs; whereat the Goddesse be∣ing angry, turned all those Countrey people into Frogs. But Ovid doth ascribe this transmutation of the Lycians, to the prayer of Latona, when she came to drink of the Fountain to increase the milk in her breasts, at such a time as she nursed Apollo and Diana, which Metamorphosis or transmutation, is thus excellently described by Ovid;

Aeternum stagno (dixit) vivatis in isto. Eveniunt optata deae, jnvat esse sub undis, Et modo to••a cava summergere membra palud••, Nunc proferre caput, summo modo gurgite nare, Saepe super ripam stagni consistere, saepe In gelidos resi••ire lacus, sed nunc quoque turpes Litibus exercent linguas, pulsoque pudore Quamvis sint sub aqua, sub aqua male dicere tentant.

Vox quoque jam rauc•• est, inflata{que} colla tumescunt: Iplaque dilatant patulos convitia rictus. Terg•• caput ••angunt, colla intercepta videntur. Spina viret, venter pars maxima corporis albet, Limoso{que} novae saliunt in gurgite ranae.

In English thus;

—For ever mought you dwell In this same pond she said: her wish did take effect with speed, For underneath the water they delight to be indeed: Now dive they to the bottom down, now up their heads they pop, Another while with sprawling legs they swim upon the top, And oftentimes upon the banks they have a minde to stond, And oftentimes from thence again to leap into the pond: And there they now do practise still their filthy tongues to scold, And shamelesly, though underneath the water they do hold Their former wont of brauling, still avoid the water cold: Their voyces still are hoarse and harsh, their throats have puffed goawls, Their chaps with brawling widened are, their hammer-headed joawles, Are joyned to their shoulders just, the necks of them do seem Cut off: the ridge bone of their back sticks up with colour green. Their panch which is the greatest part of all their trunck is gray, And so they up and down the pond made newly Frogs do play.

Whatsoever the wisdom of Frogs is, according to the understanding of the Poets, this is certain, that they signifie impudent and contentious persons, for this cause there is a pretty fiction in Hell betwixt the two Poets, Furipides and Aeschylus: for the ending of which controversie, Bacchus was sent down to take the worthyest of them out of Hell into Heaven: and as he went over Charons Ferry, he heard nothing but the croaking of Frogs, for such contentious spirits do best befit Hell. And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of the wisedom of Frogs.

Their common enemies are the Weasels, Poul-cats, and Ferrets, for these do gather them toge∣ther, and lay of them great heaps within their dens: whereupon they feed in Winter. The Hearn also and Bittern, is a common destroyer of Frogs, and so likewise are some kinde of Kites. The Night-birds, Gimus and Gimeta, the Water-snake (at whose presence in token of extream terror) the Frog setteth up her voyce in lamentable manner. The Moles are also enemies to Frogs, and it is further said; that if a burning Candle be set by the water side, during the croaking of Frogs, it will make them hold their peace. Men do also take Frogs, for they were wont to bait a hook with a little red wooll, or a piece of red cloth, also the gall of a Goat put into a vessel, and set in the earth, will quickly draw unto it all the Frogs that be near it, as if it were unto them a very grateful thing: And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of the enemies of Frogs. Now in the next place we are to consider the several uses, both Natural, Medicinal, and Magical, which men do make of Frogs.

And first of all the green Frogs, and some of the yellow which live in Flouds, Rivers, Lakes, and Fish-pools, are eaten by men; although in ancient time they were not eaten, but only for Physick, for the broth wherein they were sod, and the flesh also, was thought to have vertue in it to cure them which were strucken by any venomous creeping Beast, especially mixed with Salt and Oyl: but since that time Aetius discommendeth the eating of Frogs, proving that some of them are venomous, and that by eating thereof, extream vomits have followed, and they can never be good, except when they are newly taken, and their skins diligently flayed off, and those also out of pure running waters and not out of muddy stinking puddles: and therefore adviseth to forbear in plenty of other meat, this wanton eating of Frogs, as things perilous to life and health, and those Frogs also which are most white when the skin is taken off, are most dangerous and fullest of venom, according to the counsel of Fiera, saying;

Ʋltima, sed nostros non accessura lebetes, Noluimus, succi est pluvii & limosa maligni. Ni saliat, putris rana paraba titer. Irata est & adhuc rauca coaxat aquis.

In English thus;

We will not dresse a Frog unlesse the last of all to eat, Because the juyce thereof is muddy and of rain unclean, Except it go on earth, prepared way to leap. For, angry it ever is, and hath hoarse voyce amid the stream.

They which use to eat Frogs, fall to have a colour like lead, and the hotter the Countries are, the more venomous are the Frogs; in colder Countries, as in Germany they are not so harmful, especially after the Spring of the year, and their time of copulation passed. Besides, with the flesh of Frogs, they were wont in ancient time to bait their hooks, wherewithal they did take purple Fishes, and they did burn the young Frogs, putting the powder thereof into a Cat, whose bowels was taken out, then rosting the Cat, and after she was roasted, they anointed her all over with Honey, then

••aid her by a Wood side, by the odour and savour whereof, all the Wolfs and Foxes lodging in the said Wood were allured to come to it, and then the Hunters lying ready in wait, did take, destroy, and kill them. When Frogs do croak above their usual custom, either more often, or more shrill then they were wont to do: they do foreshew rain and tempestuous weather.

Wherefore Tully saith in his first Book of Divination, who is it that can suspect, or once think that the little Frog should know thus much, but there is in them an admirable understanding nature, constant and open to it self, but more secret and obscure to the knowledge of men; and therefore speaking to the Frogs, he citeth these verses;

Vos quo{que} signa videtis aquai dulcis alumnae, Cum clamore paratis inanes fundere voces, Absurdo{que} sono fontes & stagna cietis.

In English thus;

And you O Water-birds which dwell in streams so sweet, Do see the signes whereby the weather is foretold, Your crying voyces wherewith the waters are repleat, Vain sounds, absurdly moving ools and Fountains cold.

And thus much for the natural use of Frogs. Now followeth the Magical. It is said that if a man * 1.237 take the tongue of a Water-frog, and lay it upon the head of one that is asleep, he shall speak in his sleep, and reveal the secrets of his heart: but if he will know the secrets of a woman, then must he cut it out of the Frog alive, and turn the Frog away again, making certain characters upon the Frogs tongue, and so lay the same upon the panting of a womans heart, and let him ask her what questions he will, she shall answer unto him all the truth, and reveal all the secret faults that ever she hath committed. Now if this magical foolery were true, we had more need of Frogs then of J••stices of Peace, or Magistrates in the Common-wealth.

But to proceed a little further, and to detect the vanity of these men, they also say, that the staffe wherewithal a Frog is struck out of a Snakes mouth, laid upon a woman in travail, shall cause an ea∣sie deliverance: and if a Man cut off a foot of a Frog as he swims in the water▪ and binde the same to one that hath the Gout, it will cure him. And this is as true as a shoulder of Mutton worn in ones Hat healeth the Tooth-ach.

Some again do write, that if a woman take a Frog, and spit three times in her mouth, she shall not conceive with childe that year. Also if Dogs eat the pottage wherein a Frog hath been sod, it maketh him dum and cannot bark. And if a Man cast a sod Frog at a Dog, which is ready to as∣sault him, it will make him run away, (I think as fast as an old hungry Horse from a bottle of Hay.) These and such like vanities have the ancient Heathens (ignorant of GOD) firmly believed, till ei∣ther experience disapproved their inventions, or the sincere knowledge of Religion inlightning their darknesse, made them to forsake their former vain errors, which I would to GOD had come sooner unto them, that so they might never have sinned; or else being now come unto us their chil∣dren, I pray GOD that it may never be removed, lest by trusting in lying vanities, we forsake our own mercy. And so an end of the Magical Uses. Now we proceed to the Medicinal, in the biting of every venomous creature. Frogs sod or roasted, are profitable, especially the broth, if it be given to the sick person without his knowledge, mixed with Oyl and Salt, as we have said already. The flesh of Water frogs is good against the biting of the Sea-hare, the Scorpion, and all kinde of Serpents; against Leprosie and scabs, and rubbed upon the body, it doth cure the same.

The broath taken into the body with roots of Sea-holm, expelleth the Salamander: so also the Egges of the Frog, and the Egges of the Tortoise, hath the same operation, being sod with Ca∣laminth. The little Frogs are an antidote against the Toads and great Frogs. Albertus also among other remedies, prescribeth a Frog to be given to sick Faulkons or Hawks: It is also good for cricks in the neck, or the Cramp. The same sod with Oyl, easeth the pains and hardnesse of the joynts and sinews: they are likewise given against an old Cough, and with old Wine and sod Corn drunk out of the Vessel wherein they are sod, they are profitable against the Dropsie, but with the sharpest Vinegar, Oyl, and spume of Niter sod together, by rubbing and anointing, cureth all scabs in Horses, and pestilent tumors.

There is an Oyl likewise made out of Frogs, which is made in this manner; they take a pound of Frogs, and put them into a vessel or glasse, and upon them they pour a pinte of Oyl, so stopping the mouth of the glasse, they seethe it as they do the Oyl of Serpents, with this they cure the shrinking of the sinews, and the hot Gout, they provoke sleep, and heal the in∣flammations in Fevers, by anointing the Temples. The effect of this Oyl is thus described by Ser••nus;

Saepe ita per vadit vis frigoris, ac tenet artus, Ʋt vix quasito medicamine pulsa recedat. Si renam ex ••leo decoxeris, abjice carn••m, Membra fove.—

That is to say;

Often are the sinews held by force invading cold, Which scarse can be repelled back by medicines tried might, Then scethe a Frog in purest Oyl, as Ancients us have told, So bathe the members sick therein, Frogs flesh cast out of sight.

And again in another place he speaking of the cure of the Fever, writeth thus;

Sed prius est oleo partus fervescere Ranae, In triviis, ill••que artus perducere succo,

In English thus;

But first let Oyl make hot young Frogs new found In ways, therewith bring sinews weak to weal full sound.

To conclude, it were infinite and needlesse to expresse all that the Physitians have observed about the Medicines rising out of the bloud, fat, flesh, eyes, heart, liver, gall, intrails, legs, and sperm of Frogs, besides powders, and distillations; therefore I will not weary the Reader, nor give occasion to ignorant men, to be more bold upon my writing of Physick then is reason, lest that be said against me which proverbially is said of unnecessary things, Ranis vinum ministras, you give Wine to Frogs, which have neither need nor nature to drink it, for they delight more in water. And so I conclude the History of this vulgar Frog.

Of the GREEN FROG.

THis Frog is called Calamites, and Dryophytes, and Man••is, and Rana virens. In Arabia b••e••haricon, and Cucunoines, and Cucumones, Irici, Ranulae, Brexantes, of Brex••ein, to rain, and thereof com∣eth the faigned word of Aristophanes, Brekekekex Koax; but I think that as our English word Frog is derived from the German word Frosch, so the Germans Frosch from the Greek word Brex. It is called also Zamia, that is, Damnum, losse, hurt or damage, because they live in trees, and many times harm Men and Cattle underneath the trees; and therefore called Zamiae, of the Greek word Zen〈…〉〈…〉. The Italians call it Racula, Ranocchia, Lo Ronovoto, Ra〈…〉〈…〉onchia de rubetto. The French, Croissetz, and some-times Graisset, Verdier; in Savöy, Renogle. In Germany, Lou••srosch. In Poland, Zaba T••awna. Some of the Latines for difference sake call it Rana Rubeta, because it liveth in trees and bushes: and for the same cause it is called Calamites, because it liveth among reeds, and Dryopetes, because it selleth some-times out of trees.

It is the least of all other Frogs, and liveth in trees, or

[illustration]

among fruits and trees, especially in the Woods of Hasels, or Vines, for with its short legs it climbeth the highest trees: insomuch that some have thought it had wings. It is green all over the body, except the feet and the fingers, which are of dusty or reddish colour, and the tops of his nails or claws are blunt and round: In the dissection thereof there was bloud found in every part of the body, and yet but little. The heart of it is white, the liver black, mixed with the gall. It hath also a milt, and in the end of July it layeth egges.

It is a venomous Beast, for sometimes Cattle as they brouse upon trees, do swallow down one of these upon the leaves not discerning it, because it is of the same colour: but presently af∣ter they have eaten it their Bellies begin to swell, which must needs proceed from the poysoned Frog.

A second reason proving it to be venomous, is for that many Authors do affirm, that hereof is made the Psilothrum, for the drawing out of teeth by the roots, and for this cause is concluded to be venomous, because this cannot be performed without strong poyson. But for the cure of the poyson of this Frog, we shall expresse it afterward in the history of the Toad, and therefore the Reader must not expect it in this place. Always before rain they climbe up upon the trees and there cry after a hoarse manner very much, which caused the Poet Serenus to call it Rauco ga••rula qu••s••u: at other times it is mute, and hath no voyce: wherefore it is more truly called Manlis, that is, a Pro∣phet or a Diviner, then any other kinde of Frog, because other Frogs which are not altogether mute, do cry both for fear, and also for desire of carnal copulation, but this never cryeth but be∣fore rain.

Some have been of opinion, that this is a dum Frog; and therefore Vincentius Bellu••censis faith, that it is called a mute Frog from the effect: for there is an opinion, that this put into the mouth of a Dog, maketh him dum, which if it be true; it is an argument of the extreme poyson therein con∣tained, overcoming the nature of the Dog, whose chiefest senses are his taste and his smelling. And thus much shall suffice for the description of this Frog.

The medicinal vertues observed herein are these that follow. First if a man which hath a cough, do spet into the mouth of this Frog, it is thought that it doth deliver him from his cough, and be∣ing bound in a Cranes skin unto a mans thigh, procureth venereous desires: but these are but magi∣cal devices, and such as have no apparent reason in nature, wherefore I will omit them, and proceed to them that are more reasonable and natural. First, for the Oyl of Frogs, that is the best which is made out of the green Frogs, as it is observed by Silvius; and if they are held betwixt a mans hands, in the fit of hot burning Ague, do much refresh nature, and ease the pain. For Fever-hecticks they prepare them thus: they take such Frogs as have white bellies, then cut off their heads and pull out their bowels, afterwards they seethe them in water, until the flesh fall from the bones, then they min∣gle the said flesh with Barley meal, made into paste, wherewithal they cram and feed Pullen with that paste, upon which the sick man must be fed, and in default of Frogs they do the like with Eels, and other like Fishes. But there is no part of the Frog so medicinable as is the bloud, called also the mat∣ter or the juyce, and the humor of the Frog, although some of them write, that there is no bloud but in the eyes of a Frog: First therefore with this they kill hair, for upon the place where the hair was puld off, they pour this bloud, and then it never groweth more: And this as I have said already, is an argument of the venom of this Frog; and it hath been proved by experience, that a man hold∣ing one of these Frogs in his hands, his hands have begun to swell, and to break out into blisters. Of this vertue Serenus the Poet writeth thus;

Praeterea quascunque voles avertere setas, Atque in perpetuum rediviva occludere tela, Corporibus vulsis saniem perducito ranae, Sed quae parva situ est, & rauco garrula questu.

That is to say;

Besides, from whatsoever bodies hairs thou will Be clean destroyed, and never grow again On them, the mattery bloud of Frogs, all spread and spill, I mean the little Frog questing hoarse voyce amain.

The same also being made into a Verdigrease, and drunk the weight of a Crown, stoppeth the continual running of the urine. The humor which cometh out of the Frog, being alive when the skin is scraped off from her back, cleareth the eyes by an Ointment: and the flesh laid upon them, easeth their pains; the flesh and fat pulleth out teeth. The powder made of this Frog being drunk, stayeth bleeding, and also expelleth spots of bloud dryed in the body. The same being mingled with Pitch, cureth the falling off of the hair. And thus much shall suffice for the demonstration of the na∣ture of this little green Frog.

Of the Padock or Crooked back FROG.

[illustration]

IT is apparent that there be three kindes of Frogs of the earth, the first is the little green Frog: the second is this Padock, having a crook back, called in Latine, Rubeta Gibbosa; and the third is the Toad, commonly cal∣led Rubetax, Bufo. This second kinde is mute and dumb, as there be many kinde of mute Frogs, such as is that which the Germans call Feurkrott, and our late Alchy∣mists Puriphrunon, that is, a Fire∣frog, because it is of the colour of fire: This is found deep in the earth, in the midst of Rocks and stones when they are cleft asun∣der, and amongst metals, whereinto there is no hole or passage, and therefore the wit of man can∣not devise how it should enter therein, only there they finde them when they cleave those stones in sunder with their wedges and other instruments. Such as these are, are found near Tours in France, among a red sandy stone, whereof they make the Milstones, and therefore they break that stone all in pieces before they make the Milstone up, lest while the Padock is included in the middle, and the Milstone going in the mill, the heat should make the Padock swell, and so the Milstone breaking, the corn should be poysoned. Assoon as these Padocks come once into the air, out of their close places of generation and habitation, they swell and so die.

This crook-backed Padock is called by the Germans, Gartonfrosch, that is, a Frog of the Garden, and Grasfrosch, that is, a Frog of the grasse. It is not altogether mute, for in time of peril, when they are chased by men, or by Snakes, they have a crying voyce, which I have oftentimes proved by experi∣ence, and all Snakes and Serpents do very much hunt and desire to destroy these: also I have seen a

Snake hold one of them by the leg, for because it was great she could not easily devour it, and during that time it made a pitiful lamentation.

These Padocks have as it were two little horns or bunches in the middle of the back, and their colour is between green and yellow, on the sides they have red spots, and the feet are of the same colour, their belly is white, and that part of their back which is directly over their breast, is distin∣guished with a few black spots. And thus much may serve for the particular description of the Pa∣dock, not differing in any other thing that I can read of from the former Frogs, it being ve∣nomous as they are, and therefore the cure is to be expected hereafter, in the next History of the Toad.

Of the TOAD.

TO conclude the story of Frogs, we are

[illustration]

now to make description and narration of the Toad, which is the most noble kinde of Frog, most venomous and remarkable for cou∣rage and strength. This is called in Hebrew by some Coah; the Grecians call it Phrunon; the A∣rabians, Mysoxus; the Germans, Krott: the Sax∣ons, Qu••p; the Flemings, Padde; the Illyrians, Zaba; the French, Crapault; the Italians, Rospo, Botta, Boffa, Chiatto, Zatto, Buffo, Buffa, Buffone, and Ramarro; the Spaniard, Sapo escu, erco, the Latines, Rubeta, because it liveth among bushes, and Bufo, because it swelleth when it is angry.

Now I finde of these Toads two kindes, the one called Rubeta palustris, a Toad of the fens, or of the waters; the other Rubeta terrestris, a Toad of the earth; And these in Authors are sometimes confounded, one taken for another. The greatest difference that I can learn, is their seat or place of habitation, for they live both of them in the land and in the water. And of them that be in the water, some of them be smaller then the other, and are therefore called Rube∣tulae, that is, little Toads: and I think they be the same which are called by some Authors Ranae Si∣moides. Near unto Zurick, there are Toads not half so big as the vulgar Toads, at a place called Kiburg, being of a durty colour on the back, and sharp boned, the belly white and yellow, or rather betwixt both, the eyes of a gold flaming colour, the buttocks and hinder-legs hairy, and besides that place, these kindes of Toads are no where found. They have a very shrill voyce, so as they are heard a great way off, like a small bell or trumpet, and they never utter their voyce but in the Spring, and the fore-part of the Summer; for about September they hide themselves in trees, neither do they live among the waters, but on the dry land; when they cry, it is certain that the night following will bring forth no frost.

Like unto this there is a Toad in France called Bufo cornutus, a horned Toad, not because it hath horns, for that is most apparently false, but for that the voyce thereof is like to the sound of a Cornet, or rather (as I think) like to a Raven called Cornix, and by a kinde of Barbarism called Bufo cornutus. The colour of this Toad is like Saffron on the one part, and like filthy dirt on the other: besides, there are other venomous Toads living in sinks, privies, and under the roots of plants.

There is another kind also, like to the Toad of the water, but in stead of bones it hath only gristles, and it is bigger then the Toad of the fen, living in hot places. There is another also, which although it be a Toad of the water, yet hath it been eaten for meat not many years since: the mouth of it is very great, but yet without teeth, which he doth many times put out of the water like a Tortoise to take breath, and in taking of his meat, which are flies Locusts, Caterpillers, Gnats and small creep∣ing things, it imitateth the Chamaeleon, for it putteth out the tongue, and licketh in his meat by the space of three fingers, in the top whereof there is a soft place, having in it viscous humor, which causeth all things to cleave fast unto it which it toucheth, by vertue whereof it devoureth great flies. And therefore the said tongue is said to have two little bones growing at the root thereof, which by the wonderful work of Nature, doth guide, fortifie and strengthen it. And thus much may serve as a sufficient relation unto the Reader for the diversity of Toads.

Now we will proceed to the common description of both kindes together. This Toad is in all out∣ward parts like unto a Frog, the fore-feet being short, and the hinder-feet long, but the body more heavy and swelling, the colour of a blackish colour, the skin rough, viscous, and very hard, so as it is not easie to be broken with the blow of a staffe. It hath many deformed spots upon it, especially black on the sides, the belly exceeding all other parts of the body, standing out in such manner, that be∣ing smitten with a staffe, it yeeldeth a sound as it were from a vault or hollow place. The head is broad and thick, and the colour thereof on the neather part about the neck is white, that is, some-what pale, the back plain without bunches, and it is said, that there is a little bone growing in their sides, that hath a vertue to drive away Dogs from him that beareth it about him, and is therefore

called Apo••ynon. The whole aspect of this Toad is ugly and unpleasant. Some Authors affirm that it carryeth the heart in the neck, and therefore it cannot easily be killed, except the throat thereof be cut in the middle. Their liver is very vitious, and causeth the whole body to be of ill tempera∣ment: And some say they have two livers. Their milt is very small; and as as for their copulation and egges, they differ nothing from Frogs.

There be many late Writers, which do affirm that there is a precious stone in the head of a Toad, whose opinions (because they attribute much to the vertue of this stone) it is good to examine in this place, that so the Reader may be satisfied whether to hold it as a fable or as a true matter, exem∣plifying the powerful working of Almighty God in nature, for there be many that wear these stones in Rings, being verily perswaded, that they keep them from all manner of gripings and pains of the belly and the smal guts. But the Art (as they term it) is in taking of it out, for they say it must be taken out of the head alive, before the Toad be dead, with a piece of cloth of the colour of red Scarlet, wherewithal they are much delighted, so that while they stretch out themselves as it were in sport upon that cloth, they cast out the stone of their head, but instantly they sup it up again, unlesse it be taken from them through some secret hole in the said cloth, whereby it falleth into a cistern or vessel of water, into the which the Toad dareth not enter, by reason of the coldnesse of the wa∣ter. These things writeth Massarius.

Brasavolus saith, that he found such a thing in the head of a Toad, but he rather took it to be a bone then a stone, the colour whereof was brown, inclining to blacknesse. Some say it is double, namely outwardly a hollow bone, and inwardly a stone contained therein, the vertue whereof is said to break, prevent, or cure the stone in the bladder. Now how this stone should be there ingendered, there are divers opinions also, and they say that stones are ingendered in living creatures two man∣ner of ways, either through heat or extream cold, as in the Snail, Pearch, Crab, Indian Tortoyses and Toads; so that by extremity of cold this stone should be gotten.

Against this opinion the colour of the stone is objected, which is sometimes white, sometimes brown, or blackish, having a citrine or blew spot in the middle, sometimes all green, whereupon is naturally engraven the figure of a Toad, and this stone is sometimes called Borax, sometimes Crapa∣dinae, and sometimes Nisae, or Nusae, and Cholonites. Others do make two kindes of these two stones, one resembling a great deal of milk mixed with a little bloud, so that the white exceedeth the red, and yet both are apparent and visible: the other all black, wherein they say is the picture of a Toad, with her legs spread before and behinde. And it is further affirmed, that if both these stones be held in ones hand in the presence of poyson, it will burn him. The probation of this stone is by laying of it to a live Toad, and if she lift up her head against it, it is good, but if she run away from it, it is a counterfeit.

Geor. Agricola calleth the greater kinde of these stones, Brontia, and the lesser and smoother sort of stones, Ceraunie, although some contrary this opinion, saying that these stones Brantia, and Ceraunia, are bred on the earth by thundering and lightning. Whereas it is said before, that the generation of this stone in the Toad proceedeth of cold, that is utterly unpossible, for it is described to be so solid and firm, as nothing can be more hard, and therefore I cannot assent unto that opinion, for unto hard and solid things, is required abundance of heat: and again, it is unlikely, that whatsoever this Toad-stone be, that there should be any store of them in the world as are every where visible, if they were to be taken out of the Toads alive, and therefore I rather agree with Salveldensis a Spaniard, who thinketh that it is begotten by a certain viscous spume, breathed out upon the head of some Toad, by her fellows in the Spring time.

This stone is that which in ancient time was called Batrachites, and they attribute unto it a vertue besides the former, namely, for the breaking of the stone in the Bladder, and against the Falling-sick∣nesse. And they further write, that it is a discoverer of present poyson, for in the presence of poy∣son it will change the colour. And this is the substance of that which is written about this stone. Now for my part I dare not conclude either with it, or against it, for Hermolaus, Massarius, Albertus, Sylvati∣cus, and others, are directly for this stone ingendered in the brain or head of the Toad: on the other side, Cardan and Cesner confesse such a stone by name and nature, but they make doubt of the gene∣ration of it, as others have delivered; and therefore they being in sundry opinions, the hearing whereof might confound the Reader, I will refer him for his satisfaction unto a Toad, which he may easily every day kill: For although when the Toad is dead, the vertue thereof be lost, which consist∣ed in the eye, or blew spot in the middle, yet the substance remaineth, and if the stone be found there in substance, then is the question at an end, but if it be not, then must the generation of it be sought for in some other place.

Thus leaving the stone of the Toad, we must proceed to the other parts of the story, and first of all their place of habitation, which for them of the water, is neer the water-side, and for them of the earth, in bushes, hedges, rocks, and holes of the earth, never coming abroad while the Sun shineth, for they hate the Sun-shine, and their nature cannot endure it, for which cause they keep close in their holes in the day time, and in the night they come abroad. Yet sometimes in rainy weather, and in solitary places, they come abroad in the day time. All the Winter time they live under the earth, feeding upon earth, herbs, and worms, and it is said, they eat earth by measure, for they eat so much every day as they can gripe in their fore-foot, as it were sizing themselves, lest the whole earth should not serve them till the Spring. Resembling herein great rich covetous men, who ever spare to spend, for fear they shall want before they die. And for this cause in ancient time the wise Painters of

Germany, did picture a woman sitting upon a Toad, to signifie covetousnesse. They also love to eat Sage, and yet the root of Sage is to them deadly poyson; They destroy Bees, without all danger to themselves, for they will creep to the holes of their Hives, and there blow in upon the Bees, by which breath they draw them out of the Hive, and so destroy them as they come out: for this cause also at the Water-side they lie in wait to catch them. When they come to drink in the day time they see lit∣tle or nothing, but in the night time they see perfectly, and therefore they come then abroad.

About their generation there are many worthy observations in nature, sometimes they are bred out of the putrefaction and corruption of the earth; it hath also been seen that out of the ashes of a Toad burnt, not only one, but many Toads have been regenerated the year following. In the New∣world there is a Province called Dariene, the air whereof is wonderful unwholesome, because all the Countrey standeth upon rotten marishes. It is there observed, that when the slaves or servants water the pavements of the dores, from the drops of water which fall on the right hand, are instantly many Toads ingendered, as in other places such drops of water are turned into Gnats. It hath also been seen, that women conceiving with childe, have likewise conceived at the same time a Frog, or a Toad, or a Lizard, and therefore Platearius saith, that those things which are medicines to provoke the menstruous course of women, do also bring forth the Secondines. And some have called Bufonem fra∣trem Salernitanorum, & lacertam fratrem Lombardorum: that is, a Toad the Brother of the Salernit••ns, and the Lizard the Brother of the Lombards: for it hath been seen that a woman of Salernum, hath at one time brought forth a Boy and a Toad, and therefore he calleth the Toad his Brother; so like∣wise a woman of Lombardy, a Lizard, and therefove he calleth the Lizard the Lombards Brother. And for this cause, the women of those Countries, at such time as their childe beginneth to quicken in their womb, do drink the juyce of Parsley and Leeks, to kill such conceptions if any be.

There was a woman newly marryed, and when in the opinion of all she was with childe, in stead of a childe she brought forth four little living creatures like Frogs, & yet she remained in good health, but a little while after she felt some pain about the rim of her belly, which afterward was eased by applying a few remedies. Also there was another woman, which together with a Man-childe, in her Secondines did bring forth such another Beast; and after that a Merchants wife did the like in Aneoni∣tum. But what should be the reason of these so strange and unnatural conceptions, I will not take up∣on me to decide in nature, lest the Omnipotent hand of God should be wronged, and his most se∣cret and just counsel presumptuously judged and called into question. This we know, that it was prophesied in the Revelation, that Frogs and Locusts should come out of the Whore of Babylon, and the bottomlesse pit, and therefore seeing the seat of the Whore of Babylon is in Italy, it may be that God would have manifested the depravation of Christian Religion, beginning among the Italians, and there continued in the conjoyned birth of Men and Serpents: for surely, none but Devils incar∣nate, or men conceived of Serpents brood, would so stiffely stand in Romish error as the Italians do, and therefore they seem to be more addicted to the errors of their Fathers, (which they say is the Religion wherein they were born) then unto the truth of Jesus Christ, which doth unanswerably de∣tect the pride and vanity of the Romish faith.

But to leave speaking of the conception of Toads in Women, we will proceed further unto their generation in the stomachs and bellies of men, whereof there may more easily a reason be given then of the former. Now although that in the earth Toads are generated of the putrefied earth and waters, yet such a generation cannot be in the body of man, for although there be much putre∣faction in us, yet not so much to ingender bones and other organes, such as are in Toads; as for Worms they are all flesh, and may more easily be conceived of the putrefaction in our stomachs. But then you will say, how comes it to passe that in mens stomachs there are found Frogs and Toads? I answer that this evill hapneth unto such men as drink water, for by drinking of water, a Toads egge may easily slip into the stomach, and there being of a viscous nature, cleaveth fast to the rough parts of the ventricle, and it being of a contrary nature to man, can never be digested or avoided, and for that cause the venom that is in it, never goeth out of the Egge either in operation or in substance, to poyson the other parts of the body, but there remaineth until the Egge be form∣ed into a Toad, without doing further harm: and from hence it cometh that Toads are bred in the bodies of men, where they may as well live without air, as they do in the midst of trees and rocks, and yet afterwards, these Toads do kill the bodies they are bred in. For the venom is so tem∣pered, that at last it worketh when it is come to ripenesse, even as we see it is almost an usual thing, to take a poyson, whose operation shall not be perceived, till many days, weeks, or moneths after.

For the casting out of such a Toad bred in the body, this medicine is prescribed: They take a Serpent and bowel him, then they cut off the head and the tail, the residue of the body they likewise part into small pieces, which they see the in water, and take off the fat which swimmeth at the top, which the sick person drinketh, until by vomiting he avoid all the Toads in his stomach, afterwards be must use restorative and aromatical medicines. And thus much may suffice for the ordinary and ex∣traordinary generation of Toads.

These Toads do not leap as Frogs do, but because of their swelling bodies and short legs, their pace is a soft creeping pace, yet sometimes in anger they lift up themselves, endevouring to do harm, for great is their wrath, obstinacy, and desire to be revenged upon their adversaries, especi∣ally the red Toad; for look how much her colour inclineth to rednesse, so much is her wrath and venom more pestilent. If she take hold of any thing in her mouth, she will never let it go till

she die, and many times she sendeth forth poyson out of her buttocks or backer parts, wherewithal she infecteth the air, for revenge of them that do anoy her: and it is well observed that she know∣eth the weaknesse of her teeth, and therefore for her defence she first of all gathereth abundance of air into her body, wherewithal she greatly swelleth, and then by sighing uttereth that infected air as neer the person that offendeth her as she can, and thus she worketh her revenge, killing by the poy∣son of her breath. The colour of this poyson is like milk, of which I will speak afterward particu∣larly by it self.

A Toad is of a most cold temperament, and bad constitution of nature, and it useth one certain herb wherewithal it preserveth the sight, and also resisteth the poyson of Spyders, whereof I have heard this credible History related, from the mouth of a true honourable man, and one of the most charitable Peers of England, namely, the good Earl of Bedford, and I was requested to set it down for truth, for it may be justified by many now alive that saw the same.

It fortuned as the said Earl travailed in Bedfordshire, neer unto a Market-town called Owbourn, some * 1.238 of his company espyed a Toad fighting with a Spyder, under a hedge in a bottom, by the high-way∣side, whereat they stood still, until the Earl their Lord and Master came also to behold the same; and there he saw how the Spyder still kept her standing, and the Toad divers times went back from the Spyder, and did eat a piece of an herb, which to his judgement was like a Plantain. At the last, the Earl having seen the Toad do it often, and still return to the combate against the Spyder, he com∣manded one of his men to go, and with his dagger to cut off that herb, which he performed and brought it away. Presently after the Toad returned to seek it, and not finding it according to her expectation, swelled and broke in pieces: for having received poyson from the Spyder in the com∣bate, nature taught her the vertue of that herb, to expell and drive it out, but wanting the herb, the poyson did instantly work and destroy her. And this (as I am informed) was oftentimes related by the Earl of Bedford himself upon sundry occasions, and therefore I am the bolder to insert it into 〈◊〉〈◊〉 story.

I do the more easily believe it, because of another like story related by Erasmus in his Book of * 1.239 Friendship, hapning likewise in England, in manner as followeth. There was a Monk who had in his chamber divers bundles of green rushes, wherewithal he used to strow his chamber at his pleasure, it hapned on a day after dinner, that he fell asleep upon one of those bundles of rushes, with his face upward, and while he there slept, a great Toad came and sate upon his lips, bestriding him in such manner as his whole mouth was covered. Now when his fellows saw it, they were at their wits end, for to pull away the Toad was an unavoidable death, but to suffer her to stand still upon his mouth, was a thing more cruel then death: and therefore one of them espying a Spiders web in the window, wherein was a great Spyder, he did advise that the Monk should be carryed to that window, and laid with his face upward right underneath the Spyders web, which was presently accomplished. And assoon as the Spyder saw her adversary the Toad, she presently wove her thred, and descended down upon the Toad, at the first meeting whereof the Spyder wounded the Toad, so that it swelled, and at the second meeting it swelled more, but at the third time the Spyder kild the Toad, and so be∣came grateful to her Host which did nourish her in his Chamber; for at the third time the Toad leaped off from the mans mouth, and swelled to death; but the man was preserved whole and alive. And thus much may suffice for the antipathy of nature betwixt the Toad and the Spyder.

The Mole is also an enemy to the Toad, for as Albertus writeth, he himself saw a Toad crying above the earth very bitterly, for a Mole did hold her fast by the leg within the earth, labouring to pull her in again, while the other strove to get out of her teeth, and so on the other side, the Toads do eat the Moles when they be dead. They are also at variance with the Lizard, and all kindes of Serpents, and whensoever it receiveth any wound by them, it cureth it self by eating of Plantain. The Cat doth also kill Serpents and Toads, but eateth them not, and unlesse she presently drink she dyeth for it. The Buzard and the Hawk are destroyers of Toads, but the Stork never destroyeth a Toad to eat it, except in extremity of famine, whereby is gathered the venomous nature of the Toad.

Now to conclude, the premisses considered which have been said of the Toad, the uses that are to follow are not many, except those which are already related in the Frog. When the Spaniards were in Bragua an Island of the New-found-world, they were brought to such extremity of famine, that a sick man amongst them was forced to eat two Toads, which he bought for two pieces of gold-lace, worth in Spanish money six Duckats. I do marvel why in ancient time the Kings of France gave in their Arms the three Toads in a yellow field, the which were afterwards changed by Glodoveus into three Flower-de-luces in a field Azure, as Arms sent unto him from Heaven.

When the Trojans dwelt neer Moeotis, after the destruction of Troy, they were very much annoyed by the Gothes, wherefore Marcomirus their King, determined to leave that Countrey, and to seek some where else a more quiet habitation. Being thus minded, he was admonished by an Oracle that he should go and dwell in that Countrey where the River Rhene falleth into the Sea, and he was also stirred up to take upon him that journey, by a certain Magitian-woman, called Alrunna, for this cun∣ning Woman caused in the night time a deformed apparition to come unto him having three heads, one of an Eagle, another of a Toad, and the third of a Lyon, and the Eagles head did speak unto him in this manner, Genus tuum ô Marcomire opprimet me, & conculeabit. Leonem, & interficiet bufonem; that is to say, Thy stock or posterity, O Marcomirus, shall oppresse me, it shall tread the Lyon under foot, and kill the Toad. By which words he gathered, that his posterity should rule over the Romans,

signified by the Eagle; and over the Germans, signified by the Lyon; and over the French, signified by the Toad, because the Toad, as we have said, was the ancient Arms of France.

It is an opinion held by some Writers, that the Weasels of the water do ingender in copulation with the Toads of the water, for in their mouths, and feet of their belly, they do resemble them: Whereupon these verses were made;

Bufones gigno putrida tellure sepulta, Humores pluvi•• forte quod ambo sumu••, Humet is & friget, mea sic vis humet & alget, Cum perit in terra qui prius ignis erat.

Which may be Englished thus;

Buryed in rotten earth, forth Toads I bring, Perhaps because we both are made of rain, That's moist and cold, moist I and ever freezing, When in the earth, that force from fire came.

And thus we will descend to discourse of the Toads poyson, and of the special remedies appointed for the same. First therefore, all manner of Toads, both of the earth and of the water are venomous, although it be held that the Toads of the earth are more poysonful then the Toads of the water, ex∣cept those Toads of the water which do receive infection or poyson from the water, for some waters are venomous. But the Toads of the land, which do descend into the marishes, and so live in both elements, are most venomous, and the hotter the Countrey is, the more full are they of poyson.

The Women-witches of ancient time which killed by poysoning, did much use Toads in their con∣fections, which caused the Poet in his verses to write as followeth.

Occurrit Matrona potens, quae molle Calenum Porrectura viro, miscet sitiente rubetam.

Which may be Englished thus;

There came a rich Matron, who mixed Calen Wine, With poyson of Toads to kill her Spouse, O deadly crime.

And again in another place,

—Funus promittere patris Nec volo nec possum ranarum, in viscera nunquam Inspexi.—

In English thus;

I can nor will of Fathers death a promise make, For of Toads poyson I never yet a view did take.

When an Asp hath eaten a Toad, their biting is incurable, and the Bears of Pamphilia and Cylicia, being killed by men after that they have eaten Salamanders or Toads, do poyson their eaters. We have said already, that a Toad hath two livers, and although both of them are corrupted, yet the one of them is said to be full of poyson, and the other to resist poyson. The biting of a Toad, although it be seldom, yet it is venomous, and causeth the body to swell and to break, either by Impostumati∣on, or otherwise, against which is to be applyed common Antidotes, as womens Milk, Triacle, roots of Sea-holm, and such other things. The spittle also of Toads is venomous, for if it fall upon a man, it causeth all his hair to fall off from his head; against this evil Paracelsus prescribeth a plaister of earth, mixed with the spittle of a man.

The common people do call that humor which cometh out of the buttocks of a Toad when she swelleth, the urine of a Toad, and a man moistned with the same, be-pissed with a Toad; but the best remedy for this evil, is the milk of a woman, for as it resembleth the poyson in colour, so doth it re∣sist it in nature. The bodies of Toads dryed, and so drunk in Wine after they be beaten to powder, are a most strong poyson, against which and all other such poyson of Toads, it is good to take Plan∣tain and black Hellebore, Sea-crabs dryed to powder and drunk, the stalks of Dogs-tongue, the powder of the right horn of a Hart, the milt, spleen, and heart of a Toad. Also certain fishes called Shel-crabs, the bloud of the Sea-tortoise mixed with Wine, Cummin, and the rennet of a Hare. Al∣so the bloud of a Tortoise of the land mixed with Barley-meal, and the quintessence of Triacle and Oyl of Scorpions, all these things are very precious against the poyson of Serpents and Toads.

We have promised in the story of the Frog, to expresse in this place such remedies, as the learned Physitians have observed for the cure of the poyson of Frogs. First therefore the poyson of the Frog causeth swelling in the body, depelleth the colour, bringeth difficulty of breathing, maketh the breath strong, and an involuntary profusion of seed, with a general dulnesse and restinesse of body: for remedy whereof, let the party be inforced to vomit by drinking sweet Wine, and two drams of the powder of the root of Reeds or Cypresse. Also he must be inforced to walking and running, besides daily washing. But if a Fever follow the poyson or burning in the extremities, let the vomit be of water and Oyl, or Wine and Pitch; or let him drink the bloud of a Sea-tor∣toise, mixed with Cummine, and the rennet of a Hare, or else sweat in a Furnace or Hot-house a long time: besides many other such like remedies, which every Physitian, both by experience and reading, is able to minister in cases of necessity, and therefore I will spare my further pains from

expressing them in this place, and passe on to the medicinal vertues of the Toad, and so conclude this history.

We have shewed already that the Toad is a cold creature, and therefore the same sod in water, and the body anointed therewith, causeth hair to fall off from the members so anointed. There is a medicine much commended against the Gowt, which is this: Take six pound of the roots of wilde Cucumber, six pound of sweet Oyl, of the marrow of Harts, Turpentine, and Wax, of either six ounces, and six Toads alive, the which Toads must be bored through the foot, and hanged by a thred in the Oyl until they grow yellow, then take them out of the Oyl by the threds, and put into the said Oyl the sliced root of a Cucumber, and there let it seethe until al the vertue be left in the Oyl. After∣wards melt the Wax and Turpentine, and then put them all together in a glasse, so use them morning and evening against the Gowt, Sciatica, and pains of the sinews, and it hath been seen that they which have lyen long sick, have been cured thereof, and grown perfectly well and able to walk. Some have added unto this medicine Oyl of Saffron, Opobalsamum, bloud of Tortoises, Oyl of Sabine, Swines grease, Quicksilver, and Oyl of Bays.

For the scabs of Horses, they take a Toad killed in wine and water, and so sod in a brazen vessel, and afterwards anoint the Horse with the liquor thereof. It is also said that Toads dryed in smoak, or any piece of them carryed about one in a linnen cloth, do stay the bleeding at the nose. And this Frederick the Duke of Saxony, was wont to practise in this manner; he had ever a Toad pierced through with a piece of wood, which Toad was dryed in the smoak or shadow, this he rowled in a linnen cloth; and when he came to a man bleeding at the nose, he caused him to hold it fast in his hand until it waxed hot, and then would the bloud be stayed. Whereof the Physitians could never give any reason, except horror and fear constrained the bloud to run into his proper place, through fear of a Beast so contrary to humane nature. The powder also of a Toad is said to have the same ver∣tue, according to this verse;

Buffo ustus sistit naturae dote cruorem.

In English thus;

A Toad that is burned to ashes and dust, Stays bleeding by gift of Nature just.

The skin of a Toad, and shell of a Tortoyse, either burned or dryed to powder, cureth the Fistu∣laes: Some add hereunto the root of Laurel and Hen-dung, Salt, and Oyl of Mallows. The eyes of the Toad are received in Ointment against the Worms of the belly. And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of the history of the Toad and Frogs.

Of the GREEN SERPENTS.

IN Valois there are certain Green-serpents, which of their color are called Grunling, and I take them to be the same which Hesychius called Sauritae, and Pliny by a kinde of excellency, Snakes, of whom we shall speak afterwards, for I have no more to say of them at this present, but that they are very venomous. And it may be that of these came the common proverb, Latet Anguis sub herba, under the green herb lyeth the Green-snake, for it is a friendly admonition unto us to beware of a falshood covered with a truth like unto it.

Of the HAEMORRHE.

[illustration]

THis Serpent hath such a name given unto it, as the effect of his biting worketh in the bodies of men, for it is called in Latine, Haemorrbous, to signifie unto us the male, and Haemorrbois, to signifie the female, both of them being derived from the Greek word Aima, which signifieth bloud, and Reo, which signifieth to flow, because whomsoever it biteth, it maketh in a continual bleeding sweat, with extremity of pain until it die. It is also called Affodius, and Afudius, Sabrine, and Halsordius, or Alsordius, which are but corrupted barbarous names from the true and first word Hae∣m••rrbous.

It is doubtful whether this be to be ascribed to the Asps or to the Vipers, for Isidorus saith it is * 1.240 a kinde Asp, and Aelianus, a kinde of Viper. They are of a sandy colour, and in length not past one foot, or three handfuls, whose tail is very sharp or small, their eyes are of a flery-flaming colour,

their head small, but hath upon it the appearance of horns. When they goe, they go straight and slowly, as it were halting and wearily, whose pace is thus described by Nicander;

—Et instar Ipsius obliquae sua parvula terga Cerastae Claudicat: ex medio videas appellere dorso Paroum navigium, terit imam lubrica terram Alvus, & haud alio tacitè trahit ilia 〈…〉〈…〉tu, Ac per Arundineum si transeat illa grabatum

In English thus;

And like the Horned-serpent, so trails this elf on land, As though on back a little boat it drave, His sliding belly makes paths be seen in sand, As when by bed of Reeds she goes her life to save.

The scales of this Serpent are rough and sharp, for which cause they make a noyse when they goe on the earth; the female resteth her self upon her lower part neer her tayl, creeping altogether upon her belly, and never holdeth up her head, but the male when he goeth holdeth up his head: their bodies are all set over with black spots, and themselves are thus paraphrstically described by Nicander;

Ʋnum longa pedem, totoque gracillima tractu, Ignea quandoque est, quandoque est candida forma, Constrictumque satis collum, et tenuissima cauda. Bina super gelidos oculos frons cornua profert, Splendentem quadam radiorum albentia luce, Silvestres ut apes, populatricesque Locustae: Insuper horribile ac asprum caput hortet.

Which may be Englished in this manner following;

On foot in length, and slender all along, Sometime of fiery hue, sometime milk-white it is, The neck bound in, and tayl most thin and strong, Whose fore-head hath two horns above cold eyes: Which in their light resemble shining beams, Like Bees full wilde, or Locusts spoylers bred, But yet to look upon all horrible in seams, For why? the cruel Bore they shew in head.

They keep in rocks, and stony places of the houses and earth, making their dens winding and hanging, according to these Verses;

Rimosas colit illa Petras, sibique aspera tecta, Et modice pendens facit, inflexumque cubile.

In English thus;

The chinks of Rocks and passages in stone They dwell, wherein their lodgings bare, A little hanging made for every one, And bending too their sleepy harbours are.

It is said that Canobus the Governour of Menelaus, chanced to fall upon this Serpent, in revenge whereof Helen his charge, the wife of Menelaus broke his back-bone, and that ever since that time they creep lamely, and as it were without loyns; which fable is excellently thus described by Ni∣cander;

Quondam animosa Helene cygni Jovis inclyta proles Eversa rediens Troia (nisi vana v••tustas) Huic indignata est generi, Pharias ut ad oras Venit, & adversi declinans flamina venti, Fluctivagam statuit juxta Nili ostia classem. Namque ubi nauclerus se fessum forte Canobus Sterneret, et bibulis fusus dormiret arenis: Laesa venenosos H••morrhois impulit ictus, Illatamque tulit letali dente quietem: Protinus o••iperae cernens id filla Ledae, Oppressae medium serpenti fervida dorsum Infregit, tritaeque excussit vinculae spinae, Quae fragili illius sic dempta è corpore fugit, Et graciles Haemorrhoiae, obliquique Cerastae Ex hoc clauda trahunt jam foli tempore membra.

Which may be Englished thus;

Once noble Helen, Joves childe by Swan-like shape, Returning back from Troy, destroyed by Grecian war, (If that our ancients do not with fables us beclap) This race was envied by Pharias anger farre, When to his shores for safety they did come, Declining rage of blustring windy seas, Water-biding-Navy at Nilus mouth gan run, Where Canobus all tyred, sainted for some ease: For there this Pilot, or Master of the Fleet, Did hast from boat to sleep in ••rery sand, Where he did feel the teeth of Hemorrhe deep, Wounding his body with poyson, deaths own hand. But when egge-breeding Ledaes wench espyed This harm, she prest the Serpents back with stroke, Whereby the bands thereof were all 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ Which in just wrath for just revenge she broke. So ever since out of this Serpents fr〈…〉〈…〉 And body they are taken, which is the cause That Cerasts and lean Haemorrhs are ever 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Drawing their parts on earth by natures lawes.

They which are stung with these Haemorrhs, do suffer very intolerable torments, for out of the wound continually floweth bloud, and the excrements also that cometh out of the belly are bloudy, or sometimes little rouls of bloud in stead of excrements. The colour of the place bitten is black,

or of a dead bloudy colour, out of which nothing floweth at the beginning but a certain watery humour, then followeth pain in the stomack, and difficulty of breathing. Lastly, the powers of the body are broken, and opened, so that out of the mouth, gums, ears, eyes, fingers ends, nayls of the feet, and privy parts, continually issueth bloud, untill a cramp also come, and then followeth death, as we read in Lucan of one Tellus a young noble man, slain by this Serpent, described as fol∣loweth;

Impressit dentes Haemorrhois aspera Tullo Magnanimo juveni, miratorique Catonis: Ʋ••que solet pariter totis se effundere signis Coricii pressura croci: sic omnia membra Emisere simul rutilum pro sanguine vir••s. Sanguis erant lachrymae: qu••cunque foramina novit Humor, ab iis largus manat cruor, ora redundant, Et patulae nares, sudor rubet, omnia plenis, Membra fluunt venis: totum est pro vulnere corp••s.

In English thus;

The Haemorrhe fierce, in noble Tullus fastened teeth That valiant youth, great Catoes scholar deer: And as when Saffron by Corycians skeeth Is prest, and in his colour on them all appear: So all his parts sent forth a poyson red In stead of bloud: Nay all in bloud went round. Bloud was his tears, all passages of it were sped, For out of mouth and ears did bloud abound. Bloud was his sweat, each part his vein out-bleeds, And all the body bloud that one wound feeds.

The cure of this Serpent, in the opinion of the Ancients, was thought impossible, as writeth Di∣oscrides▪ and thereof they complain very much, using only common remedies, as scarification, ••stions, sharp meats, and such things as are already remembred in the cure of the Dipsas. But be∣sides these they use Vine-leaves, first bruised and then sod with Honey: they take also the head of this Serpent and burn it to powder, and so drink it, or else Garlick with Oyl of Flower-de-luce, they give them also to eat Reisins of the Sun. And besides, they resist the eruption of the bloud, with plaisters laid to the place bitten, made of Vine-leaves and Honey, or the leaves of Purslane and Barley-meal. But before their urine turn bloudy, let them eat much Garlick stamped, and mixed with Oyl to cause them to vomit, and drink wine delayed with water, then let the wound be washed with cold water, and the bladder continually fomented with hot Spunges. Some do make the cure of it like the cure of the Viper, and they prescribe them to eat hard Egges with Salt fish, and besides, the seed of Radish, the juice of Poppy, with the roots of Lilly, also Daffadil, and Rue, Trefolie, Cassia, Opoponax, and Cinnamon in potion: and to conclude, the flowers and buds of the bush are very profitable against the biting of the Haemorrhe, and so I end the history of this Serpent.

Of the Horned SERPENT.

[illustration]

THis Serpent because of his Horns (although it be a kinde of Viper) is called in Greek Re∣rastes, and from thence cometh the Latine word Cerastes, and the Arabian, Cerust, and Ce∣rustes. It is called also in Latine, Ceristalis, Cristalis, Sirtalis, and Tristalis. All which are cor∣rupted words, derived from Cerastes, or else from one another, and therefore I think it not fit to stand upon them. The Hebrewes call it Schephiphon, the Italians, Cerastes, the Germans, En ge••urnte schl••••g; the French, Ʋn Ceraste, un serpent Cornu, that is, a horned Serpent; and therefore I have so called it in English, imitating herein both the French and Germans.

I will not stand about the difference of Authors, whether this Serpent be to be referred to the Asps or to the Vipers, for it is not a point materiall, and therefore I will proceed to the description of his nature, that by his whole history, the Reader may choose whether he will account him a subordinate kinde unto others, or else a principall of himself. It is an African Serpent, bred in the Lybian sandy seas, places not inhabited by men, for the huge Mountains of sands are so often moved by the windes, that it, is not only impossible for men to dwell there, but also very dange∣rous and perilous to travel through them, for that many times whole troops of men and cat∣tell, are in an instant overwhelmed and buryed in those sands. And this is a wonderfull wor••

of God, that those places which are least habitable for man, are most of all annoyed with the most dangerous biting Serpents.

It is also said, that once these Horned Serpents departed out of Lybia into Egypt, where they de∣populated all the Countrey. Their habitation is neer the high-wayes, in the sands, and under Cart-wheels: and when they goe, they make both a sound with their motion, and also a surrow in the earth, according to the saying of Nicander;

Ex iis alter echis velocibus obvia spinis, Recto terga tibi prolixus tram te ducit, Sed medio diffusius hic cerastes se corpore volvit: Curvum errans per iter, resonantibus aspera squamis. Qualiter aequoreo longissima gurgite navis, Quam violentus agit nunc huc, nunc Africus illuc, Pellitur, et laterum gemebunda fragore suorum Extra sulcandas sinuose fluctuat undas.

Which may be Englished thus;

Of these the Viper with swift bones thee meets, Trayling her back in path direct and strait, The Cerast more diffused in way thee greets With crooked turning, on scales make sounds full great: Like as a ship tossed by the Western winde, Sounds afarre off, moved now here, now there, So that by noyse of shrilling sides we finde His furrowes turned in Seas and water sphere.

The quantity of this horned Serpent is not great, it exceedeth not two cubits in length; the co∣lour of the body is branded like sand, yet mingled with another pale white colour, as is to be seen in a Hares skin. Upon the head there are two horns, and sometimes four, for which occasion it hath received the name Cerastes, and with these horns they deceive Birds; for when they are hungry, they cover their bodies in sand, and only leave their horns uncovered to move above the earth, which when the Birds see, taking them to be Worms, they light upon them, and so are devoured by the Serpent. The teeth of this Serpent are like the teeth of a Viper, and they stand equall, and not crooked: In stead of a back-bone they have a gristle throughout their body, which maketh them more flexible and apt to bend every way: for indeed they are more flexible then any other Serpent. They have certain red strakes crosse their back, like a Crocodile of the earth, and the skins of such as are bred in Egypt are very soft, stretching like a Cheverell-glove, both in length and breadth, as it did appear by a certain skin taken off from one being dead; for being stuffed with Hay, it shewed much greater then it was being alive, but in other Countreys the skins are not so.

I have heard this History of three of these Serpents brought out of Turkey, and given to a No∣ble man of Venice alive, who preserved them alive in a great Glasse (made of purpose) upon sand, in that Glasse nee••the fire: The description as it here followeth, was taken by John Faltoner, an English Travailer, saying. They were three in number, whereof one was thrice so big as the other two, and that was a female, and she was said to be their Mother; she had laid at that time in the sands four or five Egges, about the bignesse of Pigeons Egges. She was in length three foot, but in breadth or quantity almost so big as a mans Arm: her head was flat, and broad as two fingers, the apple of the eye black, all the other part being white.

Out of her eye-lids grew two horns, but they were short ones, and those were truly Horns, and not flesh. The neck compared with the body was very long and small, all the upper part of the skin was covered with scales, of ash-colour, and yet mixed with black. The tail is at it were brown when it was stretched out. And this was the description of the old one: the other two being like to her in all things, except in their horns, for being small, they were not yet grown. Generally, all these horned Serpents have hard dry scales upon their belly, wherewithall they make a noyse when they go themselves, and it is thus described by Nicander;

Nunc potes actutum, insidiatoremque Cerasten Noscere, vipereum veluti genus, huic quia dispar Non is corpus habet, sed qnatuor aut duo profert Cornua, cum mutila videatur Vipera fronte. Squalidus albenti color est.

In English thus;

You well may know the treacher Cerasts noyse, A Viper-kinde, whose bodies much agree, Yet these four h••rns and brandy colour, poyse, Where Viper none, but forehead plain we see.

There is no Serpent except the Viper that can so long indure thirst as this horned Serpent, for they seldome or never drink; and therefore I think they are of a Vipers kinde: for besides this also it is observed, that their young ones do come in and out of their bellies as Vipers doe: They live in hatred with all kinde of Serpents, and especially with Spiders. The Hawes of Aegypt also do destroy horned Serpents and Scorpions: but about Thebes in Aegypt there are certain sacred Snakes (as they are termed) which have horns on their head, and these are harmlesse unto men and beasts, otherwise all these Serpents are virulent and violent against all creatures, especially men: yet there be certain men in Lybia called Psilli, which are in a league, or rather in a naturall concord with horned Serpents. For if they be bitten by them at any time, they receive no hurt at all: and besides, if they be brought unto any man that is bitten with one of these Serpents, before the poyson be spread all over his body, they help and cure him, for if they finde him but lightly hurt, they only spit upon the wound, and so mitigate the pain, but if they finde him more deeply hurt,

then they take much water within their teeth, and first wash their own mouth with it, then spit out the water into a pot, and make the sick man to drink it up. Lastly, if the poyson be yet strong, they lay their naked bodies upon the naked poysoned body, and so break the force of the poyson. And this is thus described by the Poet, saying,

Audivi Lybicos Psyllos, quos aspera Sir••is Serpentumque ferax patria alit populos, Non ictu inflictum diro, morsuve venenum Laedere: quin laesis ferre & opem reliquis, Non vi radicum proprio, sed corpore juncto.

That is to say,

The Lybian Psylli, which Serpent-breeding Syrtes dwell As I have heard, do cure poyson, stings, and bites, Nor hurt themselves, but it in other quell: By no roots force, but joyning bodies quites.

When a horned Serpent hath bitten a man or beast, first about the wound there groweth hard∣nesse, and then pustules. Lastly, black, earthy and pale matter: the genital member standeth out straight and never falleth, he falleth mad, this eyes grow dim, and his nerves immanuable, and upon the head of the wound groweth a scab like the head of a Nail, and continually pricking, like the pricking of Needles: And because this Serpent is immoderately dry, therefore the poyson is most pernicious; for if it be not holpen within nine dayes, the patient cannot escape death. The cure must be first by cutting away the flesh unto the bone, where the wound is, or else the whole mem∣ber if it can be, then lay upon the wound Goats dung sod with Vinegar or Garlike, and Vinegar or Barley-meal, or the juice of Cedar, Rue, or Nep, with Salt and Honey, or Pitch and Barley-meal, and such-like things outwardly: inwardly Daffadil and Rue in drink, Radish-seed, Indian Cummin, with wine and Castoreum, and also Calamint, and every thing that procureth vomit. And thus much for the description of the Horned Serpent.

Of the HYENA.

THere be some that make question whether there be any such Serpent as this or no, for it is not very like that there is any such, and that this Hyaena is the self same which is described to be a Four-footed Beast, for that which is said of that, is likewise attributed to this: namely, that it changeth sex, being one yeer a male, another yeer a female, and that the couples which seem to be marryed together, do by continuall entercourse, bring forth their young ones, so that the male this yeer is the female next yeer, and the female this yeer is the male next yeer. And this is all that is said of this Serpent.

Of the HYDRA, supposed to be killed by Hercules.

THe Poets do fain, that neer to the Fountain Amymona, there grew a Plantain, under which was bred a Hydra which had seven heads: whereof one of these heads was said to be im∣mortall: with this Hydra Hercules did fight; for there was in that immortall head such a poyson as was uncurable; wherewithall Hercules moystened the head of his Darts after he had killed it: and they say, that while Hercules struck off one of these heads, there ever arose two or three more in the room thereof, untill the number of fifty, or as some say, fourscore and ten heads were strucken off: and because this was done in the fenne of L••rns, therefore there grew a Pro∣verb of Lerna malorum, to signifie a multitude of unresistable evils.

And some ignorant men of late dayes at Venice, did picture this Hydra with wonderfull Art, and set it forth to the people to be seen; as though it had been a true carkase, with this inscription. In the year of Christs incarnation, 550. about the moneth of January, this monstrous Serpent was brought out of Turkey to Venice, and afterwards given to the French King; it was esteemed to be worth 6000. D••cats. These Monsters signifie the mutation or change of worldly affairs, but (I trust said the Author of the inscription, who seemed to be a German) the whole Christian World is so af∣flicted that there is no more evil that can happen to the▪ Christian World, except destruction; and therefore I hope that these Monsters do not foreshew any evil to the Christians. Therefore seeing the Turkish Empire is grown to that height, in which estate all other former Kingdomes fell, I may divine and prophesie that the danger threatned hereby, belongeth to the Turks, and not unto us, in whose Government this Monster was found to be bred: and the hinder part of his head seemeth to resemble a Turks Cap. Thus far this inscribing Diviner. But this fellow ought first of all to have enquired about the truth of this Picture, whether it were sincere or counterfeit, before he had given his judgement upon it: For that there should be such a Serpent with seven heads, I think it unpossible, and no more to be beleeved and credited, then that Castor and P••llux were conceived in an Egge, or that Pluto is the GOD of Hell, or that armed men were created out of Dragons teeth, or that Vulcan made Achilles his Armour, or that Venus was wounded by Diomedes; or that Ʋlysses was carryed in Bottles, so true I think is the shape of this Monster: for

the head, ears, tongue, nose, and face of this Monster, do altogether degenerate from all kindes of Serpents, which is not usuall in Monsters, but the fore-parts do at most times resemble the kinde to which it belongeth; and therefore if it had not been an unskilfull Painters device, he might have framed it in a better fashion, and more credible to the world. But let it be as it is, how doth he know that this evil doth more belong to the Turks then to the Christians? For shall we be so blinde and flatter our selves so far, as not to acknowledge our sins, but to lay all the tokens of judgement upon our adversaries? But if there appeared in us any repentance or amendment of those faults, for which God hath suffered in his justice, that impious Tyrant and Tyrannicall Government to prevail a∣gainst Christians, then we might think that GOD would look mercifully upon us, and avert his wrath from us upon our enemies. But with sorrow and grief be it spoken, all the Kings and peo∣ple of Christendome, do directly go forward without stumbling in those vile courses, and odious cry∣ing sins, for which God hath set up the Tu••ks against former ages, and therefore we have no cause to hope that ever this rod shall be cast into the fire, untill the chastisement of Gods children have procured their amendment, and if no amendment, then all the powers of heaven (the blessed Trim∣ty excepted) cannot keep Christendome from ruine and destruction, which God of his infinite mercy turn away from us.

[illustration]

To turn again to the story of the Hydra, I have also heard, that in Ve••ice in the Dukes treasury, a∣mong the rare Monuments of that City, there is preserved a Serpent with seven heads, which if it be true, it is the more probable that there is a Hydra, and then the Poets were not altogether deceived, that say, Hercules killed such a one. This Hydra which Hercules slew, they say was ingendred betwixt Echidna and Typhaon, and nourished by Juno in Le••na, in hatred of Hercules: and they say further, that when he came to kill it, there came a Crab or Cancer to help the Hydra against Hercules, who instantly called upon Iolaus for help, and so Iolaus slew the Crab, and He••cules the Hydra.

Phaaephatus maketh the story of He••cules by killing the Hydra, to be a meer allegory, saying, that the Hydra was a Castle kept by fifty men, the King whereof was called Lernus, who was assisted by a Noble man (called Cancer) against the assaults of Hercules, and that Hercules by the help of him, King of the Thebanes, overcame that King and Castle. Other say that Lerna and Hydra signifie the two kindes of Envy, distinguished by Invidia, and Invidentia, in himself, which arise out of the mon∣strous filthy fenne of humane corruption; like a monstrous hideous Dragon, with whom he strore, and as he struck off one head or tentation, so two or three other continually arose in the room thereof. And thus much for the Hydra, whether it be true or fabulous.

Of innocent SERPENTS.

I Doe read of two kindes of innocent Serpents, one called Lybies, because they are only in Africk, and never do hurt unto men, and therefore Nicander was deceived, which maketh this kinde of Ser∣pent to be the same with the Am••dyte, whose sting or teeth are very mortall and deadly. There be also other kindes of harmlesse Serpents, as that called Molurus, Mustaca, and Mylacris, which is said to go upon the tail, and it hath no notable property, except that one thing which giveth it the name, for Molurus is derived from Molis Our••n, that is hardly making water.

There be also domesticall innocent Serpents, Myagrus, Orophia, and Spathiurus, which whether they be one kinde or many, I will not stand upon, for they are all termed by the Germans, Hussunck, and Husschlang, that is, a House-snake. They live by hunting of Mice, and Weasels, and upon their heads they have two little ears, like to the ears of a Mouse, and because they be as black as coals, the Italians call them Serpe nero, and Carbon, and Garabonazzo, and the French-men, Anguille de Hay, that is, a Snake of hedges. There be some that nourish them in Glasses with branne, and when they are at liberty they live in Dung-hills also, wherein they breed sometimes, they have been seen to suck a Cow, for then they twist their tails about the Cowes legs. Matthiolus writeth, that the flesh of this Snake, when the head, tail, intrails, fat, and gall are cut off and cast away, to be a speciall remedy a∣against the French-pox.

There are are also other kindes of Innocent Serpents, as that called Parea, and in Italy Baron, and Pagerina, which are brought out of the East, where these are bred. There be no other harmfull Serpents in that Countrey. They are of a yellow colour like Gold, and about four spans long: upon either side they have two lines or strakes, which begin about a hand breadth from their neck, and end at their tail. They are without poyson as may appear by the report of Gesner, for he did see a man hold the head alive in his hand. And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of Innocent Serpents.

Of the LIZARD.

[illustration]

ALthough there be many kinds of Lizards, yet in this place I will intreat first of the vulgar Li∣zard, called in the Hebrew Letaah, Lanigerm••sha, Lyserda, Carbo, Pelipah, and Eglose; the Chaldeans, Haltetha, and Humeta; the Arabians, Ataia, Albathaie, or Albadaie, Hardun, Atab, Samabras, Saam∣bras; the Grecians in ancient time Sauros, and Saura, and vulgarly at this day Kolisaura; the Italians in some places, Liguro, ••••eguro, Lucerta, and Lucertula; about Trent, Racani, and Ramarri, and yet Re∣marro is also used for a Toad; the Spaniards, Lagarto, Lacerta, Lagartisa, and Lagardixa; the French, Lisarde; the Germans, Adax, and when they distinguish the male from the female, they expresse the male, Ein Egochs, and the female, Egles; in Hessia, Lydetstch; in Flanders and Illyria, Gessierka, and Gesstier; the Latines, Lacertus, and Lacerta, because it hath arms, and shoulders like a man, and for this cause also the Salamander, the Stellion, the Crocodile, and Scorpions are also called sometimes Lacerti, Lizards. And thus much shall suffice for the name.

The vulgar Lizard is described on this sort; the skin is hard and full of scales, according to this saying of Virgil;

Absint & picti squalentia terga Lacerti.

In English thus;

—Those put away And painted Lizards▪ with their▪ scalie backs.

The colour of it is pale, and distinguished with certain rusty spots, as Pliny writeth, with long strakes or lines to the tail; but generally they are of many colours, but the green with the white belly living in bushes, bedges, and is the most beautifull, and most respected; and of this we shall peculiarly intreat hereafter. There have been some Lizards, taken in the beginning of September,

whose colour was like Brasse, yet dark and dusky, and their belly partly white, and partly of an earthy colour, but upon either side they had certain little pricks or spots like printed Scarres: their length was not past four fingers, their eyes looked backward and the holes and passages of their ears were round, the fingers of their feet were very small, being five in number, both before and behind, with small nails, and behind that was the longest which standeth in the place of a mans fore-finger, and one of them standeth different from the other, as the thumb doth upon a mans hand, but on the forefeet all of them stand equall, not one behinde or before another.

These little Lizards do differ from the Stellions in this; that they have bloud in their veins, and they are covered with a hard skin, winking with the upper eye-lid. All manner of Lizards have a cloven tongue, and the top thereof is somewhat hairy, or at the least wise divided like the fashion and figure of hair. Their teeth are also as small as hair, being black, and very sharp, and it seemeth also they are very weak, because when they bite, they leave them in the wound. Their lungs are small and dry, yet apt to swell and receive wind•• by inflamation: their belly is uniform and simple, their intrails long, their Milt round round and small, and their stones cleave inwardly to their loyns: their tail is like the tail of a Serpent; and it is the opinion of Aristotle, that the same being cut off, groweth again. The reason whereof is given by Cardan, because imperfect creatures are full of moyst∣nesse; and therefore the parts cut off do easily grow again. And Pliny reporteth that in his dayes he saw Lizards with double tails, whereunto Americus Vespusius agreeth, for he saith, that he saw in a certain Island not far from Lisbon, a Lizard with a double tail. They have four feet, two behinde and two before, and the former feet bend backward, and the hinder feet forward, like to the knees of a man.

Now concerning the different kinds of Lizards, I must speak as briefly as I can in this place, where∣in I shall comprehend both the Countreys wherein they breed, and also their severall kinds, with some other accidents necessary to be known. There is a kinde of Lizard called Guarell, or Ʋ••ell, and * 1.241 Alguarill, with the dung whereof the Physitians do cure little pimples and spots in the face, and yet Bel••unensis maketh a question, whether this be to be referred to the Lizards or not, because Lizards are not found but in the Countrey, out of Cities, and these are found every where.

There is also another kinde of Lizard called Lacertus Martensis, which being salted, with the head and purple Wooll, Oyl of Cedar, and the powder of burnt Paper, so put into a linnen cloth, and rubbed upon a bald place, do cause the hair that is fallen off to come again. There be other Lizards, * 1.242 called by the Grecians Arurae, and by the Latines, Lacertae P••ssininae, which continually abide in green corn; these burned to powder, and the same mixed with the best wine and honey, do cure blinde eyes by an oyntment.

Albertus writeth, that a friend of his worthy of credit, did tell him that he had seen in Provence, a part of France, and also in Spain, Lizards as big as a mans leg is thick, but not very long, and these did inhabit hollow places of the earth, and that many times when they perceived a man or beast pass by them, they would suddenly leap up to his face, and at one blow pull off his cheek. The like also is reported of P••emont in France, where there be Lizards as great as little Puppies, and that the peo∣ple of the Countrey do seek after their dung or excrements, for the sweetnesse and other vertues thereof.

In Lybia there are Lizards two cubits long, and in one of the Fortunate Islands called Cap••••ria, * 1.243 there are also exceeding great Lizards.

In the Island of Dioscorides, neer to Arabia the lesser, there are very great Lizards, the flesh whereof the people eat, and the fat they seethe, and use in stead of Oyl: these are two cubits long, and I know not whether they be the same which the Africans call Du••h, and live in the deserts of Lybia. They drink nothing at all, for water is present death unto them, so that a man would think that this Serpent were made all of fire, because it is so presently destroyed with water. Being killed there cometh no bloud out of it, neither hath it any poyson but in the head and tayl. This the peo∣ple hunt after to eat, for the taste of the flesh is like the taste of Frogs flesh, and when it is in the hole or den, it is very hardly drawn forth, except with spades and mattocks, whereby the passages are opened, and being abroad it is swift of foot.

The Lizards of India, especially about the Mountain Nisa, are 24 foot in length, their colour va∣riable, * 1.244 for their skin seemeth to be flourished with certain pictures, soft and tender to be handled. I have heard that there hangeth a Lizard in the Kings house at Paris, whose body is as thick as a mans body, and his length or stature little lesse; it is said it was taken in a prison or common G••ole, being found sucking the legs of prisoners: and I do the rather beleeve this, because I remember such a thing recorded in the Chronicles of France, and also of another somewhat lesser, preserved in the same City, in a Church called Saint Anthonies. And to the intent that this may seem no strange nor incredible thing, it is reported by Volatteran, that when the King of Portugall had conquered cer∣tain Islands in Aethiopia, in one of them they slew a Lizard, which had devoured or swallowed down a whole infant, so great and wide was the mouth thereof: it was eight cubits long, and for a rare miracle it was hanged up at the gate Flumentana in Rome, in the roof, and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Besides these, there are other kinde of Lizards, as that called Lacerta vermicularis, because it liveth upon Worms and Spiders, in the narrow walls of old buildings. Also a silver-coloured Lizard, called Liacome, living in dry and sun-shining places. Another kinde called Senabras, and Adare, and Sennekie. Scen is a red Lizard, as Silvaticus writeth, but I rather take it to be the Scinck, or Croco∣dile of the earth, which abound neer the red Sea.

There is also another kinde of Lizard called Lacertus Solaris, a Lizard of the Sun, to whom Epipha∣nius compareth certain Hereticks called Samps••i, because they perceive their eye-sight to be dim and dull. They turn themselves fasting in their Caves to the East, or Sun-rising, whereby they recover their eye-sight again.

The picture of the Lizard with the belly upward.

[illustration]

In Sarmatia, a Countrey of the Rutenes, there is a Province called Samogithia, wherein the Lizards are very thick, black, and great, which the foolish Countrey people do worship very familiarly, as the Gods of good fortune; for when any good befalleth them, they entertain them with plentiful banquets and liberal chear: but if any harm or mischance happen unto them, then they withdraw that liberality, and intreat them more coursely, and so these dizzardly people think to make these Li∣zards by this means, more attentive and vigilant for their welfare and prosperity.

In the Proyince of Cataia, subject to the Tartars, there are very great Lizards, (or at least wise Serpents like Lizards) bred, containing in length ten yards, with an answerable and correspondent compasse and thicknesse.

Some of these want their fore-legs, in place whereof they have claws like the claws of a Lyon, or talons of a Falcon. Their head is great, and their eyes are like two great loaves. Their mouth and the opening thereof so wide, as it may swallow down a whole man armed, with great, long, and sharp teeth, so as never any man or other creature durst without terror look upon that Serpent. Where∣fore they have invented this art or way to take them.

The Serpent useth in the day time to lie in the Caves of the earth, or else in hollow places of Rocks and Mountains. In the night time it cometh forth to feed, ranging up and down seeking what it may devour, neither sparing Lyon, Bear, nor Bull, or smaller beast, but eateth all he meeteth with until he be satisfied, and returneth again to his den. Now for as much as that Countrey is very soft and miry: the great and heavy Bulk of this Serpent maketh as it were a Ditch by his weight in the sand or mire, so as where you see the trailing of his body, you would think there had been rowled some great vessel full of Wine, because of the round and deep impression it leaveth in the earth.

Now the Hunters which watch to destroy this beast, do in the day time fasten sharp stakes in the earth, in the path and passage of the Serpent especially neer to his hole or lodging, and these stakes are pointed with sharp Iron, and so covered in the earth or sand, whereby it cometh to passe, that when in his wonted manner he cometh forth in the night season to seed, he unawares fastneth his breast, or else mortally woundeth his belly upon one of those sharp-pointed stakes. Which thing the Hunters lying in wait observing, do presently upon the first noise with their swords kill him if he be alive, and so take out his gall which they sell for a great price, for therewithal the biting of a mad Dog is cured, and a woman in travel tasting but a little of it, is quiclky discharged of her burthen. It is good also against the Hemroids and Piles. Furthermore, the flesh of this Serpent is good to be eat∣en, and these things are reported by Paulus Venetus, and this story following.

As Americus Vesputius sayled in his journey from the Fortunate Islands, he came unto a Countrey where he found the people to feed upon sod flesh, like the flesh of a serpent, & afterwards they found this beast to be in all things like a Serpent without wings, for they saw divers of them alive, taken and kept by the people to kill at their own pleasure. The mouths whereof were fast tyed with ropes, so as they could not open them to bite either man or beast, and their bodies were tyed by the legs. The aspect of these beasts was fearful to his company, and the strangers which did behold it, for they took them to be Serpents, being in quantity as big as Roe-bucks, having long feet and strong claws, a speckled skin, and a face like a Serpent: from the nose to the tip of his tail, all along the back there grew a bristle, as it were the bristle of a Bore, and yet the said Nation feedeth upon them, and because of their similitude with Lizards, I have thought good to insert their relation among the Lizards in this place, leaving it to the further judgement of the Reader, whether they be of this kinde or not.

In C••lechu•• there are Serpents also, or rather beasts remaining in the fenny places of the Counrtey, whose bodies are all pild without hair like Serpents: also in their mouth, eyes, and tail they resem∣ble them, and in their feet Lizards, being as great as Boars, and although they want poyson, yet are

their teeth very hurtful where they fasten them. Like unto these are certain others bred in Hispani∣ola, in an Island called Hyvana, having prickles on their back, and a comb on their head, but with∣out voyce having four feet, and a tail like Lizards, with very sharp teeth. They are not much greater then Hares or Conies, yet they live indifferently in trees, and on the earth, being very patient, and induring famine many days. Their skin smooth and speckled like a Serpents, and they have a crap on the belly from the chin to the breast, like the crap of a Bird.

Besides these, there are also some called Ba••bati, about the bignesse of Conies, and of a white ash colour, yet their skin and tail like a Snakes, and they resemble trapped Horses. They have four feet, and with the foremost they dig them holes in the earth, out of which they are drawn again like Conies to be eaten of men, for they have a pleasant tast. To conclude, we do read that in the year 1543 there came many winged Serpents and Lizards into Germany, neer Syria, and did bite many mortally: And in the year 1551. there were such bred in the bodies of men and women, as we have shewed already in the general discourse of Serpents, first of all recited in the be∣ginning.

In all the nature of Lizards, there is nothing more admirable then that which is reported of them by Aelianus of his own knowledge. When a certain man had taken a great fat Lizard, he did put out her eyes with an Instrument of Brasse, and so put her into a new earthen pot, which had in it two small holes or passages, big enough to take breath at, but too little to creep out at, and with her moist earth and a certain hearb, the name whereof he doth not expresse: and further∣more, he took an Iron Ring, wherein was set an Engagataes Stone, with the Picture of a Lizard in∣graven upon it. And besides, upon the Ring he made nine several marks, whereof he put out every day one until at the last he came at the ninth, and then he opened the pot again, and the Lizard did see as perfectly as ever he did before the eyes were put out: whereof Albertus enquiring the reason, could give none, but having read in Isidorus, that when the Lizards grow old and their sight dim or thick, then they enter into some narrow hole of a Wall, and so set their heads therein, directly looking towards the East or Sun-rising, and so they recover their sight again. Of this Albertus giveth good reason, because he saith, the occasion of their blindenesse cometh from frigidity congealing the hu∣mor in their eyes, which is afterward attenuated and dissolved by the help and heat of the Sun. The voyce of the Lizard is like the voyce of other Serpents, and if it happen that any man by chance do cut the body of the Lizard asunder, so as one part falleth from another, yet neither part dyeth, but goeth away the upon two legs that are left, and live apart for a little season, and if it happen that they meet again, they are so firmly and naturally conjoyned by the secret operation of nature, as if they had never been severed, only the scar remaineth.

They live in caves of the earth, and in graves, and the green Lizards in the fields and Gardens, but the yellowish or earthy brown Lizard among hedges and thorns. They devour any thing that comes to their mouth, especially Bees, Emmets, Palmer-worms, Grassehoppers, Locusts, and such like things, and four months of the year they lie in the earth and eat nothing.

In the beginning of the year about March, they come out again of their holes, and give themselves to generation, which they perform by joyning their bellies together, wreathing their tails toge∣ther, and other parts of their bodies; afterwards the female bringeth forth Egges, which she com∣mitteth to the earth, never sitting upon them, but forgetteth in what place they were laid (for she hath no memory.) The young ones are conceived of themselves by the help of the Sun. Some there be which affirm that the old one devoureth the young ones assoon as they be hatched, except one which she suffereth to live, and this one is the basest and most dullard, having in it least spirit of all the residue: yet notwithstanding, afterwards it devoureth both his parents, which thing is proved false by Albertus, for seeing they want memory to finde out their own Egges, it is not likely that they have so much understanding as to discern their own young ones, nor yet so unnatual as to destroy the noblest of their brood, but rather they should imitate the Crocodile, which killeth the basest and spareth the best spirits.

It is affirmed, that they live but half a year or six months, but it is also false, for they hide them∣selves the four coldest moneths; and therefore it is likely that they live more then six, for else what time should they have for generation? Twice a year they change their skin, that is in the Spring and Autumn, like other Serpents that have a soft skin, and not hard like the Tortoises. Their place of conception and emission of their Egges is like to Birds: and therefore it is a needlesse question to enquire whether they bring egges forth of their mouth or not, as some have foolishly affirmed, but without all warrant of truth or nature.

They live by couples together, and when one of them is taken, the other waxeth mad, and rageth upon him that took it, whether it be male or female: In the Old Testament Lizards, Weasels, and Mice are accounted impure beasts, and therefore forbidden to be eaten, not only because they live in Graves and design inconstancy of life, but also theeves and treatherous persons. They are afraid of every noise, they are enemies to Bees, for they live upon them; and therefore in ancient time they mixed Meal and juyce of Mallows together, and laid the same before the Hives, to drive away Lizards and Crocodiles. They fight with all kinde of Serpents; also they devour Snails, and con∣tend with Toads and Scorpions. The Night-owls and Spiders do destroy the little Lizards, for the Spider doth so long winde her thred about the jaws of the Lizard, that he is not able to open his mouth, and then she fasteneth her stings in her brains. The Storks are also enemies to Lizards, ac∣cording to this saying of the Poet;

—Serpente ciconia pullos Nutrit & inventa per deviarura l••certa.

In English thus;

With Lizards young and Serpents breed, The Stork s••eketh her young ones to feed.

Notwithstanding, that by the law of God, men were forbidden to eat the Lizard, yet the Trogla∣dites, Ethiopians, did eat Serpents and Lizards, and the Amazons did eat Lizards and Tortoises, for in∣deed those women did use a very thin and slender diet; and therefore Coelius doth probably conje∣cture, that they were called Amazons, because Mazis carebant, that is, they wanted all manner of de∣licate fare. We have also shewed already, that the Inhabitants of Dioscorides Isle, do eat the flesh of Lizards, and the fat after it is boyled, they use in stead of Oyl.

Concerning the venom or poyson of Lizards, I have not much to say, because there is not much thereof written: yet they are to be reproved which deny they have any poyson at all, for it is ma∣nifest that the flesh of Lizards eaten, (I mean of such Lizards as are in Italy,) do cause an inflamation and apostumation, the heat of the head-ach, and blindenesse of the eyes. And the Egges of Lizards do kill speedily, except there come a remedy from Faulkons dung and pure Wine. Also when the Lizard biteth, he leaveth his teeth in the place, which continually aketh, until the teeth be taken out: the cure of which wound is first to suck the place, then to put into it cold water, and afterward to make a plaister of Oyl and Ashes, and apply the same thereunto. And thus much for the natural de∣scription of the Lizard.

The medicines arising out of the Lizard, are the same which are in the Crocodile, and the flesh thereof is very hot: wherefore it hath vertue to make fat, for if the fat of a Lizard be mixed with Wheat-〈…〉〈…〉al, Halinitre, and Cumin, it maketh Hens very fat, and they that eat them much fatter: for Gordan saith, that their bellies will break with fatnesse, and the same given unto Hawks, maketh them to change their feathers.

A L••zard dissected, or the head thereof being very well beaten with Salt, draweth out Iron points * 1.245 of nails, and splents out of the flesh or body of man, if it be well applyed thereunto, and it is also said, that if it be mingled with Oyl, it causeth hair to grow again upon the head of a man, where an Ulcer made it fall off. Likewise a Lizard cut a sunder hot, and so applyed, cureth the stinging of Scor∣pions, and taketh away Wens.

In ancient time with a Field-lizard dryed and and cut asunder, and so bruised in pieces, they did draw out teeth without pain; and with one of these sod and stamped, and applyed with Meal or Frankincense to the fore-head, did cure the watering of the eyes.

The same burned to powder, and mixed with Cretick Hony by an Ointment, cureth blindenesse. The Oyl of a Lizard put into the eat, helpeth deafnesse, and driveth out Worms if there be any there∣in. If children be anointed with the bloud fasting, it keepeth them from swellings in the belly and legs: also the liver and bloud lapped up in Wooll, draweth out nails and thorns from the flesh, and cureth all kinde of freckles, according to this verse of Serenus;

Verrucam po••erit sarguis curare Lace••ta.

That is to say;

The bloud of Lizards can, Cure feeckles in a man.

The urine (if there be any at all) helpeth the Rupture in Infants. The bones taken out of the Lizards head in the full Moon, do scarifie the teeth, and the brain is profitable for suffusions: The liver laid to the gums, or to hollow teeth easeth all pain in them. The dung purgeth wounds, and also taketh away the whitenesse and itching of the eyes, and so sharpneth the sight, and the same with water, is used for a salve. Arnoldus doth much commend the dung of Lizards mixed with Meal, the black thereof being cast away, and so dryed in a furnace, and softned again with water of Nitre, and froth of the Sea, afterwards applyed to the eyes in a cloth, is very profitable against all the former evils. And thus much shall suffice to have spoken of the first and vulgar kinde of Lizard: for killing of whom Apollo was in ancient time called Sauroctonos.

Of the GREEN LIZARD.

THe greater Lizard which is called Lacerta Vir••dis, the green Lizard, by the Grecians, Chlorosaura; by the Italians, Gez; and by the Germans, Gruner Heydox, is the same which is called Ophioma∣chus, because it fighteth with Serpents in the defence of man. They are of colour green, from whence they are named, and yet sometimes in the Summer they are also found pale. They are twice so big as the former Lizard, and come not neer houses, but keep in Medows and green fields. They only abound in Italy, and it is a beast very loving and friendly unto man, and an enemy to all other Ser∣pents. For if at any nime they see a man, they instantly gather about him, and saying their heads at the one side, with great admiration behold his face: and if it chance a man do spit, they lick up the

spittie joyfully, and it hath been seen that they have done the like to the urine of children and they are also handled of children without danger, gently licking moisture from their mouths. And if at any time three or four of them be taken, and so set together to fight, it is a wonder to see how eagerly they wound one another, and yet never set upon the man that put them together.

[illustration]

If one walk in the fields by hollow ways, bushes, and green places, he shall hear a noise, and see a motion as if Serpents were about him, but when he looketh earnestly upon them, they are Lizards wagging their heads, and beholding his person: and so if he go forward they follow him, if he stand still they play about him. One day (as Frasmus writeth) there was a Lizard seen to fight with a Serpent in the mouth of his own Cave, and whilest certain men beheld the same, the Lizard received a wound upon her cheek by the Serpent, who of green, made it all red, and had almost torn it all off, and so hid herself again in her den. The poor Lizard came running unto the beholders, and shewed her bloudy side, as it were desiring help and commiseration, standing still when they stood still, and following when they went forward, so that it acknowledged the soveraignty of man, appeal∣ing unto him as the chief Justice, against all his enemies and oppressors.

It is reported by the Italians, that many times while men fall asleep in the fields, Serpents come creeping unto them, and finding their mouths open, do slide down into their stomachs: Wherefore, when the Lizard seeth a Serpent coming toward a man so sleeping, she waketh him, by gently scratch∣ing his hands and face, whereby he escapeth death and deadly poyson.

The use of these green Lizards, is by their skin and gall to keep apples from rotting, and also to drive away Caterpillers, by hanging up the skin on the tops of trees, and by touching the apples with the said gall: also when the head. feet or intrails are taken away, the flesh of the green Lizard * 1.246 is given in meat to one that hath the Sciatica, and thus much for the natural uses of the green Li∣zard.

The remedies arising out of this Lizard, are briefly these: First it is used to be given to Hawks, and to be eaten in small pieces, provided so as it be not touched with their talons, for it will hurt their feet, and draw their claws together; also they seethe it in water, then beat it in a mortar: Last∣ly, when they have poured warm water upon it, they let the Hawk wash her feet in it, and so it causeth her to cast her old feathers and coat, and bringeth a new in the room thereof. This Lizard eaten with sauces to take away the loathing thereof, is good for the Falling-evil: and being sod in three pintes of Wine, until it be but one cup full, and thereof taken every day a spoonful, is good for them that have a disease in the lungs. It is also profitable for them that have pain in the loins And there are many ways to prepare it for the eyes, which I will not stand to relate in this place, because * 1.247 they are superstitious, and therefore likely to do more harm then good to the English Reader.

There is an Oyl made of Lizards, which is very precious, and therefore I will describe it as I finde it in Brasavolus. Take seven green Lizards, and strangle them in two pound of common Oyl, therein let them soke three days, and then take them out, and afterwards use this Oyl to anoint your face every day, but one little drop at once, and it shall wonderfully amend the same. The reason hereof seemeth to be taken from the operation of the dung or excrements, because that hath vertue to make the face white, and to take away the spots.

If the upper part in the pastern of a Horse be broken, put thereinto this Oyl with a little Vinegar, then rub the hoof about therewith, so shall it increase and grow again, and all the pain thereof shall passe away. The making of the medicine is this: Take a new earthen pot, put thereinto three pintes of Oyl, wherein you must drown your Lizards, and so seethe them till they are burned away, then take out the bones, and put in soft Lime half a-pound, liquid Pitch a pinte, of Swines grease two pound; then let them be all ••od together again & afterwards preserved and used upon the hoof as need shall require: for it shall fasten and harden the Horses hoof, and there is nothing better for this purpose then this Oyl. The ashes of a green Lizard do reduce skars in the body to their own co∣lour.

The bones of a green Lizard are good against the Falling-evil, if they be prepared in this manner following: Put your green Lizard alive into a vessel full of Salt, and there shut it in safe, so in few days it will consume all the flesh and intrails from the bones, and so the bones may be taken and used in this case like the hoof an Elk, which are very precious for this sicknesse, and no lesse precious are these bones. The bloud doth cure the beating, bruizings and thick skins in the feet of men and beasts, being applyed in flocks of Wooll.

The eye is superstitiously given to be bound to ones arm on a quartane Ague, and the eyes pressed out alive, and so included in golden buttons or bullets, and carryed about, do also help the pain of the eyes, and in default hereof the bloud taken out of the eyes in a piece of Purple wooll, hath the same operation. The heart of a Lizard is also very good against the exulcerations of the Kings-evil, if it be but carryed about in the bosome in some small silver vessel. The gall taketh away the hairs upon the eye-lids that are unseemly, if it be dryed in the same to the thicknesse of Honey, espe∣cially in the Dog-days, and mixed with White-wine then being anointed upon the place, it never suffereth the hairs to grow again. And thus much for the History of the green Lizard.

Of the MILLET or CENCHRINE.

[illustration]

THis Serpent called by the Grecians Cenchros, Cenchrines, Cenchridion, and Cenchrites; is by the La∣tines called Cenchria, Cenchrus, and Milliaris: because it cometh abroad at the time that Millet-seed floureth, and is ready to ripe, or else because it hath certain little spots upon it like Millet-seed; and is also of the same colour. It is likewise barbarously called Famusus, Aracis, and Falivisus. The Germans of all others have a name for it, for they call it Punter-schlang, and Berg-schlang. Other Nations not knowing it cannot have any name for it; and therefore I cannot faign any thereof, except I should lie grosly in the beginning of the History. This Serpent is only bred in Lemnus and Same∣thracia, and it is there called a Lyon, either because it is of very great quantity and bignesse, or else because the scales thereof are spotted and speckled like the Lybian Lyons: or because when it fight∣eth * 1.248 the tail is turned upward like a Lyons tail, and as a Lyon doth. But it is agreed at all hands, that it is called Milliaris, a Millet, because in the spots of his skin and colour it resembleth a Millet-seed; which caused the Poet to write on this manner;

Pluribus ille notis variatam tingitur alvum; Quàm parvis tinctus maculis Thebanus Ophites.

In English thus;

With many notes and spots, his belly is bedyed Like Thebaneher, Ophites sighily tryed.

But not only his belly, for his back and whole skin is of the same fashion and colour. The length of this Serpent is about two cubits, and the thick body is attenuated toward the end, being sharp at the tail. The colour is dusky and dark like the Millet, and it is then most ireful and full of wrath or courage, when this herb or seed is at the higohst. The pace of this Serpent is not winding or tra∣vailing, but straight, and directed without bending to and fro: and therefore saith Lucan; Et semper rectolapsurus limite Cenchris: that is, And the Millet alway standing in a straight and right line, and for this cause when a man flyeth away from it, he must not run directly forward, but winde to and fro, crooking like an Indenture, for by reason thereof this Serpents large body cannot so easily and with the like speed turn to follow and persue, as it can directly forward.

It is a very dangerous Serpent to meet withal, and therefore not only the valiantest man, but also the strongest beast is, and ought justly to be afraid thereof, for his treacherous deceits and strength of body; for when it hath gotten the prey or booty, he beclapseth it with his tail, and giveth it fearful blows, in the mean time fasteneth his jaws or chaps to the man or beast, and sucketh out all the bloud till it be fully satisfied; and like a Lyon he beateth also his own sides, setting up the spires of his body when he assalteth any adversary, or taketh any resisting booty. I take this to be the same called in Slcilia, Serpaserena, which is sometimes as long as a man, and as great as the arm about

the wrist. In the heat of Summer they get themselves to the Mountain, and there seize upon cattel of all sorts, as often as anger or wrath enforceth them.

The nature of it is very hot, and therefore venomous in the second degree: wherefore when it hath bitten any, there followeth putrefaction and rottennesse, as flesh where water lyeth betwixt the skin, like as in the Dropsie: for besides, the common affections it hath with the Viper, and the bi∣ting thereof, alike in all things, more deadly and unresistible evils followeth, as drouzy, sleepinesse, and Lethargy, and pain in the belly, especially the Golick, pain in the liver and stomach, killing with∣in two days, if remedy be not provided.

The cure is like the cure of the Vipers biting, Take the seed of Lettice, and Flax-seed, Savory bea∣ten or stamped, and wilde Rue, wilde Betony, and Daffadil two drams in three cups of Wine, and drink the same, immediately after the drinking hereof, drink also two drams of the root of Centau∣ry, or Hartwort, Nosewort, or Gentian, or Sesamine. And thus much for a description of this ve∣nomous Serpent, one of the greatest plagues to man and beast in all those Countries or places, where∣in it is ingendered, and it is not the least part of English happinesse to be freed by God and Nature from such noysome, virulent and dangerous neighbours.

Of the NEVTE or WATER-LIZARD.

[illustration]

THis is a little black Lizard, cal∣led Wassermoll, & Wasseraddex, that is a Lizard of the Water. In French, Tassot; and in Italian Ma∣rasandola, which word is derived from Marasso, a Viper, because the poyson hereof is like the poyson of Vipers, and in the Greek it may be termed Enudros Sauros. They live in standing waters or pools, as in ditches of Towns and Hedges. The colour as we have said is black, and the length about two fingers, or scarse so long. Under the belly it is white, or at least hath some white small spots on the sides and belly: yet sometimes there are of them that are of a dusty earthy colour, and towards the tail yellowish. The skin is strong and hard, so as a knife can scarse cut the same, and being cut, there issueth out a kinde of white mattery li∣quor, like as is in Salamanders.

Being taken, it shutteth the mouth so hard as it cannot be easily opened, neither doth it endevour to bite, although it be plucked and provoked. The tongue is very short and broad, and the teeth so short and small, as they are scarcely visible within the lips. Upon the fore feet it hath four fin∣gers or claws, but upon the hinder-feet it hath five. The tail standeth out betwixt the hinder-legs in the middle, like the figure of a wheel-whirl, or rather so contracted, as if many of them were con∣joyned together, and the void or empty places in the conjunctions were filled. The tail being cut off, liveth longer then the body, as may be seen in every days experience, that is, by motion giveth longer signes and token of life.

This Serpent is bred in fat waters and soils, and sometimes in the ruines of old walls, especi∣ally they delight in white muddy waters, hiding themselves under stones in the same water if there be any, and if not, then under the banks side of the earth, for they seldome come to the land. They swim underneath the water, and are rarely seen at the top. Their egges are not past so big as pease, and they are found hanging together in clusters. One of these being put alive into a glasse of wa∣ter, did continually hold his head above the water like as Frogs do, so that thereby it may be con∣jectured it doth often need respiration, and keepeth not under water except in fear, and seeking af∣ter meat.

There is nothing in nature that so much offendeth it as Salt, for so soon as it is laid upon Salt, it endeavoureth with all might and main to run away, for it biteth and stingeth the little beasts above measure, so that it dyeth sooner by lying in Salt where it cannot avoid, then it would by suffering many stripes, for being beaten it liveth long, and dyeth very hardly. It doth not like to be without water, for if you try one of them, and keep it out of water but one day, it will be found to be much the worse.

Being moved to anger, it standeth upon the hinder-legs, and looketh directly in the face of him that hath stirred it, & so continueth til all the body be white, through a kind of white humor or poy∣son, that it swelleth outward, to harm (if it were possible) the person that did provoke it: And by this is their venomous nature observed to be like the Salamander, although their continual abode in the water, maketh their poyson the more weak.

Some say that if in France a Hog do eat one of these, he dyeth thereof, and yet doth more safely eat the Salamander. But in England it is otherwise, for I have seen a Hog without all harm carry in his mouth a Newt, and afterward eat it. There be some Apothecaries which do use this Newt in

stead of Skinks or Crocodiles of the earth, but they are deceived in the vertues and operation, and do also deceive other, for there is not in it any such wholesome properties, and therefore not to be applyed without singular danger. And thus much may suffice to be said for this little Serpent, or Water-creeping creature.

Of the PELIAS.

AEtius making mention of the Elaps and Pelias, two kindes of Serpents, doth joyntly speak of them in this sort, saying that the signes of these Serpents were so common and vulgarly known, that there was no descriptions of them among the ancient Writers. But the Pelias biting causeth putrefaction about the wound or bitten place, but yet not very dangerous, and it bring∣eth obfuscation or dimnesse to the eyes, by reason that as the poyson is universally distributed over all the body, so it hath most power over the tenderest part, namely the eyes. It is cured by a Pti∣sane with Oyl in drink, and a decoction of such Docks as grow in ditches, and other simple medi∣cines, such as are applyed to the curing of the Yellow-jaundise. The eyes must be washed with the urine of a childe or young man which never knew any woman carnally, and this may be applyed either simply and alone, or else by Brine and Pickle, so also must the head. After that the body is purged, anoint it with Balsamum and Honey, and take an Eye-salve to sharpen again and reco∣ver the sight, and for this cause it is very good to weep, for by evacuation of tears, the venom also will be expelled. But if the eyes grow to pain, then let their Eye-salve be made more temperate and gentle, to keep the head and brain from stupefaction. And thus much for the Pelias out of Aetius.

Of the PORPHYRE.

THere is among the Indians a Serpent about the bignesse of a span or more, which in outward aspect is like to the most beautiful and well coloured Purple, the head hereof is exceeding white, and it wanteth teeth. This Serpent is fought for in the highest Mountains, for out of him they take the Sardius stone. And although he cannot bite because he wanteth teeth, yet in his rage when he is persecuted, he casteth forth a certain poyson by vomit, which causeth putrefaction where ever it lighteth. But if it be taken alive and be hanged up by the tail, it rendereth a double, one whiles it is alive, the other when it is dead, both of them black in colour, but the first resembleth black Amber. And if a man take but so much of the first black venom as is the quantity of a Sesa∣mine seed, it killeth him presently, making his brains to fall out at his nostrils, but the other work∣eth neither so speedily, nor after the same manner; for it casteth one into a Consumption, and kil∣leth within the compasse of a year. But I finde Aelianus, Volateran, and Textor to differ from this relation of Ctesias, for they say, that the first poyson is like to the drops of Almond trees, which are congealed into a gum, and the other which cometh from it when he is dead, is like to thin matte∣ry water. Unto this Porphyre I may add the Palmer Serpent, which Strabo writeth doth kill with an unrecoverable poyson, and it is also of a Scarlet colour, to the loyns or hinder-parts.

Of the PRESTER.

ALthough there be many Writers which confound together the Prester & the Dipsas, and make of them but one kinde, or Serpent of divers names, yet seeing on the contrary there he as ma∣ny or more which do distinguish or divide them, and make them two in nature different, one from another, the Dipsas killing by thirst, and the Prester by heat, as their very names do signifie, there∣fore I will also trace the steps of this latter opinion, as of that which is more probable and conso∣nant to truth.

The Grecians call it Prester of Prethein, which signifieth to burn or inflame, and Tremellius and Junius think, that the Serpents called fiery Serpents, which did sting the Israelitos in the Wilder∣nesse, were Presters. We finde in Suidas, Prester for the fire of Heaven, or for a cloud of fire carryed about with a vehement strong winde, and sometimes lightenings. And it seemeth that this is indeed a fiery kinde of Serpent, for he himself always goeth about with open mouth, panting and brea∣thing as the Poet writeth;

Oraque distendens avidus fumantia Prester, Inficil, ut laesus tumida membra gorat.

Which may be Englished thus;

The greedy Presters wide-open foming mouth Infects, and swelleth, making the members by un••outh.

When this Serpent hath struck or wounded, there followeth an immeasurable swelling, distra∣ction, conversion of the bloud to matter, and corrupt inflamation taking away freedom or easinesse

of aspiration, likewise dimming the sight, of making the hair to fall off from the head; at last suf∣focation as it wereby fire, which is thus described by Mantuan upon the person of one Narsidus, say∣ing as followeth;

Ecce subit facies leto diversa fluenti. Narsidium Marsi cultorem torridus agri Percussit prester: illi rubor igneus ora Succendii, tendit{que} cutem pereunte figura, Misoens ouncta tumor toto jam corpore major. Humanum{que} egressa modum super omnia membra Efflatur Sanies, latè tollente veneno. Ipse late penitus congesto corpore mersus. Nec lorica tenet distenti corporis auctum. Spumeus accenso non sic exundat aheno Ʋndarum cumulus: nec tanto carbasa Core Curvavere sinus: tumides j am non capit artus Informis globus & confuso pondere tri••••••. Intactum voluctum rostris, epulas{que} duturum Haud impune feris, non aufi tradere busto, Nondum siante modo crescens fugere cadaver.

Which may be thus Englished;

Lo suddenly a divers fate the joyful current stayed, Narsidius, which Marsinus mirror did adere, By burning sting of scorching Prester dead was layed, For fiery colour his face enflam'd, not as before. The first appearing visage faild, all was out-stretcht, Swelling cover'd all, and bodies grosnesse doubled Surpassing humane bounds and members all ore reacht, Aspiring venom spreads matter blown in carkasse troubled. The man lyeth drownd within swoln bodies banks, No girdle can his monstrous growth contain. Not so are waters swoln with rage of sandy flanks, Nor sails bend down to blustering Corus wain. Now can it not the swelling sinews keep in hold, Deformed globe it is, and trunk ore-come with waight, Ʋntoucht of flying Fowls, no beaks of young or old Do him dare eat, or beasts full wilde upon the body bait, But that they die: No man to ••ury in earth or fire Durst once come nigh, nor stand to look upon that haplesse cste, For never ceased the heat of corps, though dead to swell, Therefore afraid they ran away with speedy pace.

The cure of the poyson of this Serpent, is by the Physitians found out to be wilde Purslain, also the flowers and stalk of the bush, the Beavers stone called Castoreum, drunk with Opoponax and Rew in Wine, and the little Sprat-fish in diet. And thus much of this fire-burning venomous Serpent.

Of the RED SERPENT.

[illustration]

THis kinde of Serpent being a Serpent of the Sea, was first of all found out by Pelicerius Bishop of Montpelier as Rondoletus writeth, and although some have taken the same for the Myrus or Berus, of which we have spoken already, yet is it manifest that they are deceived, for it hath gills covered with a bony covering, and also fins to swim withal, much greater then those of the My∣rus, which we have shewed already to be the male Lamprey. This Serpent therefore for the outward proportion thereof, is like to the Serpents of the land, but of a red or purplish colour, being full of crooked or oblique lines, descending from the back to the belly, and dividing or breaking that long line of the back, which beginneth at the head, and so stretcheth forth to the tail.

The opening of his mouth is not very great, his teeth are very sharp and like a saw, his gils like scaly fishes, and upon the ridge of his back, all along to the tail, and underneath upon the rine or brim of his belly are certain hairs growing, or at the least thin small things like hairs, the tail being shut up in one undivided fine. Of this kind no doubt are those which Bellonius saith he saw by the lake Abydus, which live in the waters, and come not to the land but for sleep, for he affirmeth that they are like land Serpents, but in their colour they are red spotted, with some small and dusky spots. Gillius also saith, that among the multitude of Sea Serpents, some are like Congers, and I cannot tell whether that of Virgil be of this kinde or not, spoken of by Laocoon the Priest of Neptune.

Solennes taurum ingentem mactabat adaras. Ecce autem gemini à Tenedo tranquilli per alta (Horreico referens) immensis orbibus angues Incumbunt peiago: pariter{que} adlittora tendunt. Pectora quorum inter fluctus arrecta, jubaeque Sanguineae exuperant andas: pars caetera pontum Pone legit, sinuatque immensa volumine terga. Fit sonitus spurnante salo, &c.—

Which may be Englished thus;

〈◊〉〈◊〉 be a Bull at Al••ars solemn sacrifice, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (I fear to tell) two monstrom Snakes appeared, Out of Tenedus shore both calm and deep did rise One p••••t in Sea, the other on Land was reared: Their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and red bloud manes on waters mounted, But back and tail on Land from foaming Sea thus sounded.

Of the SALAMANDER.

[illustration]

I Will not contrary their opinion which reckon the Salamander among the kindes of Lizards, but leave the assertion as somewhat tolerable: yet they are not to be followed, or to be be∣lieved, which would make it a kinde of Worm, for there is not in that opinion either reason or resemblance. What this Beast is called among the Hebrews I cannot learn, and therefore I judge that the Jews (like many other Nations) did not acknowledge that there was any such kinde of creature, for ignorance bringeth infidelity in strange things and propo∣sitions.

The Grecians call it Salamandra, which word or term is retained almost in all languages, especially in the Latine, and therefore Isidore had more boldnesse and wit, then reason, to derive the Latine Sa∣lamandra, quasi Valincendram, resisting burning, for being a Greek word, it needeth not a Latine nota∣tion. The Arabians call it Saambras, and Samabras, which may well be thought to be derived or ra∣ther corrupted, from the former word Salamandra, or else from the Hebrew word Semamit, which signifieth a Stellion. Among the Italians and Rhaetians it retaineth the Latine word; and sometimes in Rhaetia it is called Rosada. In the Dukedom of Savoy, Pluvina. In France, Sourd, Blande, Albrenne, and Arrassade, according to the divers Provinces in that Kingdom. In Spain it is called Salamamegua. In Germany it is called by divers names, as Maall, and Punter maall, Olm, Moll, and Molch, because of a kinde of liquor in it like milk, as the Greek word Molge, from amelgein to suck milk. Some in the Countrey of Helvetia do call it Quatiertesh. And in Albertus it is likewise called Rimatrix. And thus much may suffice for the name thereof.

The description of their several parts followeth, which as Avio••n and other Authors write, is very like small and vulgar Lizard, except in their quantity, which is greater; their legs taller, and their tail longer. They are also thicker and fuller then a Lizard, having a pale white belly, and one part of their skin exceeding black, the other yellow like Verdigrease, both of them very splendent and glistering, with a black line going all along their back, having upon it many little spots like eyes: And from hence it cometh to be called a Stellion, or Animal stellatum, a creature full of stars, and the skin is rough and bald, especially upon the back where those spots are, out of which as writeth the Scholiast, issueth a certain liquor or humor, which quencheth the heat of the fire when it is in the same.

This Salamander is also four-footed like a Lizard, and all the body over it is set with spots of black * 1.249 and yellow, yet is the sight of it abominable and fearful to man. The head of it is great, and some-times they have yellowish bellies and tails, and sometimes earthy. It is some question among the learned, whether there be any discretion of sex, as whether there be in this kinde a male and a female. Pliny affirmeth that they never engender, and that there is not among them either male or female, no more then there are among Eeles. But this thing is justly crossed, both by Bellonius and Agricola, for they affirm upon their own knowledge, that the Salamander engendereth her young ones in her bel∣ly like unto the Viper, but first conceiveth egs, and she bringeth forth forty and fifty at a time, which are fully perfected in her womb, and are able to run or go so soon as ever they be littered: and therefore there must be among them both male and female.

The Countries wherein are found Salamanders, are the Region about Trent, and in the Alpes, and sometime also in Germany. They most commonly frequent the coldest and moistest places, as in the shadow of Woods in hedges neer Fountains and Rivers, and sometimes they are found among Corn and Thorns, and among Rocks. They are seldom seen except it be either in the Spring-time, or against rain, and for this cause it is called Animal vernale, and Pluviosum, a Spring or rainy creature. And yet there were many of them found together in a hole neer unto the City Sneberg in Germany, in the month of February, for they love to live in flocks and troups

together, and at another time in November, a living Salamander was found in a Fountain. How beit, if at any time it be seen forraging out of his den or lodging place, it is held for an assured presage of rain. But if the Spring-time fortune to be cold or frosty, then they keep home, and go not visibly abroad.

Some do affirm that it is as cold as Ice, and that it therefore quencheth heat or fire like a piece of Ice, which if it be true, then is the old Philosophical Maxime utterly false, namely, that all living creatures are hot and moist, being compared to creatures without life and sense, for there is not any dead or senselesse body that so quencheth fire as Ice doth. But the truth is, that the Salamander is cold, and colder then any Serpent, yet not without his natural heat, which being compared to Ar∣mans, may truly be said to be hot, and therefore the venom of the Salamander is reckoned among Septicks, or corroding things.

It naturally loveth milk, and therefore sometimes in the Woods or neer hedges, it sucketh a Cow * 1.250 that is laid, but afterwards that Cows udder or stock dryeth up, and never more yeeldeth any milk. It also greatly loveth the Honey-combe, and some Authors have affirmed, that they use to gape after air or fresh breath, like the Chamaeleon, yet they which have kept Salamander••h glasses, never p••••ceived by them any such thing. They are slow of pace, and void ground very sluggishly, and therefore it is justly tearmed a heavy and slothful Beast.

But the greatest matter in the Salamander to be enquired after, is whether it can live and be nou∣rished by and in the fire, or whether it can passe through the fire without any harm, or quench and put out the same. Which opinions in the very relation and first hearing, do crosse one another, for how can that either be nourished or live in the fire, which quencheth the same being put into it? Aristotle that never saw a Salamander himself, but wrote thereof by hear-say, hath given some co∣lour to this opinion, because he writeth, Nonnulla corpora esse animalium quae igne non absumaniur Sala∣mandra documento est: quae (ut aiunt) ignem inambulans eum extinguit. That is to say, the Salamander is an evidence, that the bodies of some creatures are not wasted or consumed in the fire, for (as some say) it walketh in the fire and extinguisheth the same.

Now whether this beseemed so great a Philosopher, to write upon hear-say, who took upon him to gather all natural learning into his own Graunge or store-house, and out of the same to fur∣nish both the present and all future ages, I leave it to the consideration of every indifferent Reader that shall peruse this story. I for mine own part, rather judge it to be lightnesse in him, to insert a matter of this consequence in the discourse of this Beast, without either Authors, or ex∣perience gathered by himself. This one thing I marvail at, why the Egyptians, when they will ex∣presse * 1.251 or signifie a Man burnt, do in their Hieroglyphicks paint a Salamander, except either fire can burn a Salamander, or else contrary to all their custom, they demonstrate one contrary by another.

Nicander plainly affirmeth, that the Salamander doth without all harm passe through the fire, and the Scholiast addeth, that there are certain passages in the skin, out of which issueth a kinde of li∣quor that quencheth the fire: And he telleth a story of one Andreas, who did dip a piece of cloth in the bloud of a Salamander, and tryed afterward whether it would burn or not, but did not finde that it would burn, wherefore he put it upon his hand, and thrust that into the fire, and then also he felt no manner of pain. And therefore the said Nicander calleth this creature Ciporrhinon, because of a certain fat humor which issueth out of it, quenching the fire, but I rather think that this fat humor maketh the skin to glister, for if it were properly fat, it would rather kindle and increase the fire then quench or extinguish the same.

Suidas followeth the common received opinion, that the Salamander quencheth the fire, (al∣though it be not bred of the fire as Krickets are) like Ice; and when the fire is so quenched, it is in vain to blow or kindle the same again with any bellows, as they say have been tryed in the Forges of Smiths. And this also caused Serenus to write, Seu Salamandra potens, nullis{que} obnoxia flammis: the po∣tent Salamander is never hurt by flames. Seneca consenteth hereunto, and Zoroastres: and so great hath been the dotage about this opinion, that some have written that it ascendeth up to the fire neer the Moon, far above the reach of the Eagles or swiftest Fowls. Thus say they that write, and maintain the Salamanders abiding in the fire without harm. Now on the contrary, let us also hear their opinions, which deny this natural operation in the Salamander.

Pliny affirmeth, that in his own experience he found that a Salamander was consumed in the fire, and not the fire by it, for he saith he burned one to powder, and used the same powder in medicines.

Sextus also denyeth that it quencheth the fire, and unto this opinion agreeth Dioscorides. Actius writeth, that when it is first put into the fire, it divideth the flame, and passeth through speedily without harm, but if it tarry long therein it is burned and consumed, because the liquor or humidity thereof is wasted. And this is also granted by Galen, Theophrastus, and Niphus. And Matthaeolus affirm∣eth that he tryed the same, and found that if burning coals were laid upon it, then it burned like un∣to any other raw flesh, but being cast into the fire, it burneth not speedily.

Albertus writeth, that there were some which brought to him a certain thing which they called Wooll, and said that it would not burn, but he found it not Lana, Wooll, but Lamygo, that is, a va∣poury adhaerency of a thing which flyeth from the strokes of hammers upon hot burning Iron, and being collected upon cloth, or cleaving to any part of the Forge, it there becometh in shew like yellowish pale Wooll.

The said Author affirmeth, that he took a Spider, and laid the same upon a hot burning Iron, where it continued unburned and unharmed without motion a great while, by reason of his thick skin and coldnesse, and unto another he suffered a little candle to be put, which instantly put it out. And for the same causes, that is to say, both the thicknesse of the skin, and cold constitution, com∣eth it to passe, that a Salamander can live so long in the fire without burning or consuming to ashes: for indeed the skin thereof is so hard, that it is cut or pierced with a knife with great difficulty; and so when the force of the fire hath broken the skin, then also issueth forth a cold humor, which for a season keepeth the heat out. For this Beast is said to be very full of humor, and the certainty thereof may most manifestly appear by his full and grosse body, and also by this, that it is seldom seen to issue or come forth of his den, except it be against rainy weather, and yet as the egges of other Serpents being cast into a hot burning furnace, do for a season rest in the same unburned, and yet are afterward consumed, so is it with the Salamander.

There be some that have found a web out of the hair growing upon Salamanders, which can by * 1.252 no means be set on fire, but this is very false, because the Salamander hath no hair upon it at all. And this kinde of web rather cometh of a kinde of flax that Pliny writeth of, or rather of the Amiantus-stone, called the Asbest, which is found in Cyprus, whereof they used to make coverings for the Thea∣ters. This being cast into a fire, seems to be forthwith all in a flame, but being taken out again, it * 1.253 shineth the more gloriously.

Some also do affirm, that such a piece of cloth or web, may be wrought out of the Salamanders skin, but Brasavolus denyeth both the vertue of the stone, and of the Salamanders hide or shell, for he saith he tryed the stone, and it would not be wrought into wooll or spun into thread, and when he cast the Salamanders shell or hide into the fire, it burned, and the mattery cold liquor thereof did almost flie into his face.

But some then will demand, where had Pope Alexander that coat, which could not be purged but by fire, which made it alway as white as Snow, or that map or net at Rome, wherein (it is said) the Napkin of our Saviour Christ is preserved, which men say is not washed but in the fire, which thing was sent to a Bishop of Rome for a present from the King of Tartars. Unto whom I answer out of Paulus Venetus as followeth. There is a Province in Tartaria called Chinchnitalas, wherein is a Moun∣tain abounding with Mines of Steel and Copper; now in this Mountain there is a kinde of earth digged up, which yeeldeth a thred like the thred of Wooll. After the digging of it up they dry it in the Sun, and then beat it in a brazen mortar, afterward they spin it and weave it, in the same man∣ner that they spin and weave other woollen cloth. After it is made, they have no means to purge it from spots or from filthinesse, but to cast it into the fire for the space of an hour, and then it is ta∣ken forth again as white as any snow.

There is also an Allum called Alumen Sciolae, and it is the same which among the Ancients is called Aster samius, out of which also is made cloth that cannot burn, by reason of a certain Oyl that it containeth or yeeldeth to resist the fire. So out of the stone Pyritis found in Kisheba, there cometh * 1.254 out a green liquor pressed with dead coals, and after that, no fire can burn that cloth. There are al∣so certain Mantles in Bohemia, (as witnesseth Agricola) which could never be burned. And out of Magnesia a scaly stone in Boldecrana, they make tables, which cannot be clensed but by fire. It is also recorded, that the fore-named Aster samius, and pitch quenched in the juyce of Mallows or Mercu∣rial, being anointed upon a mans hand, doth keep them from burning, or sense of extraordinary heat. So Albertus writeth of a stone which he calleth Iscullos, or Iscustos, which I take to be a kinde of the Aibeste or Amiantus. And this stone is found (as the same Author writeth) in the farthest parts of Spain, neer the Straights and Hercules-pillars.

And this thing seemeth the lesse strange, because they which are anointed with Bird-lime, or else with Vinegar and the white of an egge, do not so quickly feel the strength of fire and heat, when they thrust their hands into the midst of it. It is also found, that the hearts of them that die * 1.255 of the heart-burning disease, or else are killed by poyson, cannot be burned with fire. And there∣fore when Germanicus Caesar was dead, it being suspected that he was poysoned by Piso, they cast his heart into the fire and it would not burn, which thing was alleadged against him by Vitellius the Oratour. And one Aesculapius in an Epistle which he wrote to Octavian Augustus saith, that there is a poyson so extream cold, that it keepeth the heart of a man poysoned therewith from burning, and if it lie long in the fire, it waxeth as hard as a stone, which so concreted is called Profi∣lis, from the force of the fire, and from the matter whereof it consisteth it is called an humane stone. He also saith, that this is red in colour, mixed with some white, and is accounted precious, because both it maketh a man that weareth it to be a Conqueror, and also preserveth him from all manner of poyson.

When the Salamander is provoked, it casteth forth a white mattery liquor or humor, and it is an audacious and bold creature, standing to his adversary, and not flying the sight of a man; and so much the lesse, if it perceive that a man prosecute and follow it, to harm and kill it. The biting of it is very exitial and deadly, and therefore the French men use this speech upon the biting of a Sa∣lamander;

Si mordu t'a une aressade, Prens ton linceul & ta flassade.

That is, if a Salamander bite you, then betake you to the coffin and winding sheet. The Rhaetians do ordinarily affirm, that when a man is bitten by a Salamander, he hath need of as many Physitians as the Salamander hath spots. And Arnoldus saith, that it hath in it as many venoms and means of hurt∣ing, as it hath colours distinguished one from another. For when it once biteth and fasteneth teeth, it never letteth go, and being pulled off, it leaveth the teeth behinde, and then there never can be any remedy, and therefore it must be suffered to hang upon the wound until it fall off, either willingly or wearied, or else compelled by the medicines that the wounded patient receiveth. For by this means only is the patient kept alive: yet this is alway to be remembred, that the Salamander doth not alway bite, although provoked, for Gesner affirmeth, that he having two of them, could never by beat∣ing make them open their mouths, nor that in all his life did he ever hear of any man bitten by them. And of this thing he not only gathereth the difference of time, wherein their rage sheweth it self by biting, and when not, but also the difference of place and region, for that they bite in some Countries, and not in other. When they have bitten, there followeth a vehement pain and scab upon the place, for the cure whereof there must be taken a decoction of Frogs, and the bròth must be drunk, and the flesh applyed to the sore; or else other common remedies against the poyson pre∣scribed in the Treatise following.

The poyson hereof is great, and not inferior to the poyson of any other Serpent, for some-times by creeping upon Apple-trees, it infecteth and poysoneth all the fruit, so that those which eat the same, die and languish they know not whereof: and if the heel of a man do but touch any small part or portion of the spittle of a Salamander, it maketh all the hair of the body to fall off. The poyson it self is not cold, as some have thought, but hot, like to the poyson of Cantharides, and therefore to be cured by the same means, as by vomits, Glysters, Ephemeron, and such like. * 1.256 Only Swine do eat Salamanders without harm or damage, for there is in them a kinde of re∣sistance in nature, and yet if Man or Dog do chance to eat of that Swine that hath eaten a Sala∣mander, it hath been observed that they perished by the same. And this poyson spreadeth it self the further when it is dead, because it is strengthened by putrefaction, and Wine and Water wherein one of these lyeth dead, is empoysoned and made mortal thereby to others. But in our days Salamanders are not so venomous, if there be any credit in Brasavolus, howbeit I have heard and read, that if at this day a Salamander get into a heap of corn, she so infecteth it, that whatsoever eateth of that corn, dyeth as it were of poyson, and the Kine of Helvetia, which are sucked by Salaman∣ders, do ever after remain barren, and without milk, and sometime also they die of that evil. And as Arnoldus writeth, it casteth forth a certain mattery white humor like milk out of the mouth, whereupon if a man or any other living creature do but tread, he is poysoned thereby, and at the least, all the hair of their body falleth off, and in like sort they infect herbs and plants of the earth by their poyson.

Sometimes it happeneth that beasts or men have swallowed Salamanders, and then the tongue is inflamed, and all the body falleth into grievous torment, by cold corruption and putrefaction, part after part, and also pains in the fundament and in the stomach, likewise Dropsies, and Impo∣stumation in the belly, cramp of the guts, and retention of the urine. For the cure whereof they give sweet water, Calamints, Saint Johns Wort, sod with the shells of Pine-apples, leafs of Cypresse, Galbanus, and Honey or Rozen, Ammoniack, and Stirax, New Cow-milk, the meal made of Flax-seed with sweet water, sweet Wine and Oyl to cause vomits: Scammony, and a decoction of Calamints and Figs, fat Bacon or Hogs-flesh, and also the Egges of a Tortoise, with the flesh thereof; besides infinite other remedies, ordained by the goodnesse of Almighty God, as Physi∣tians know by their own studies and daily experiments. And therefore I hold it sufficient for me to have lightly touched them, referring those that are desirous to know more, unto the learned col∣lection of Carromus.

Out of the Salamander it self arise also some medicines, for it a hath a septick power to eate and corrode to take away hairs, and the powder thereof cureth corns and hardnesse in the feet. The hear tyed to the wrist in a black skin, taketh away a quartain Ague; and also Kiranides writeth, that being bound unto a womans thigh, it stayeth her monethly flowers, and keepeth her barren: But this is worthily reproved for untruth, and therefore I will not commend it to the Reader. And thus much for the Salamander.

Of the SCORPION.

SCorpios in Greek is attributed both to the Scorpion of the Land and of the Sea, although some-times for difference sake, the Scorpion of the earth be called Scorpios chersaios. The derivation is manifold according to some Writers, either of Scorpizein ton ion, that is, dispersing his poy∣son, or of Sckanoos erpein, because the motion of it is oblique, inconstant and uncertain, like as the flame of fire beaten with a small winde. The Grecians also use for a Scorpion Blesta, because it casteth poyson, and Octopos from the number of his eight feet. And in Aethiopia there is a kinde of Scorpion which the Greeks call Sybritae. The Latines doe use indiffe∣rently Scorpius, Sorpio nepa, and Cancer also Vinula and Geptaria, as we finde in Ponzettus. The Arabians have many words, as Harab, Acrob, Achrach, and Satoracon, Hacbarab, Al∣gerarat, Algeterat, and Algenat and Alkatareti, for little Scorpions which draw their tails after

them. Howbeit, among these names also Algarat signifieth that little kinde of Scorpions, and Alga∣raret the Scorpion with bunches on his back. The Hebrewes according to the opinion of some, call a Scorpion Acchabim; the Italians, Scurtigicio, and Scorpione terrestre; the French, Ʋn Scorpion; the Spe∣niards, Alacram and Alacrani, which name they have also given to an Island in the West-Indies subject to their dominion. In Castilia it is called Escorpion, and in Germany, Ein Scorpion.

The Countries which breed

[illustration]

Scorpions, are these that fol∣low. * 1.257 In Egypt, neer the City Coptus, are very many great & pestilent stinging Scorpions, who kill as soon as they smite. Also Aethiopia and Numidia * 1.258 abound with Scorpions, espe∣cially the later, wherein (as writeth Leo Afric) are every yeer found very many that die of their wounds. Tenas one of the Cyclades Islands, is called Ophiessa, because it yeelds many Serpents and Scorpions. Also in that part of Mauritania which is neer the West, are Scorpions with wings and without wings: likewise in Iberia, Caria, and Lybia. And it is also said, that once there * 1.259 were many Scorpions brought into India, into that part of the Countrey where the Rhicophagi dwell. By the way betwixt Susis in Persia and Media, there were wont to abound Scorpions under every stone and turf, for which cause, when the King of Persia was wont to go into Media, he gave commandement unto his people to scowr the way, by using all means to kill them, giving gifts to them that killed the greatest number of Scorpions. There is an ancient Town in Africk called Pes∣cara, * 1.260 wherein the abundance of Scorpions do so much harm, that they drive away the inhabitants all the Summer-time every yeer untill November following. And in like sort Diodorus declareth of many other places utterly forsaken to avoyd the multitude of Scorpions, as namely, one part of Arabia, and the Region of India about Arrbatan, or the river Estumenus, likewise neer the Cynamolgi in Aethiopia. There is also a City called Alabanda, standing betwixt two hills or mountains, like as a Chest turned inward, which Apollonius calleth Cistam inversam Scorpionibus plenam; a Chest turned in∣ward full of Scorpions. In an Island of Canaria also are many Scorpions, and those most pestilent, which the Turks gather as often as they may to make Oyl of Scorpions. In Italy, especially in the * 1.261 Mount Testaceus in Rome, are also Scorpions, although not so hurtfull as in Africa, and other places, and it is thought that Psylli, whose nature cureth all kinde of venemous Serpents harms, did only for lucres sake bring Serpents and Scorpions into Italy, and there left them, whereby they encrease to that number and multitude, which now we see them have. And thus much may suffice to have spoken of the Countreys of Scorpions.

The kindes of Scorpions I finde also to be many, but generally they may be referred unto twain, whereof one is called the Scorpion of the earth, and the other the Scorpion of the water or of the Sea, whose discourse or history is to be found among the fishes, for we in this place doe only write of the Scorpion of the earth, which is also called by Avicen a wilde Scorpion. Of this kinde there are many differences. First they differ in sex, for there are males and females, and the female is greater then the male, being also fat, having a grosser body, and a greater and sharper sting, but the male is more fierce then the female. Again, some of these have wings, and some are without wings, * 1.262 and some are in quantity greater then a Bean, as in Helvetia, neer Rapirsnill by Zurick. The Scorpi∣ons called Vinulae, are of a reddish colour, as it were Rose-water and Wine mixed together: and from thence it is probable that they took their name, and from their colour, the Authors have ob∣served seven severall kinndes.

The first is white, and the biting of this is not deadly.

The second is reddish, like fire flamant, and this when it hath wounded causeth thirst.

The third is of a pale colour, and therefore called by the Grecians, Zophorides, and these when they have wounded a man, cause him to live in continuall motion and agitation of his body, so as he cannot stand still, but remaineth distract and without wit, alway laughing, like a fool.

The fourth kinde is greenish, and therefore termed Chloros, which having wounded, causeth in∣tolerable trembling, shaking, and quivering, and cold, so that if the patient be laid in the hot sun, yet he thinketh that he freezeth like hayl, or rather feeleth hayl to fall upon him.

The fifth kinde is blackish pale, and it is called Empelios, it hath a great belly and broad, where∣of the poyson is great, and causeth after stinging and admirable heavinesse, and sorrowfull spirit. This kinde is called by Gesner, Ventricosum, because of the large belly, by the Arabians, Algetarat, and by Ponzettus, Geptaria. It eateth herbs, and the bodies of men, and yet remaineth insatiable, it hath a bunch on the back, and a tayl longer then other Scorpions.

The sixth is like a Crab, and this is called by Aelianus a flamant Scorpion, it is of a great body, and hath tongs and takers very solid and strong, like the Gramuel or Crevish, and is therefore thought to take the beginning from that Fish.

The seventh is called Mellichlorus, because of the Honey-colour thereof, or rather Waxe-colour, and the wings it hath on the back, are like the wings of a Locust.

Also Scorpions do differ among themselves in regard of their outward parts, for some of them have wings, as those in India, which are spoken of by Strabo, Nicander, and others, and therefore many times when they settle themselves to flie, they are transported by the winde from one Coun∣trey to another.

There is also another difference observed in their tayls, and in their stings, for some of them have six knots on their tayls, and some of them seven and those which have seven, are more hardy * 1.263 and fierce, but this falleth out very seldome that the Scorpions have seven knots in their tail, and therefore much seldomer to have nine, as writeth Apollodorus. For if any have seven, then is there likewise in them a double sting, for there is also another difference, some of them having a single, and some a double sting, yea, sometimes a treble one, and the sting of the male is more thick and strong then the sting of the female. * 1.264

And to conclude, there is also a difference in motion, for some of them hold up their tayls from the earth, and these are not much venomous, others again draw them along upon the earth, a little rowled together, and these are most deadly and poysonfull, some of them also flie from one Regi∣on to another, as we have shewed already.

Again, there is nothing that giveth a man a more lively difference, then the consideration of their poyson, for the Scorpions of Pharus, and that part of the Alpes neer Noricum, do never harm any living Creature, and therefore are they suffered to abound, so as they live under every stone. In like sort in the Isle Sanguola, the Scorpions are like unto those that are in Castilia or Spain for there the sting of the Scorpion doth not bring death, yet they cause a smarting pain, like the pain that cometh by the stinging of a Wasp, differing herein, that the Scorpions stinging is more lasting, and continueth songer then the stinging of a Wasp, for it tarrieth about a quarter of an hour, and by the biting thereof all are not pained alike, for some feel more, and some lesser pain. Contrary to these are the Scorpions of Pes••ara in Af••••k, who ever with their tails wound mortally, * 1.265 And those in Scythia, which are great, and hurtfull unto men and beasts, killing Swine, who do not much care for any other Serpent, especially the black Swine, who do also die the sooner, if they drink immediately after the wound received. The like may be said of the Scorpions of Egypt. And thus much for the different kindes of Scorpions, wherein nature produceth a notable variety, as may appear by all that hath been said. Now it followeth that we likewise make some relation of their congruity one with another.

They are all little living Creatures, not much differing in proportion from the great Scarabee or Horse-flie, except in the fashion of their tails. Their back is broad and flat, distinguished by certain knots or seams, such as may be seen in Sea. Crabs, yet their head differeth, and hath no re∣semblance with the Crab, because it is longer, and hangeth farre out from the body, the Counte∣nance whereof is fawning, and Virgin-like, and all the colour a bright brown. Notwithstanding the fair face, it beareth a sharp sting in the tail, which tail is full of knots, wherewithall it pricketh and hurteth that which it toucheth. And this Pliny affirmeth to be proper to this Insect, to have a sting in the tayl and to have arms: For by arms he meaneth the two crosse forks or tonges which come from it on both sides, in the tops whereof are little things like pinsons, to detain and hold fast, that which it apprehendeth, whiles is woundeth with the sting in the tayl.

It hath eight feet, four on the one side, and four on the other, from whence, as we have shewed already, it is called Octopos. For the feet and arms thereof is very much like unto the Sea-crab, and therefore may not unfitly be called either the mother or the daughter thereof. They have also tongues, wherewithall they use often to lick and smooth over their own bodies. And seeing of all other things they love fresh and clean linnen, whereinto they insinuate, and wrap themselves when they can come unto it, then also first of all they cleanse their whole bodies all over with their tongues, and next to their flesh put on this clean linnen, as a man would put on a shirt.

As we have said already it hath a tayl, wherein the sting thereof is placed, but what this sting is, divers Authors are of divers opinions concerning the same, some affirming it to be hollow, others denying it, finding in it no passage at all to contain or convey poyson. Aelianus again saith, that there must needs be in it a passage or cavity, although it be so small as by no means it can be perceived with the eyes of any mortall man, and in that sting is the poyson lesse visible, which when it striketh, disperseth it self instantly into the wound. But what should this poyson be? whether a substance or spirituall humour; surely a substance, which although it be mole minima, yet faculiate maxima, that is, of great power, although of small quantity. And therefore another Author (namely Gerardus) writeth hereof after this manner; Scorpius e centró quod cavum esse oreditur emittit humorem venenosum: That is to say, The Scorpion out of a hollow center, sendeth forth a venemous humour. And of this venom we will afterwards discourse more at large. Thus much in this place may serve to make known the severall parts and members of this Serpent.

Now then it followeth that we inquire about the manner of their breed or generation, which I find to be double, as divers Authors have observed, one way is by putrefaction, and the other by laying of egges, and both these wayes are consonant to nature, for Lacinius writeth, that some creatures

are generated only by propagation of seed, such are men, Vipers, Whales, and the Palm-tree, some again only by putrefaction, as the louse, flie, grasse, and such like imperfect things, and some both wayes, as Mice, Scorpions, Emmets, Spiders, Purslain, which first of all were produced by putrefacti∣on: and since their generation are conserved by the seed and egges of their own kinde. Now there∣fore we will first of all speak of the generation of Scorpions by putrefaction, and afterward by pro∣pagation.

Pliny saith, that when Sea-crabs dye, and their bodies are dryed upon the earth, when the Sun entreth into Cancer and Scorpius, out of the putrefaction thereof ariseth a Scorpion; and so out of the putrefied body of the Crevish burned, arise Scorpions, which caused Ovid thus to write;

Concava littoreo si demas brachia cancro, Caetera supponas terrae, de parte sepulta Scorpius exibit, caudaque minabitur unca.

And again;

Obrutus exemptis Cancer tellure lacertis, Scorpius exiguo tempore factus erit.

In English thus;

If that the arms you take from Sea-crab-fish, And put the rest in earth till all consumed be, Out of the buried part a Scorpion will arise, With hooked tayl doth threaten for to hurt thee.

And therefore it is reported by Aelianus, that about Estamenus in India, there are abundance of Scorpions generated, only by corrupt rain-water standing in that place. Also out of the Basilisk beaten into pieces and so putrefied, are Scorpions engendred. And when as one had planted the herb Basilica on a wall, in the room or place thereof he found two Scorpions. And some say that if * 1.266 a man chaw in his mouth fasting this herb Basill before he wash, and afterward lay the same abroad uncovered where no sun cometh at it for the space of seven nights, taking it in all the day time, he shall at length finde it transmuted into a Scorpion, with a tayl of seven knots.

Hollerius, to take away all scruple of this thing, writeth that in Italy in his dayes, there was a * 1.267 man that had a Scorpion bred in his brain, by continuall smelling to this herb Basill, and Gesner by relation of an Apothecary in France, writeth likewise a story of a young maid, who by smelling to Basill, fell into an exceeding head-ache, whereof she dyed without cure, and after her death being opened, there were found little Scorpions in her brain.

Aristotle remembreth an herb which he calleth Sissimbria, out of which putrefied Scorpions are engendred, as he writeth. And we have shewed already in the history of the Crocodile, that out of the Crocodiles egges do many times come Scorpions, which at their first egression do kill their * 1.268 Dam that hatched them, which caused Archelaus which wrote Epigrams of wonders unto Ptolemaeus, to sing of Scorpions in this manner;

In vos dissolvit morte, & redigit Croc••dilum Natura extinctum, Scorpii omnipotens.

Which may be Englished thus;

To you by Scorpions death the omnipotent Ruines the Crocodil in natures life extinct.

And thus much for the generation of Scorpions out of putrefaction. Now we will proceed to the second manner of their generation, which is by propagation of seed: for although Ponzettus make some question about their copulation, yet he himself inclineth to that opinion, as neerer un∣to truth, which attributeth carnall copulation unto them, and therefore he alledgeth the exam∣ple of flies, which admit copulation although they engender not thereby. Wherefore we will take it for granted, that Scorpions lay egges after copulation, which hapneth both in the Spring and Autumne.

And these are for the most part in number eleven, upon which they sit and hatch their young ones, and when once they are perfected within, those egges (which are in sight like the little worms out of which Spyders are engendred) then do they break their egges, and drive the young out. For as Isidorus writeth, otherwise the old should be destroyed of the young, even as are the * 1.269 Crocodiles. Some again say, that the old Scorpions do devour their young ones.

Being thus produced by generation, they live upon the earth, and those which are bred of the Sea-crab, do feed upon the foam of the Sea-water, and a continuall white mould or chalk neer the Sea. But the Scorpions of Aethiopia do eat all kinde of worms, flyes, and small Serpents. Yea those Serpents whose very dung being troden upon by man, bringeth exulcerations. And a tryall that Scorpions eat flies, was made by Wolphius at Montpelier, for having a young one in a boxe, for one whole moneth together it lived upon flies, and grew by the devouring of them bigger, being put in∣to the Glasse unto him.

They live among tiles and bricks very willingly, and for this cause they abound in Rome in the hill called Testaceus. They are also in Bononia found in the walls of old houses, betwixt the,

stones and the morter. They love also clean clothes, as we have said already, and yet they abhorre all places whereon the Sun shineth. And it seemeth that the Sun is utterly against their nature, for the same Scorpion which Wolphius had at Montpeller, lived in the Glasse untill one day he set it in the Sun, and then presently after it dyed.

To conclude, they love hollow places of the earth neer gutters, and sometimes they creep into mens beds, where unawares they do much harm: and for this cause the Lybians, who among other Nations are most of all troubled with Scorpions, do use to set their beds far from any wall, and very high also from the floor, to keep the Scorpions from ascending up into them. And yet fear∣ing all devises should be too little to secure them against this evil, they also set the feet of their beds ••n vessels of water, that so the Scorpion may not attempt so much as to climbe up unto them for fear of drowning. And also for their further safeguard, they were socks and hose in their beds so thick as the Scorpion cannot easily sting through them.

And if the bed be so placed that they cannot get any hold thereof beneath, then they climbe up to the sieling, or cover of the house, and if there they finde any hold for their pinching legs to apprehend and fasten upon, then in their hatred to man-kinde, they use this policy to come unto * 1.270 him. First one of them (as I have said) taketh hold upon that place in the house or sieling over the bed wherein they finde the man asleep, and so hangeth thereby, putting out and stretching his sting to hurt him, but finding it too short, and not being able to reach him, he suffereth another of his fellowes to come and hang as fast by him as he doth upon his hold, and so that second gi∣veth the wound: and if that second be not able likewise, because of the distance, to come at the man, then they both admit a third to hang upon them, and so a fourth upon the third, and a fifth upon the fourth, untill they have made themselves like a chain, to descend from the top to the bed wherein the man sleepeth, and the last striketh him: after which stroke he first of all runneth away by the back of his fellow, and every one again in order, till all of them have withdrawn themselves.

By this may be collected the crafty disposition of this Scorpion, and the great subtilty and ma∣lice that it is endued withall in nature, and seeing they can thus accord together in harming a man, it argueth their great mutuall love and concord one with another, wherefore I cannot but marvell at them who have written that the old ones destroy the young, all but one, which they set upon their own buttocks, that so the Dam may be secured from the sting and bitings of her son. For seeing they can thus hang upon one another, without harm, favouring their own kinde, I see no cause but that nature hath grafted much more love betwixt the old and the young ones, so as neither the old do first destroy the young, nor afterward; that young one preserved, in revenge of his fellowes quarrell, killeth his Parents.

It is reported by Aristotle, that there is a hill in Caria, wherein the Scorpions do never sting any strangers that lodge there, but only the naturall born people of that Countrey. And hereunto Pli∣ny and Aelianus seem to subscribe, when they write that Scorpiones extraneos leniter mordere, that is, Scorpions bite strangers but gently. And hereby it may be collected, that they are also by nature very sagacious, and can discern betwixt nature and nature; yea the particular differences in one and the same nature. To conclude, Scorpions have no power to hurt where there is no bloud.

The naturall amity and enmity they observe with other creatures commeth now to be handled, and I finde that it wanteth not adversaries, nor it again hath no defect of poyson or malice to make resistance and opposition, and to take vengeance on such as it meeteth withall. The prin∣cipall of all other subjects of their hatred, are Virgins and Women, whom they do not only de∣sire to harm, but also when they have harmed, are never perfectly recovered. And this is at all * 1.271 times of the day, but unto men they are most dangerous in the morning fasting, before they have vented their poyson, and this is to be observed, that their tayls are never unprovided of stings, and sufficient store of venome to hurt upon all occasions.

The Lyon is by the Scorpion put to flight wheresoever he seeth it, for he feareth it at the ene∣my of his life, and therefore writeth S. Ambrose, Exiguo Scorpionis aculeo exagitatur Leo, the Lion is much moved at the small sting of a Scorpion. Scorpions do also destroy other Serpents, and are likewise destroyed by them. There was one Cellarius a Physitian in Padua, who put together into one Viall, a Viper and a Scorpion, where they continually fought together, untill they had killed one another. The Swine of Scythia, which do safely eat all other kinde of Serpents and venemous beasts, without all harm, yet are destroyed by eating of Scorpions, and so great is the poyson of * 1.272 the Sibarite Scorpion, that the dung thereof being trode upon breedeth ulcers.

And as in this manner we see the virulence, and naturall evill of Scorpions against other living creatures, so now we are to consider the terrors of the Scorpion, for God in nature hath likewise ordained some bodies, whereby the Scorpion should be, and is driven away, scared and destroyed.

First of all therefore men, which are the chief, and head of all living Creatures, do by natural in∣stinct, kill and destroy Scorpions, and therefore Galen writeth thus, Let us (saith he) kill Scorpions, Spiders, and Vipers, not because they are evill in themselves, but because it is ingrafted in us by na∣ture, to love that which is good unto us, but to hate and avert from that which is evill unto us, Non corsiderantes genitum ne ita sit an secus, not considering whether it were so bred or not. As we have shewed their generation out of putrefaction to be by heat, so also is their destruction by heat, for they are not able to abide the heat of the Sun, and therefore, although they cannot live in cold Northern Countreys, but in the hotter, yet in the hotter they choose shadowes, holes of the earth, coverture of houses, and such like vile and obscure places, to succour and secure themselves in.

It is also reported, that if Scorpions do at any time behold a Stellion, they stand amazed and * 1.273 wonderfully astonished. The Viper also having killed a Scorpion, becometh more venemous, and the Ibis of Egypt destroyeth Scorpions. There are a little kinde of Emmets, called by the Ara∣bians, Gerarets, which are eaters of Scorpions. The quick-sighted Hawks also, from whose piercing eye no Serpent can be hid, when he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Scorpion, he neither feareth nor spareth it. It is also * 1.274 thought that Hares are never molested by Scorpions, because if a man or beast be anoynted with the rennet of a Hare, there is no Scorpion or Spider that will hurt him. Wilde Goats are also said to live without fear of Scorpions; even as the African Psylli of whom we have often spoken.

Now this vertue against Scorpions is not only in living things, but also in the Plants of the earth, and therefore Sestius writeth, that the seed of Nose-wort burned or scorched doth drive away Ser∣pents, and resist Scorpions and so doth the root of the Mast-tree, and the seed of Violets, and the same vertue is ascribed to the herb Lychius, which is Englished Calves-snout, and also to the seed of wilde Parsnip.

The smell of Garlick and wilde Mints set on fire, or strewed on the ground, and Dittany have the same operation: and above all other, one of these Scorpions burned, driveth away all his fel∣lowes * 1.275 which are within the smell thereof, and therefore this is a most usuall thing in Asia and Africk, to perfume their houses with Scorpions burned, and in stead thereof they make as it were little pills of Galbanum sandaracha, with butter, and the fat of Goats, and thereof altogether make their perfume: also Bettony, and wilde Pellitory with Brimstone. They use also to cover pans with cer∣tain things called by them. Alkitran and Asa, and with these they compasse the place wherein the * 1.276 Scorpion lodgeth, and then it is found that they can never stir any more from that place. And some in stead thereof, powr Oyl into their holes after them for the same effect. And the Hus∣band-men of Mauritania doe tye and fasten to their bed-side, sprigs of white thorn, and Hasell∣nuts, * 1.277 wherewithall by a secret antipathy in nature, they drive away and keep themselves safe in their beds from the annoyance of Scorpions.

By touching of Hen-bane they lie dead and overcome, but if one touch them again with white Ellebore, they revive, and are released from their former stupefaction. It is also said that the leaves of water-mallowes do also astonish Scorpions, and so also doth the Radish-root. The Sea-crab * 1.278 with Basil in her mouth destroyeth the Scorpion, and so doth Tunicle and Mushrom of trees. To conclude, the spittle of a man is death unto Scorpions; and therefore when a certain fellow took upon him to be a cunning Charmer, and by incantation to kill a Scorpion, he added to the words of his Charm a treble spitting in the mouth of the Serpent, and so it dyed: whereupon Welphius which was present, and saw this Charmer, did afterward by himself alone at home, make * 1.279 triall of spittle without a Charm; and so found that it alone killeth Scorpions, especially the spittle of a man fasting, or very thirsty. Moreover, there be certain Lands wherein no Scorpions will live, as that about Clispea in Africk, and the dust of the Island Gaulus neer Cercina, being sprinkled upon a * 1.280 Scorpion, doth incontinently kill it. And so much also writeth Hermolaus, of the Region Galatha.

These and such like things are observed by our painfull and industrious Ancestors about the nature of Scorpions, as well that which is hurtfull unto them, and they are afraid of, as those to which they are enemies in nature, and wound mortally when they light upon them. It is remembred by Textor that Orion was slain by a Scorpion, whereupon the Poets have made many tales. They say, that when he was grown to be a man he was a great hunter, and a continuall companion of Diana, who glorying much in his own strength, boasted that he was able to overcome any Serpent or other wild beast, whereat the Gods being angry, for revenge, and taking down the pride of this young man, caused the earth to bring forth a Scorpion, who killed Orion. Whereat Diana was very sorry, and therefore in lamentation of her champion, and for the good deeds he had done unto her, translated him into heaven, close by the constellation of the Bull. Lucan on the other side saith, that Diana sent this Scorpion to kill him, envying his famous success in hunting, and that afterward the Goddess taking pity on him, translated him into heaven. Others write again, that he had his eyes put out by Oenopion, and that he came blind into the Island Lemnos, where he received a horse of Vulcan, upon which he rode to the Sun-rising, in which journey, he recovered again his eye-sight, and so returning, he first determined to take re∣venge upon Oenopion for his former cruelty. Wherefore he came into Greet, and seeking Oenopion, could not finde him, because he was hid in the earth by his Citizens, but at last coming to him, there came a Scorpion and killed him for his malice, rescuing Oenopion. These and such like fables are there about the death of Orion, but all of them joyntly agree in this, that Orion was slain by a Scorpion. And so saith Anthologius was one Panopaeus a Hunter.

There is a common adage, Cornix Scorpium, a Raven to a Scorpion, and it is used against them that perish by their own inventions: when they set upon others, they meet with their matches, as a Raven did when it preyed upon a Scorpion, thus described by Alciatus, under his title Justa ultio, just revenge, saying as followeth.

Raptabat volucer captum pede corvus in auras Scorpion, audacipraemia parta gulae. Ast ille infuso sensim per membra veneno, Raptorem in stygias compulit ultor aquas. O risu res digna! aliis qui fata parabat, Ipse periit, propriis succubuitque dolis.

Which may be Englished thus;

The ravening Crow for prey a Scorpion took Within her foot, and therewithall aloft did flie, But he impoyson'd her by force and stinging stroke, So ravener in the Stygian Lake did die. O sportfull game! that he which other for bellyes sake did kill, By his own decreis should fall into deaths will.

There be some learned Writers, who have compared a Scorpion to an Epigram, or rather an Epigram to a Scorpion, because as the sting of the Scorpion lyeth in the tayl, so the force and * 1.281 vertue of an Epigram is in the conclusion, for vel acriter et salse mordeat; vel jucunde & dulciter delectes, that is, either let it bite sharply at the end, or else delight pleasingly. There be many wayes of bringing Scorpions out of their holes, and so to destroy and take them, as we have already touched in part, unto which I may adde these that follow: A perfume made of Oxe-dung, also Storax, and Arsenick. And Pliny writeth, that ten Water-crabs beaten with Basil is an excellent perfume for this purpose, and so is the ashes of Scorpions. And in Padua they use this art, with small sticks or straw they touch and make a noyse upon the stones and morter wherein they have their nests, * 1.282 then they thinking them to be some flies for their meat, instantly leap out, and so the man that deluded them is ready with a pair of tongs or o••••er instrument to lay hold upon them and take them, by which means they take many, and of them so taken, make Oyl of Scorpions. And Con∣stantius writeth, that if a mans hand be well anoynted with juice of Radish, he may take them without danger in his bare hand.

In the next place we are to proceed to the venom and poyson of Scorpions, the instrument or sting whereof, lyeth not only in the tail, but also in the teeth, for as Ponzettus writeth, Laedit scor∣pius morsu et ictu, the Scorpion harmeth both with teeth and tail, that is, although the greatest harm do come by the sting in the tayl, yet is there also some that cometh by their biting. This poyson of Scorpions, (as Pliny out of Apollodorus writeth) is white, and in the heat of the day is very fer∣vent and plentifull, so as at that time they are insatiably and unquenchably thirsty, for not only the wilde or wood Scorpion, but also all other are of a hot nature, and the symptomes of their bitings are such as follow the effects of hot poysons: and therefore saith Rasis, all their remedies are of a cold quality. Yet Galen thinketh otherwise, and that the poyson is cold, and the effects thereof are also cold. For which cause Rondeletus prescribeth Oyl of Scorpions to expell the stone, and also the cure of the poyson is by strong Garlick and the best Wine, which are hot things. And therefore I conclude, that although Scorpions be most hot, yet is their poyson of a cold nature.

In the next place, I think it is needfull to expresse the symptomes following the striking or sting∣ing of these venemous Scorpions, and they are (as Aetius writeth) the very same which follow the biting or poyson of that kinde of great Phalanx Spider, called also Teragnatum, and that is, they are in such case as those persons be which are smitten with the Falling sicknesse.

He which is stung by a Scorpion, thinketh that he is pressed with the fall of great and cold hayl, being so cold, as if he were continually in a cold sweat, and so in short space the poyson disperseth it self within the skin, and runneth all over the body, never ceasing untill it come to pos∣sesse some predominant or principall vitall part, and then followeth death. For as the skin is small and thin, so the sting pierceth to the bottom thereof, and so into the flesh, where it woundeth and corrupteth either some vein, or arterie or sinew, and so the member harmed swelleth immediate∣ly into an exceeding great bulk and quantity and aking, with insufferable torment. But yet (as we * 1.283 have already said) there is a difference of the pain, according to the difference of the Scorpion that stingeth. If a man be stung in the lower part of his body, instantly followeth the extension of his virile member, and the swelling thereof: but if in the upper part, then is the person affected with cold, and the place smitten is as if it were burned, his countenance or face distorted, glewish spots about the eyes, and the tears viscous and slimy, hardnesse of the articles, falling down of the fundament, and a continuall desire to egestion, foaming at the mouth, coughing, convulsions of the brain, and drawing the face backward, the hair stands upright, palenesse goeth over all the body, and a continuall pricking like the pricking of needles.

Also, Gordomus writeth, that if the prick fall upon an artery, there followeth swouning, but if on a nerve, there speedily followeth putrefaction and rottennesse. And those Scorpions which have wings, make wounds with a compasse like a bow, whose succeeding symptomes are both heat and cold, and if they hurt about the canicular dayes, their wounds are very seldome recovered.

The Indian Scorpions cause death three moneths after their wounds. But most wonderfull is that which Strabo relateth of the Albenian Scorpions and Spiders, whereof he saith are two kindes, and one kinde killeth by laughing, the other by weeping. And if any Scorpion hurt a vein in the head, it causeth death by madnesse, as writeth Paracelsus. When an Oxe or other beast is strucken with a Scorpion, his knees are drawn together, and he halteth, refusing meat; out of his nose flow∣eth a green humour, and when he is laid, he careth not for rising again.

These and such like are the symptomes that follow the bitings and stingings of Scorpions, for the cure whereof I will remit the Reader to that excellent discourse written by Wolphius, wherein are largely and learnedly expressed, whatsoever Art could collect out of nature. And seeing we in our Countrey are free from Scorpions, and therefore shall have no need to fear their poyson, it shall not I trust offend my Reader, if I cut off the relation of Scorpions cures, as a thing which cannot benefit either the English Reader, or else much adorn this History, and so I will proceed to the medicines drawn out of Scorpions.

The application or use of Scorpions in medicine, is either by powder or by Oyl, or by applying them bruised to their own wounds, wherefore every one of these are to be handled particularly; and first of all for the powder, it is made by ustion or burning in this manner. They take ten Scor∣pions and put them alive into a new earthen pot, whose mouth is to be dammed up with loam or such like stuffe, then must it be set upon a fire of Vine-tree-shreds, and therein must the pot

stand day and night untill all within it be consumed to powder, and you shall know by their white colour when they be enough; otherwise, if they be brown or burned, they must be continued longer, and the use of this powder is to expell the stone.

Again, they use to make this powder another way, they take twenty Scorpions, and put them in a little earthen pot with a narrow mouth, which mouth must be stopped, and then the pot put in∣to a Furnace by the space of six hours; which Furnace must also be kept close within, and with a gen∣tle fire: then after six hours take off the pot; and bruise the Scorpions into powder, and keep that powder for the use aforesaid. There are other wayes also to prepare this powder, but in all prepa∣rations the attendant and, assistant must take heed of the fume or smoak that cometh from it, for that is very venemous and contagious.

But besides, there are many things to be observed herein, as first, that the Scorpions be alive, and that they be killed in Oyl, then, that they be put in whole, with every member, without mutila∣tion, and that the Scorpions appointed for this confection, be of the strongest poyson, and the time of their collection to be when the Sun is in Leo, and not in Scorpias, as some without reason have imagined.

The Oyl so made, is distinguished into two kindes, one simple, and the other compound. The simple is made of a convenient number of Scorpions, (as it were twenty if they be great, and more if they be little) and they being put into a glasse vessel, Oyl of bitter-Almonds must be powred upon them, and so the vessel stopped close and set in the Sun by the space of thirty dayes, and then stirred and used. Yet the women of Ferrara use Oyl-olive in stead of Oyl of bitter Almonds, and al∣so * 1.284 observe no quantity of Oyl, but fill the pot full, and likewise no order in the number of the Scorpions, putting one to day and another to morrow, and so more the next week or moneth, as they can finde them.

The compound-oyl is thus made, they take round Astrologe, Cypresse, and Gentian, the roots of Capars, and upon these they pour Oyl of bitter Almonds, and soak the roots in the Oyl in the hot sun for the space of twenty dayes, then take they a complete number of Scorpions, from betwixt ten to fifteen, these they put again to the Oyl, and so stop up the mouth again, and set it the second time in the sun thirty dayes, and afterward strain it and use it. This compound-Oyl is not so much approved by Brasavolus, as the former simple, because the first hath more Scorpions, and the second is stuffed or seasoned with spices.

The green Scorpion which is bred of Basill, having seven knots in the tayl, being beaten and * 1.285 pounded with the herb Scorpion, and so made into pills, then dryed and put into a glasse, are very profitable to him that hath the Falling-sicknesse, if he take of them three every morning fasting in temperate Wine, but these being given to a sound man putteth him clean out of his wits. If a man take a vulgar Scorpion and drown the same in a porringer of Oyl in the wane of the Moon, and therewithall afterward anoynt the back from the shoulders to the hips, and also the head and forehead, with the tips of the fingers and toes of one that is a demoniack or a lunatick person, it is reported, that he shall ease and cure him in short time. And the like is reported of the Scor∣pions sting joyned with the top of Basil wherein is seed, and with the heart of a Swallow, all in∣cluded in a piece of Harts skin.

The Oyl of Scorpions made of common Oyl-olive, is good for the pain in the ears infused by distillation; also it cureth a Pleurisle in this manner. They take meal out of a Windmill, and make thereof with water, paste, or little cakes, in quantity like a French Crown, these must be sod in a * 1.286 frying-pan in Oyl of Scorpions, and so applyed as hot as can be to the place where the pricking is, and so kept to the same very hot, and when it beginneth to be cold, let new be applyed still, nine times together, successively one time after another. Scorpions bruised in new sweet Wine, doe cure the Kings-evil. The ashes of a Scorpion infused by the yard into the bladder, breaketh and disperseth both the stone of the bladder and the reyns. And the like operation hath a vulgar * 1.287 Scorpion eaten with vinegar and Rose-cakes applyed to the gowty members, it many times easeth the inflaming pains thereof.

The Oyl of Scorpions is very available in the time of Plague, both by Oyntment and also in po∣tion: wherewithall one did affirm to Wolphius that he gained a great summe of money, which he prepared in this manner. He took a hundred Scorpions, and sod them in the oldest Oyl-olive he could get, untill such time as the Scorpions were consumed, then did he strain them through a linnen cloth, adding unto it an ounce of Rubarb, and so shutting it close in a glasse bottle, he set it for∣ty dayes together in the sun, and afterward he gave of it to be used in time of infection, advising them that had it to apply it in oyntment to the pulse, heart, hinder part of the head, neck and nostrils. And if a man began to be sick, within twelve hours after the first sense of his pain, he was annnoynted herewith about the tumour, and then was it launced. This oyntment is also com∣mended against all manner of poyson; not onely of other Serpents and venemous beasts, but also of the Scorpion it self. And thus much for the history of the Scorpion.

Of the SCYTALL.

[illustration]

THis Serpent called by the Grecians Scytale, is likewise termed by the Latinists, Scytalis, and by some Scicalis, Picalis, Sciscetalis, and Seyseculus, and by Albertus, Situla, which we have already interpreted a Dipsas, but all of them are most manifestly corrupted from Scytale, the first Grecian word. And therefore I will not stand to confute them that call it also Caecilia, a blinde worm, be∣cause (after the manner of other Serpents) it eateth no Fennell, but this Caecilia or blinde Worm, we shall afterward demonstrate to be our English Slow-worm. This Scytall is very full of marks or spots upon the back, so variable and delectable, that it possesseth the beholders with admiration, and almost bringeth them asleep looking thereon: for it is also slow, and moveth softly, where∣fore it cannot pursue where it would do harm; in stead therefore of celerity, these naturall spots doe hold them that it doth desire to harm, like as they were stupefied and astonished. And in this bright∣nesse of the scales, first of all it must lay aside the winter-skin, or else there appeareth not any splen∣dour at all. And it is also said to be so hot and fervide, that it casteth skin in the Winter, according to this saying of Lucan;

Et Scytale sparsis etiam nunc sola pruinis Exuvias positurasuas.—

That is in English thus;

None but the Scytall while Winter-frosts abide, Out of his spotted skin and Seales doth glide.

The outward form or visible proportion of this Serpent, is like that which we have already called a Double-head, and the Latines, Amphisbena, except that the tayl hereof is flatter and thicker. The length of this Serpent is like the longest Worms of the earth, and the thickness like the helve or handle of a spade. And the greatest difference betwixt this and the Double-head, is that this goeth but one way, and the Double-head goeth as well one way as another: and the colour hereof is like the colour of the other. The generall description of this Serpent is thus expressed by Nieande••;

Bifronti similem reperis Scytalam Amphisbena Ptnguior est tamen, & cauda, quae nulla fere exit, Crassior, ut quantum solita est comprendere lignum, Curva manus strictum quoties tenet ipsa ligonem. Tam prolixa, vagans, pluvio quam reptile coelo, Quod foecunda genus suq gignit viscera tellus. Nec postquam ••uvenis venienti tempore veris, Magna Deum quando profert serpentia mater, Liquerit obscuram consueta cubila petram, Et nitidos tepido sub sole extriverit artus, Pandentis se foeniculi teneram exedit 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Sed per opaca morans imi declivia montis Se tenet, & multo graviter latet obruta somme, Eque alta sua conquirit sibi pabula terra: Nec licet id magno cupiat, studeatque labare Arescente sitim potis est depellere fa••es.

Which may be Englished thus;

The Scytall like the Double-head thou shalt in feature finde, Yet is it fatter, and tayl that hath no end much thicker is, As big as crooked hand is wonted for to winde The haft and helve of digging spade the earth that rifts. As long it is as that thin crawling worm which heavens rain Begets on fruitfull earth, when bowels warmly maystened are, And when the Mother-goddesse great sends forth her creoping train, Which is Yeers-youth, fresh time of Spring, both calm and fair. Then leaves it off his wonted bed in rock obscure, And in what sun he stretches out his limbs, and sinewer all, Eating the new sprung-blades of Fennell-herb, so putting teeth in ure, In holes of the declining hills so keeps both great and small, Where time in deepest sleep of buried nature it doth passe, And being hungry, the earth in top of hole it eats, Quenching the thirst by force of dryest chappes as grasse, Though without pain, desirelesse it seeks these drinks and meats.

The biting of this Serpent is like the biting of the Double-head, and therefore the cure is in the same manner, wherefore I shall not need to repeat the signs thereof, or the cure in this place. And so I will conclude the story of this Serpent.

Of the SEA-SERPENTS.

AMong the manifold kinds of Sea-serpents, as well known as unknown, (whereof some are like the Lamprey, some like the Myrus, and many other like the Serpents of the earth, except in their head, as Aristotle writeth, for that is more like the head of a Conger then a Serpent) it pe∣culiarly hath one kinde, in colour and form not unlike an Eel, in length about three cubits, in the gills and sinnes resembling a Conger, but it hath a longer snout or beak, which is also fortified inwardly with very many small sharp teeth, the eyes not so great, a smooth or pield skin, and hanging over at the back, having no scales, so as it may easily be fleyed. The belly of it is betwixt red and white, and all the body over is set with spires, so as being alive it is not handled without danger. And this is by Pliny called the Dragon of the Sea, which cometh out of the Sea into the sands, and therein with an admirable celerity and dexterity maketh his lodging place. For the snout thereof is sharper then the Serpents of the earth, therefore therewith it diggeth and hideth it self in the hole or hollow place which it hath made. This is also called by Pliny Ophidion, but I think it better to follow Aristotle, who doth call it Ophis thalattios, a Sea-serpent, the colour whereof is blacker or dimmer then the Conger.

There be also Vipers of the Sea, which are in shew little fishes, about a cubit long, having a lit∣tle horn in their forehead, the biting or sting whereof is very deadly, and therefore when the Fisher-men have taken any one of these, they instantly cut off the head and bury it in the sand, but the body they eat for good meat: yet these Serpents are thought to be none other then the Fishes called Arauci, or Spider-fishes, saving that they are said to have a sharp sting in their head, & this a horn, for all Water or Sea-serpents have harder and less heads then the Serpents of the land.

In the Germane, Ocean there is found a Serpent about the bignesse of a mans leg, which in the tayl carryeth a sting as hard as any horn, this haunteth only the deepest part of the Sea, yet is it sometime taken by the Fisher-men, and then they cut off the tail, and eat the residue of the body. Yet I will not expresly define whether this may be called a Sea-Serpent, or a Serpentine-fish; it may be it is the same that is a Fork-fish, or Ray, which by reason of the tayl thereof, it might give occasion to Albertus to call it a Serpent of the Sea.

There be also Snakes or Hyders in the Sea, for although all Water-serpents, as well of the fresh, salt, and sweet waters may be called Hyders, or Snakes, yet there be some peculiar Snakes, such * 1.288 are those in the Indian Sea, where they have broad tayls, and they harm more by biting with the sharpnesse of their teeth, then by any venom that is contained in them; and therefore in this they somewhat resemble the Snakes of the earth. And Pliny writeth, that once before Persis, upon the coasts of certain Islands, there were seen of these Sea-hyders very many, of the length of twenty * 1.289 cubits, wherewithall a whole Navy or fleet of ships were mightily affrighted. And the like is re∣ported of three other Islands, lying betwixt the promontory of Carmania and Arabia; and such were those also in the African Sea, who are said by Aristotle not to be afraid of a Gally, but will set upon the men therein, and over-turn it. And he himself saw many bones of great wilde Oxen, who had been destroyed by these kinde of Sea-snakes or Hyders.

The greatest River that falleth into the red Sea, is called Sinthus, the fall whereof afar off, seem∣eth to the beholders to be like winding Snakes, as though they were coming against the passengers, to stay them from entrance into that Land; and there is not only a sight or resemblance of Ser∣pents there, but also the very truth of them, for all the Sea-men know when they are upon these coasts, by the multitude of Serpents that meet them. And so do the Serpents called Graae about Persis. And the Coast of Barace hath the same noysome premonstration, by occurrence of many odi∣ous, black, and very great Sea-serpents. But about Barygaza they are lesse, and of yellow earthy colour; their eyes bloody, or fiery red, and their heads like Dragons. Keranides writeth of a Sea-Dragon, in this manner, saying: The Dragon of the Sea is a fish without scales, and when this is grown to a great and large proportion, whereby it doth great harm to other creatures, the winds or clouds take him up suddenly into the air, and there by violent agitation, shake his body to pieces: the parcels whereof so mangled & torn asunder, have been often found in the tops of the Mountains. And if this be true (as it may well be) I cannot tell whether there be in the world a more noble part of Divine providence, and sign of the love of God to his creatures, who armeth the clouds of hea∣ven to take vengeance of their destroyers. The tongue of this Sea-Dragon (saith he) is like a Horses tayl, two foot in length; the which tongue preserved in Oyl, and carried about by a man, safeguardeth him from languishing infirmities, and the fat thereof, with the herb Dragon annoynt∣ed on the head or sick parts, cureth the head-ache, and driveth away the Leprosie, and all kinde of scabs in the skin.

Here is also the picture of another Sea-serpent, very like to the Serpent of the earth, being three or four cubits long, having a rounder belly then an Eel, but a head like a Conger, and the upper chap is longer, and standeth out further then the nether chap; the teeth grow therein as they do in Lam∣preys, * 1.290 but they are not so thick, and it hath two small finnes neer the gills like an Eel. The colour of it is yellow, but the beak and belly is of Ash-colour, the eyes yellow, and in all the inward parts it doth not differ from a Lamprey, and there is no man of any understanding, (as writeth Ronde∣letius) but at the very first sight, will judge the same to be a Serpent although the flesh thereof

[illustration]

be no more harmfull then the Conger or Lamprey; yet for similitude with other Serpents, I could not chuse but expresse the same in this place,

[illustration]

There be also in the Swevian Ocean or Balthick sea, Serpents of thirty or forty foot in length, whose picture is thus described, as it was taken by Olaus Magnus, and he further writeth, that these do never harm any man untill they be provoked.

[illustration]

The same Author also expresseth likewise the figure of another Serpent, of a hundred and twen∣ty foot long, appearing now and then upon the coasts of Norway, very dangerous and hurtfull to the Sea-men in calms and still weather, for they lift up themselves above the hatches, and sudden∣ly catch a man in their mouths, and so draw him into the Sea out of the Ship: and many times they overthrow in the waters a laden Vessel of great quantity, with all the wares therein contained. And sometimes also they set up such a spire above the water, that a Boat or little Bark without sayls may passe through the same. And thus much for the Sea-serpents.

[illustration]

Of the SEPS or SEPEDON.

ALthough I am not ignorant that there be some which make two kindes of these Serpents, be∣cause of the two names rehearsed in the title, yet when they have laboured to describe them severally, they can bring nothing or very little wherein their story doth not agree, so as to make twain of them, or to handle them asunder, were but to take occasion to tautologize, or to speak one thing twice. Wherefore Gesner wisely pondering both parts, and after him Carronus, deliver their opinions, that both these names do shew but one Serpent, yet according to their manner, they ex∣presse them as if they were two. For all their writings do but minister occasion to the Readers to collect the truth out of their labours, wherefore I will follow their opinion, and not their exam∣ple. Sepedon and Seps cometh of Sepein, because it rotteth the body that it biteth: in colour it neerly resembleth the Haemorrhe, yet it usually goeth by spires and half-hoops, for which cause as it goeth, the quantity cannot be well discerned, the pace of it being much swifter then the Hae∣morrhe. The wound that it giveth is smarting, entring deep and bringing putrefaction, for by an inexplicable celerity, the poyson passeth over all the body, the hair rotteth and falleth from all parts, darknesse and dimnesse is in the eyes, and spots upon the body, like as if a man had been burned in the Sun. And this Serpent is thus described unto us by Nicander;

Jam quae Sepedonis species sit, qualeque corpus Accipe: diversa tractum ratione figurat. Quin etiam mutilae nulla insunt cornua fronti, Et color, hirsuti qualem est spectare tapetis, Grande caput, brevior dum currit, cauda videtur: Quam tamen obliquo majorem tramite ducit. Quod fit ab hoc vulnus, magnos nocuosque dolores Excitat, interimens quia fundit & ipse ve〈…〉〈…〉, Quo sata marcentes tabes dep••soitur artus, Indeque siccata resolutus pelle capillus Spargitur, & volitans candentis pappus achantae, Praeterea foedum turpi vitiligine corpus, Et veluti urenti maculas a sole videre est.

Which may be Englished thus;

Sepedons shape now take, and what his form of body is, It doth not go as Haemorrhe doth, but traileth diversly. His powled head of Haemorrhs horns full happily doth misse, And colours are as manifold as works of Tapestry: Great is his head, but running seems the tail but small, Which winding, it in greater path draws after to and fro, But where it wounds, by pains and torments great it doth appall, Killing the wounded, infusing poyson so, Whereby consumed are the lean and slender sinews, And dryed skin lets hair fall off apace, Like as the windes drive whites from top of thistle Cardus, Besides the body filth, as with Sun parched, looseth grace.

Thus doth Nicander describe the Sepedon: now also we will likewise relate that which another Poet saith of the Seps, that both compared together, may appear but one, therefore thus writeth Lucan, upon occasion of one Sabellus wounded by this Serpent.

—Miserique in crure Sabelli Seps stetit exiguus, quem flexo dente tenacem Auu••sitque manu, piloque affixit arenis. Parva modò Serpens, sed qua non ulla cruenvae Tantum mortis habet: nam plagae proxima circum Fugit rapta cutis, pallentiaque ossa retexit. Jamquae sinu laxo nudum est sine corpore vulnus: Membra natant sanie, surae fluxere, sine ullo Tegmine poples erat: femorum quo{que} musculus omnis Liquitur: & nigra distillant inguina tabe. Dissiluit stringens uterum membrana, fluuntque Viscera, nec quantum toto de corpore d••bet, Effluit in terras saevum, sed membra venenum Decoquit: in minimum mors contrahit omnia virus. Vincula nervorum, & laterum textura, cavumque Pectus, & abstrusum fibris vitalibus omne, Quicquid hum•• est, aperit pestis: natura profana Morte patet: manant humeri, fortes{que} lacerti: Colla caput{que} fluunt, callido non ocyus Austro Nix resoluta cadit, nec solem cera sequetur. Parva loquor, corpus sanie stillasse perustum: Hoc & flamma potest, sed quis rogus abstulit ossa, Haec quoque discedunt, putres{que} secuta medullas Nulla manere sinunt rapidi vestigia fati. Cyniphias inter pestes tibi palma nocendi est: Eriplunt omnes animam, tu sola cadaver. Mole brevis seps, peste ingens, nec viscera solum, Sed simul ossa vorans tabificus Seps.

Which is to be Englished thus;

On wretched Sabels leg a little Seps hung fast, Which with his hand from hold of teeth he pluck: away From wounded place, and on a pile the Serpent all agast He staked in sands, to him O woful wretched day, To kill this Serpent is but small, yet none more power hath, For after wound falls off the skin, and bones appear full bare, As in an open bosome, the heart whole body gnaweth, Then all his members swam in filth: corruption did prepare To make his snaks fall off, uncovered were knee-bones, And every muscle of his thigh resolved, no more did hold, His secrets black to look upon, distilled all Consumptions, The rim of belly brake out fierce, which bowels did infold, Out fell his guts on earth, and all that corps contain, The raging venom still heating members all, So death contracted all by little poysons main, Ʋnloosing nerves, and making sides on ground to fall: This plague the hollow breast and every vital part Abstrused, where the fibres keep the life in ure, Did open unto death: The life, the lungs, the heart. O death profane, and enemy unto nature. Out flow the shoulders great, and arm-blades strong, Both neck and head gush out in matter, all doth run. No snow doth melt so soon the Southern blast among, Nor wax so fast dissolve by heat of shining Sun. These things which now I speak I do account but small, That corps should run with filthy core, may caused be by flame〈…〉〈…〉

Yet bones are spared in fire, here all away they fall, Of them and marrow sweet, fate lets no sign remain. Among the Cyniph plagues, this still shall bear the bell, The soul they take, this soul and carkasse both, The Seps, though short it be, in force it is a hell, Devouring bones, the body all undoth.

Thus you hear that more largely expressed by Lucan of the Seps, which was more briefly touch∣ed by Nicander of the Sepedon, and all cometh to one end, that both kill by putrefaction. The length of this Serpent is about two cubits, being thick toward the head, but thin and slender toward the tail. The head thereof is broad, and the mouth sharp, it is of many colours, so as some have thought that it could change colour like a Chamaeleon. The four under teeth are hollow, and in them lyeth the poyson, which are covered over with a little skin.

Pausanias affirmeth that he himself saw one of them, and that Egyptus the son of Elatus, a King of Arcadia was slain by one of these. They live in Rocks, in hollow places of the Valleys, and under stones, and they fear no Winter, acording to this verse of Pictorius.

Hic hyemis calidus frigora nulla timet.

Which may be Englished thus;

Of Winters cold it hath no fear, For warm it is throughout the year.

First of all after the wound appeareth some bloud, but that symptom lasteth not long, for by and by followeth matter smelling very strong, swelling tumor, and languishing pain, and all the parts of the body affected herewith become white, and when the hair falleth off, the patient seldom liveth above three or four days after. The cure hereof is by the same means that the poyson of the Viper, the Ammodyte and Horned-serpent is cured withal. And particularly Aetius prescribeth a spunge * 1.291 wet in warm Vinegar to be applyed to the wound, or else to lay the ashes of chaffe with the earth upon which they are burned, to the place, and to anoint it with Butter and Honey, or else lay unto it Millet and Honey, likewise Bay-sprigs, Oxymel, Purslain, and in their dyet salt fish.

Aristotle writeth of a little Serpent, which by some are called a sacred and holy Serpent, and he saith that all other Serpents do avoid it, and flie from it, because what soever is bitten by it, present∣ly rotteth. It is in length (as he saith) a cubit, and it is rough all over, and therefore I take this Ser∣pent to be a kinde of Sepedon. Also Aristoxenus saith, that he knew a man by touching this Serpent to die, and afterward that the garment which he wore at the time of the touching of the Serpent, did likewise rot away. And thus much for the Seps and Sepedon.

of the SLOW-WORM.

[illustration]

THis Serpent was called in an∣cient time among the Grecians Tythlops and Typhlynes, and Cophia, because of the dimnesse of the sight thereof, and the deafnesse of the ears and hearing, and vulgarly at this day it is called in Greece, Tephloti, Tefliti, and Te∣phlini, and from hence the Latines have taken their word, Caecilia, que: caecus Serpens, a blinde Serpent, and it is also called Cerula, Caecula, and Coriella, as witnesseth Alber∣tus, because the eyes thereof are none at all, or very small. The Italians call it Bisaorbala; and the Florentines, Lucignola; the Germans, * 1.292 Blyndensclycher; the Helvetians, Envieux, al' annoilx, and the people of Narbon, Nadels.

It being most evident that it receiveth name from the blindenesse and deafnesse thereof, for I have often proved, that it neither heareth nor seeth here in England, or at the most it seeth no better then a Mole. The teeth are fastned in the mouth, like the teeth of a Chamaeleon, the skin is very thick, and therefore when the skin is broken by a hard blow, the whole body doth also break and park asunder. The colour is a pale blew, or sky-colour, with some blackish spots, intermixed at the sides. There is some question whether it hath one or two rims on the belly, for seeing they conceive their young ones in their womb, they have such a belly by nature, as may be distended and stretched out accordingly as the young ones grow in their womb. It hath a smooth skin without all scales. The neather eye-lid covereth all the eye it hath, which is very small: about the head they are more light coloured, then about the other parts of the body: The tongue is cloven, and the top thereof very black. They are in length about a span, and as thick as a mans finger, except toward the tail

which is more slender, and the female is more black then the male. The passage or place of excre∣ments or conception is transverse. If they be killed with the young in their belly, the little ones will instantly creep out at their dams mouth, and sometimes (as witnesseth Bellonius) in this little Ser∣pent are found forty little young ones. They are in Greece and England, and come not abroad till July, and they go into the earth in August, and so abide abroad all harvest, and they love to hide themselves in Corn-fields under the ripe corn when it is cut down. It is harmlesse except being pro∣voked, yet many times when an Ox or a Cow lyeth down in the pasture, if it chance to lie upon one of these Slow-worms, it biteth the Beast, and if remedy be not had, there followeth mortality or death, for the poyson thereof is very strong. If it swell, it is good to prick the place with a brazen bodkin, and then apply unto it Fullers-earth and Vinegar. There is a Triacle made of the * 1.293 Slow-worm, which smelleth like Aqua-vitae; with this some men are cured of the Plague. And thus much of this little Serpent.

Of the SNAKE.

THere is no reasonable learned man that maketh question, that Anguis in Latine is a general word for all kinde of Snakes and Serpents, and therefore when Virgil writeth of the fury Alecto, how she cast a Snake into the bosome of Amata, he first of all calleth it Anguis, a Snake, and presently after Coluber & Vipera, a Serpent, as appeareth by these verses following. Aeneid. 7.

Huic dea coeruleis unum de crinibus anguem Conjicit, in{que} sinum praecordia adintima subdit: Vipeream inspirans animam, fit tortile collo Aurum ingens Coluber.—

Which may be Englished thus;

To her the Goddesse a Snake made of the Gorgons hair, Which to the bottom of her breast and entrails made to slide, Inspiring to her a Vipers soul though she were fair, For chain of gold an Adder bout her neck did glide.

And this is the lesse to be admired or doubted, ••eeing the very word Anguis seemeth to be derived of Angulosus, winding or turning, for every kinde of Serpent may be folded or winded up together almost in every fashion. Yet sometimes, as the Graecians use Ophis for one kinde, as Haemorrbe or Hor for Asp, so also is the word Anguis used for one kinde, which we call a Snake, that is, a little Serpent li∣ving both in the water and on the earth. Howbeit, as we shall shew afterward, when it is in the wa∣ter it is cailed Hydrus and Na: rix, and when it is on the land, it is called Chersydrus.

Among the ancient Pagans, Snakes were accounted the gods of the Woods, and this caused Per∣sius to write this verse following;

Pingite duos angues, pueri, sacer est locus.

That is, Oye children, draw the figure of two Snakes, for this place, (meaning the grove of Wood) is a holy place, and sacred to the Gods. And in like sort, the Snake in ancient time was sa∣cred to Aesculapius, because it was thought to be without venom, and to contain in it many excellent medicines or remedies against other evills, and also a kinde of divine power or help to drive away ca∣lamities, whereof I remember that I have read this story in Valerius Maximus.

Rome (saith he) our City was for three years together continually vexed with Pestilence, so as neither the mercy of God could be obtained for the release of this evil, nor all wit, power, or in∣dustry of man put an end unto it. At last by the care and travail of the Priests, it was found in the writing and Books of Sibyll, that unlesse they could obtain of the Epidaurians the holy Snake of Aescu∣lapius, there should be no end of that pestilence.

For which cause there were Ambassadours sent to the City of Epidaurus, to entreat at the hands of the Citizens and Priests, that holy Beast or Snake (as was prophanely supposed) and they attained the end of their journey, for the Epidaurians did kindely entreat them, and sent the Snake of Aesculapius, and then (saith he) Tam promptam Epidauriorum indulgentiam numen ipsius Dei subsecutum, verba mortalium coelesti absequi•• comprobavit: That is, The very grace and power of God seconded that favourable indulgence of the Epidaurians, and with an heavenly obsequiousnesse allowed and per∣formed the words and writings of mortal creatures, (meaning the Sibyls writings aforesaid) For that Snake (which the Epidaurians never see but they worship, with as great reverence as they would Aesculapius himself; for it never appeareth but for their exceeding great good and commodity) be∣gan to slide about the broadest streets and noblest part of the City, gently looking upon every body, and licking the earth, and so continued three days, to the religious admiration of all the beholders, bearing an undoubted aspect and alacrity, for the obtaining and aspiring a more beautiful habitati∣on: so at last it came to the Isle neer Rome, called Triremis, whereinto in the sight of all the Mari∣ners it did ascend and enter, and lodged it self round in that place, where standeth the house of Quin∣tus Ogulimus: which story is thus most excellently followed by Ovid in his Metamorphos.

The folk of Rome came hither all by heaps, both men and wives, And eke the Nuns that keep the fire of V esta as their lives To meet the God, and welcome him with joyful noise: and as The galley rowed up the stream, great store of incense was On altars burnt on both the banks, so that on either side, The fuming of the Frankincense, the very air did hide, And also slain in Sacrifice full many catteldyed. Anon ••e came to Ro••ie, the head of all the world: and there The Serpent lifting up himself began his head to bear Right up along the mast, upon the top whereof on hie, He looked round a••out a meet abiding place to spie: The Tyber doth divide it self in twain, and doth embrace A little Isle Triremis, for so the people tearm the place, From either side whereof, the banks are distant equal space: Apollo's Snake descending from the mast, conveyed him thither, And taking off his heavenly shape, as one repairing hither, To bring our City healthfulnesse, did end our sorrows quite.

Thus saith Ovid: But the truth is, that the Poet did but faign this thing for the excitation and stir∣ring up of the mindes of men to Religion and religious worship of the Heathen Gods; and there∣fore this Snake of Epidaurus was but a fiction, and therefore in the beginning of the History he maketh it to be Aesculapius in the likenesse of a Snake, for in a vision he sheweth how that Aesculapius appeared to the Roman Ambassador, and told him that he would appear in that form, saying;

Pone metus, veniam, simulachra{que} nostra relinquam, Hunc modo Serpentem, baculum{que} neribus ambit, Perspice & us{que} nota, visum ut cognoscere possis; Vertar in hunc, sed major ero, tantus{que} videbor, In quantum verti coelestid corpora possunt.

Which may be Englished thus;

Fear not, for I will come and leave my shrine. This Serpent which doth wreath with knots about this staffe of mine, Mark well and take good heed thereof, for into it tranformed will I be, But big too I will be, for I will seem of such a size, As wherein may celestial bodies turn suffice.

But all Poets are so addicted to faigning, that I my self may also seem while I imitate them, to set down fables for truth: and if ever there were such a Snake as this, it was Diabolical, and therefore in nature nothing to be concluded from it, and in that place of Rome called Biremis and Triremis, was Aesculapius worshipped. And at this day in the Gardens called S. Bartholomews-Gardens, there is a Mar∣bleship, on the side whereof is the figure of a creeping Snake, for the memory of this fact, as writeth Gyraldus.

But in the Emblems and documents of the ancient heathen, it is certain that Aesculapius, and the Snake and the Dragon, did signifie health, and from hence it came to have the name of the Holy∣snake, and also to be accounted full of medicine. The true occasion in nature, was for that about * 1.294 the Countries of Bortonia and Padua, they have a Snake which they call Bisse, and Bisse-angua sanca, and about Padua, Autza, which they say is harmlesse. And as well children as men, do often take up the same into their hands, with no more fear and dread then they would do a Coney, or any other tame and meek creature.

By the relation of Pellinus, it is in length five spans and five fingers, the head also compared with the body, is long, and in the neck thereof are two blanches, and betwixt them a hollow place, the back part whereof is attenuated into a thin and sharp tail, and upon either chap they have many teeth, which are sharp, and without poyson; for when they bite, they do no more harm then fetch bloud only, and these men for oftentation fake wear about their necks; and women are much terri∣fied by them in the hands of wanton young boys. The back of this Snake, (as writeth Erastus) is blackish, and the other parts green, like unto Leeks, yet mixed with some whitenesse, for by reason it seedeth upon herb, it beareth that colour. They are also carryed in mens bosoms, and with them they will make knots. For the same Erastus affirmeth, that he saw a Fryer knit one of them up toge∣ther like a garter, but when he pulled it harder then the Snake could bear, it turned the head about and bit him by the hand, so as the bloud followed, yet there came no more harm, for it was cured without any medicine, and therefore is not venomous.

In the Mountain of Maur〈…〉〈…〉ia called Ziz, the Snakes are so familiar with men, that they wait up∣on * 1.295 them at dinner time like Cats and little Dogs, and they never offer any harm to any living thing, except they be first of all provoked. Among the Bygerons inhabiting the Pyrenes, there be Snakes four foot long, and as thick as a mans arm, whith likewise live continually in the houses, and not only come peaceably to their table, but also sleep in their beds without any harm, in the night-time

they hisse, but seldom in the day time, and pick up the crums which fall from their tables.

Among the Northern people they have household Snakes, as it were houshold Gods, and they suffer them both to eat and to play with their Infants, lodging them in the Cradles with them, as * 1.296 if they were faithful Keepers about them, and if they harm any body at any time, they account it Pium piaculum, a very divine and happy mischance. But after they had received the Christian faith, they put away all these superstitions, and did no more foster the Serpents brood, in detestation of the Devil, who beguiled our first Parents in the similitude of a Serpent. Yet if it happen at any time that a house be burned, all the Snakes hide themselves in their holes in the earth, and there in short space they so encrease, that when the people come to re-edifie, they can very hardly displant their number. Plautus in his Amphitryo, maketh mention of two named Snakes, which descended from the clowds in a shower; but this opinion grew from the fiction of the Epidaurian Snake, which only by the Poets is described with a mane and a combe, and therefore I will not expresse the Snakes to have a mane.

There is no cause why we should think all Snakes to be without poyson, for the Poet hath not warned us in vain, where he saith;

Frigidus, ô pueri fugite hinc, latet Anguis sub herba:

Which may be Englished thus;

Fly hence you boys as far as feet can bear, Ʋnder this herb a Snake full cold doth lear.

For this cause we will leave the discourse of the harmlesse Snake, and come to those which are no way inferior to any other Serpent, their quantity and spirit being considered, wherefore we are to consider, that of Snakes which are venomous and hurtful, there are two kindes, one called the Water-snake, the other the Land-snake. The Water-snake is called in Greek, Hydra, Hydros, Hy∣drales, Karouros, and Enhydris, in Latine, Natrix, and Lutrix. Munster calleth it in Hebrew, Zepha, and Avicen relateth certain barbarous names of it, as Handrius, Andrius, and Abides, and Kedasuderus, Echydrus, and Aspistichon. The Germans call it Nater, Wasser-nater, and Wasser-schlange: and they de∣scribe it in the manner as it is found in their Countrey, which doth not very far differ from them of our Countrey here in England. It is (as they say) in thicknesse like the arm of a man or childe, the belly thereof yellow, and of a golden colour, and the back blackish-green, and the very breath of it is so venomous, that if a man hold to it a rod newly cut off from the tree, it will so in∣fect it, that upon it shall appear certain little bags of gall or poyson. And the like effect it work∣eth upon a bright naked sword, if it do but touch it with the tongue; for the poyson runneth from one end to the other, as if it were quick, and leaveth behinde a line or scorched path, as if it had been burned in the fire.

And if this Serpent fortune to bite a man in the foot, then is the poyson presently dispersed all over the body, for it hath a fiery quality, and therefore it continually ascendeth, but when once it com∣eth to the heart, the man falleth down & dyeth. And therefore the meetest cure is to hang the party so wounded up by the heels, or else speedily to cut off the member that is bitten. And that which is here said of the Water-snake, doth also as properly belong the Land-snake, seeing there is no dif∣ference betwixt these, but that at certain times of the year they forsake the water when it draweth or falleth low, and so betake themselves to the land.

They live in the water and in the earth, (but they lay their egges on the land in hedges or in dung-hils) and especially in those waters which are most corrupt, as in pools where there is store of Frogs, Leaches, and Newts, and but few fishes, as in the Lakes about Puteoli, and Naples, and in England all over the Fens, as Ramsey, Holland, Ely, and other such like places, and when they swim they bear their breast above the water. They abound also in Corcyra, and about Taracina in Italy, and in the Lake Ny∣clea, and especially in Galabria, as the Poet writeth:

Est etiam ille malus Calabris in saltibus Anguis, Squanimea convolvens sublato pectore terga, Atque notis longam maculosus grandibus alvum, Qui dum amnes ulli rumpuntur fontibus, & dum Vere madent udo terrae ac pluvialibus austris, Stagna colit, ripisque habitans hicpiscibus atram Improbus ingluviem, ranisque loquacibus explet. Postquam exhausta palus terraeque ardore debiscu••, Exilit in siccum & flammantia lumina torquens Saevit agris, asperque siti, atque exterritus 〈◊〉〈◊〉

Which may be thus Englished;

That evil Snake in the Calabrian coasts abides, Rowling his scaly back by holding up the breast, And with great spots upon large belly glides, When as the Rivers streams in Fountains all are ceast. For whiles the moistened Spring with rain from South wind falls, It haunts the Pools, and in the water all black it feeds, In ravening wise both Fish and Frogs do fill his gall, For why, when Summers drought enforce, then must it needs Fly to dry land, rowling his flaming eye; Rage in the fields to quench his thirst full dry.

There be some Writers that affirm, that there is a certain stone in a Water-Snakes head, which it easteth or vomiteth up when the skin thereof is fleyed from the body, and after it is so cast up, it must be received into a piece of silk, the vertue whereof is to be proved after this manner; Fill a brasse Caldron or Kettle full of water, and about the same vessel so filled, binde this stone fast, as it were to the handle or bayl thereof, and you shall finde that every day this stone so remaineth bound to the Kettle, that the water will decrease eighteen ounces. And this Kiranides affirmeth that he bound to a woman that had the Dropsie, and she was thereby delivered from her disease; for every day he found that her belly did fall the quantity of four fingers, until it came to the natural bignesse, and then he took it off, for he saith, that if he had not then taken it off, it would also have dryed up the native humidity.

In like sort, the vertue of this stone is applyed against the rheume in the legs, or any flux of the eyes, ears or head, but the use of it must not exceed the quantity of three hours at a time. It also driveth out of the body all venomous Worms, and is a special remedy against their biting and sting∣ing. This stone is also called Serpentinus and Draconites, but it is questionable whether it be generated in the head of the Snake, or by their vaporous breath, concurring together in the Spring or Winter season. Some of these stones are said to be of a blewish green colour, and the form thereof pyrami∣dal: Albertus saith, he hath seen one of them that was black, and not lightsome, only about the edges of it there was some palenesse apparent, and in the superficies or upper part thereof, there was (as he writeth) a beautiful picture of a Snakes proportion, and the vertue thereof did put to flight venom∣ous Beasts, and also cure their harmful poysons.

Such like things we have already shewed to be in the stone which the Toad is said to have, but this stone is more likely to be the Ophites, for in the Castle of Tangra, once the seat or habitation of Charles the fourth, there is a Chappel wherein are many precious stones, wrought in the walls and doors, and among divers other these Ophites. But whereas there is a pyramidal form attributed to these stones, I take it therefore that it is the same which Pliny calleth Glossapetra, for in shew it resem∣bleth the tongue of a Snake, and the tongue of a Snake being great or broad at the root, and smaller toward the end or tip thereof, is rightly said to be of a pyramidal form: and among the Germans it is called by a peculiar word, Naterzungeu, that is, Snakes-tongue.

And such a kinde of stone as this Snakes-tongue, (as Agricola and some other Authors write) is found in a certain earth neer Linuburgh in Saxony. And Conradus Gesner affirmeth, that there is a cer∣tain Town in Germany called Aenipo••, where there is one of these stones half a cubit long, and there∣fore it seemeth that they are not all generated in Serpents or Snakes heads. Among the French-men this stone is called Sugne, because there be Serpents seen in it twyning their tails together, or folding them one within another.

There was wont to be a superstitious way to extract or expresse this stone from out of the Snake, which was done in this manner; First, when they had taken the Snake alive, they did presently hang her up by the tail, then just underneath her they did make a suffumigation of Laurel, and so did conjure the Snake, saying; Per Dominum qui te creavit, lapidem tuum quem in capite tenes te instanter ejicere jubeo: This kinde of enchanting charm, I hold not worthy to be translated, and yet let me not be blamed for the relation of it, seeing it is pertinent to this story to know all the good and evill about these Serpents. And therefore, not to expresse the same at all, might argue in me, either ig∣norance, or silly precisenesse: and again on the other side, to make it vulgar, might bring me into suspicion of some approbation: therefore let the Reader know it from me, but understand it from some other.

And for mine own opinion, I account no better of these Snake-stones then I do of the Toad-stones, concerning which I have already given my opinion in another place. And therefore what here is related of this stone, let it be examined, and then be either received or refused.

Many, and almost infinite are the Epithets which are given to Snakes, whereby their nature is expressed, as Aliger anguis, the winged Snake, black, fierce, blew, greedy, wilde, cold, Gorgonean, wreathen, sliding, deadly, lightsome, spotted, martial, threatning, purple, wholesome, scaly, terrible, winding, grim, swelling, fearful, venomous, green, infolded or implicit, horrible, hissing, Marsian, Maurian, pestilent, retorted, and such other like, as it hath pleased the several Authors writing here∣of to ascribe and attribute unto it. Which we will not prosecute with any explication, but only leave them to the Readers pleasure, being only content to nominate them.

There is great account or reckoning made of their egges, which they lay in the Summer time, for first of all they are so glewed and conjoyned together, partly with the speetle and moistnesse which proceedeth from their mouths, and partly with the spume and froath of their own body, that a man seeing their beaps, would judge them to be coupled together by some artificial devise. These egges thus knotted together in bunches, the Latinos call 〈◊〉〈◊〉. The Dr••ides or ancient Wisards of England and Scotland, have delivered, that if the Snake hisse, these will of their own accord fly up into the air, and then if some wise man take them by prevention, before they touch the ground again, the Snakes will follow him as fast as any Horse, until he come to some River, into the which they dare not enter.

And the folly of these also proceeded so far, that they were not ashamed to report, that if one of these Anguines or bunches of egges, were tyed to a piece of gold, it would swim in a River against the stream. These they commended unto Princes and Great m••n to carry about with them in the time of wars and other contentions, and that therefore when a Roman Knight of Volentii,

was found by Claudius to carry one of these about him, he was by the Emperors commandment put to death.

But to leave vanities, we will prosecute the true and natural description of their egges in this manner; They are round and soft, in colour white, cleaving (as we have already said) together in great bunches forty, or fifty, or a hundred in a cluster, without, they are covered with a skin or crust, much harder and whiter then the substance contained within it, which is like matter, or the rotten Egges of a Hen or Duck, in quantity as big as Bullies, Plums, and seldom bigger, being most com∣monly very round and orbicular. Yet Gesner reporteth, that he had one sent him of the proportion of Lentil, and as great as the fist of a Man, and within every egge appear certain small things, like the tails of Serpents, or Leaches, being in number ten, five greater and five smaller, one folded or lapped within another. And these have also little pustules upon the skin or crusts, whereof one doth not touch the other.

Out of these Egges come the young ones, but I cannot affirm what great affection the old ones bear unto them, or that when many Snakes lay their egges together every one in that multitude hath skill to discern her own Egges from the other. For I have been with other my Colleagues or School-fellows when I was young, at the destruction of many thousands of them, and never per∣ceived that the old Snake did with any extraordinary affection fight for their egges, but rather for∣sook them, and suffered us to do with them what we pleased: which sometimes we brake, sometimes scattered abroad upon the dunghill out of which we digged them, and sometimes we cast them into the next River we came at, but never saw any of them recollected again to their former place by the Snakes, although the place were very full of them, and therefore I conclude for mine own experience, that Snakes cannot be perceived to bear any exceeding love in nature to their egges or young ones.

Their ordinary food for the most part, is earth, Frogs, Worms, Toads, and especially Paddocks, or crook-backed Frogs, Newts, and small fishes. The Foxes and Snakes which are about the Ri∣ver Nilus are at continual variance, and besides, the Harts are by nature common enemies to all Serpents.

They are not in venom inferiour to other Serpents, for they infect the waters neer to houses, and are many times the causes of diseases and death, whereof the Physitians cannot discern. When they bite or sting, there followeth extream pain, inflamation, greennesse or blacknesse of the wound, diz∣zinesse in the head, and death within three days. Whereof dyed Phyloctetes, General of the Fleet of Greece, in Lemnos, Daedalus and Menalippus.

The cure of this evil must be by Origan stamped and laid to the sore with Lie and Oyl, or ashes of the root of an Oak with Pitch, or Barley-meal mixed with Honey and Water, and sod at the fire. And in drink take wilde Nosewort, Daffadil flowers, and Fennel-seed in Wine. And it is also said, that a man carrying about him the Liver of a Snake, shall never be bitten by any of that kinde. And this Liver is also prescribed against the Stone in the Bladder, being drunk in strong drink. And thus much for this Serpent.

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 * 1.297 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 * 1.298 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.

Of the Tame or House SPIDER.

ARistotle, that diligent searcher and seeker out of Nature and naturall causes, termeth this kinde of Spider a very gallant and excellent wise creature. King Salomon himself, at whose high wisdome all succeeding ages have and will admire, amongst those four small Creatures, which in wisdom do out-strip the greatest Philosophers, reckoneth the Spider for one, dwelling (as he saith) in Kings Courts, and there devising and weaving his inimitable web. The Poets faign that the Spi∣der called Arachne, was in times past a Mayden of Lydia, who being instructed of Minerva in the cunning skill of Embroydery and spinning, grew therein so excellent, and took such a pride in the same, (for you must remember she was a woman) that she stifly denyed, facing it out in braving wise, that Minerva was never her Instructer, and so arrogant presumptuous she was, as that she feared not to challenge her Mistresse Goddesse to work with her, if she durst for her ears enter the list, in all manner of Embroydery, Tapestry-works, and the like.

At which, Mistresse Minerva being netled, and taking the matter in dudgeon, thus to be provo∣ked, and withall reprehending the mayd very sharply for her sawcinesse, in a pelting chase she brake to pieces the wenches imagery work, that was so curiously woven, and so full of variety, with her shittle. The Mayd hereat being fore grleved half in despair, not knowing what to doe, yeelding to passion, would needs hang her self. But Minerva taking compassion upon her, would not have her die forth with, but transformed her into a Spider, hanging by a fine small thred or line.

Atque ita vive quidem, pende tamen, improba, dixit, Lexque eadem poenae, no ••is secura ••ututi, Dicta tuo generi, serisque 〈…〉〈…〉epolibus esto.

In English thus;

So live indeed, yet hang, thou womanvile, She said, and let the self same law of punishment Be unto thee and all thy ofspring, while All kindred lasts: shall not futures thee content.

If any be desirous to know more of this fable, let him read the famous Poet Ovid, who hath ex∣cellently written thereof in the sixth book of his Metamorphosis, although somewhat differing from this of Pliny. The Grecians besides do write, as Caelius Rodoginus, in his 7. book Lectionum Antiq. Chap. 16. affirmeth, how that there was in the Countrey of Attica a certain man called Phalanx, who had also a Sister named Arachne, and when Phalanx had perfectly learned of Minerva the Mili∣tary Science, and all other warlike exercises and offices that belong to a Souldier, and that she had likewise instructed his Sister Arachne in weaving, spinning, and needle-work, they concluded a match between themselves, but the Goddesse being much displeased with such a shamefull and in∣cestuous marriage, marring their fashion, she disfigured them both into the number of creeping Creatures, laying this as a just punishment upon them, to be destroyed of their own young ones.

But it is at every mans choice to interpret these to be either fables and Canterbury tales, or true historicall narrations: yet most are of this minde, that Arachne first invented spinning of linnen, weaving and working with the needle, which this mayd of Lydia first learned from the Spiders, taking her first Samplers and patterns from them for imitation; which no man ought to think to be strange, sith the craft of playstering or working things in earth, and the Art of curing the eyes, was first taken from the Swallowes. The Eagles have taught us Architecture, and men first received the light of Phlebotomie or letting of bloud from the Hippopotamus, which is a beast living in the River of Nilus, having feet like an Oxe, and his back and mane like a Horse, with a winding tayl, and tusked like a Boar. The bird of Egypt called Ibis, first gave knowledge to Physitians how to use the Glyster; yea, Dogs, Goats, Harts, Storks, Swallowes and Weasels, have taught men many medicines for many diseases.

To begin therefore to make an enumeration of their prayses, I will declare unto you, the rich vertues and externall goods of the body, fortune and minde. And first to begin with the good gifts of their bodies. If you will weigh and consider the matter and substance of a Spiders body, you shall finde it to be light, partaking much of fire and ayr, (being two of the most noble and effectuall elements in operation) and having but little earthy dragginesse and drossy refuse. If you behold their figure, they have either a Sphaericall and heavenly, or at least wise an Ovall form, which is next to the Sphaericall, as being the perfectest of all other. Besides, their substance is thin, fine, glistering, and subtile, yea, although they seem now and then to be fatted up with plenty of meat, that they grow as big in bulk as a Walnut, and if the learned Cardan may be credited, they grow otherwhiles as great as a Sparrow: yet for all that, if you cast your eye on them against the light, hanging in their web, she glittereth and shineth on all parts like unto the Chrysolite, which is a kinde of precious stone, shining with a golden colour quite thorow, causing a pleasant re∣flexion to the eyes, and piercing them with singular delight.

The colour of a Spider is somewhat pale, such as Ovid a scribeth to Lovers, and when she hang∣eth aloft in her web, with her legs wide and large spread abroad, she perfectly and lively expresseth the shape and proportion of a painted Starre: as if nature had intended to give and bestow on her, not onely the resemblance and counterfeit similitude of heaven, but also the very lustre of the Starres themselves. The skin of a Spider is so soft, smooth, exquisite, pure, clean, and neat, that it farre surpasseth by many degrees, the polished skins of those maids that have the Green∣sickensse, or those young whores that are so carefull in sparing no cost to preserve their beauties: and it is of such cleernesse and perspicuity, that it will easily represent the visage and physiogno∣my of any beholder of it, much like unto a fine glasse. Further, it hath fingers, for all the world such as fair Virgins desire to have, that is to say, long, round, and slender, being also endued with the most exquisite sense of touching that possibly can be imagined, insomuch that it farre sur∣mounteth any mortall man living, and all other creatures in the world besides, according to that old and common Verse;

Nos aper auditupraecellit, Aranea tactu, Vultur odoratu, Lynx visu, Simia gustu.

Which may be Englished thus;

To hear, the Boar, to touch, the Spider us excells, The Lynx to see, the Ape to taste, the Vulture for the smells.

It hath also feet, but yet not such a multitude as Scolopendraes have, nor yet none at all, as the meanest rank and sort of Creatures, nor yet six only, as the common sort of Insects: but it hath eight, a number which the meanest Sophister in Cambridge can resolve, is next to the perfectest of all numbers, and these feet consisting of a sesquitertiall proportion, which of all Mathematicians is esteemed to be wonderfull and admirable, so that although the hinder be shorter then the sore-legs, yet notwithstanding they retain a mutuall harmony, equality, and semblable concordance. Many Philosophers have not dared to affirm that they are blinde, but they themselves in this poynt are

most blinde. For if they be deprived of their eyes and eye-sight, I would sain be resolved how they could make choice of such apt and convenient places for their hunting trade, and with what guide, Captain, or Directer, they do knit, fasten and tye one thred to another, in such admirable order, rank and range, as the excellentest work-men in the world stand amazed at. Or else how they can come to the knowledge when their webs are broken by chance, or have the skill to amend them, being either shaken or burst in sunder. Besides, we may all observe by our own experience, that if one take a flie, and hold her at the side of the web, the familiar, tame, or domesticall Spider espying her, will make all the haste she can through thick and thin, yea though she be farre off, and will boldly assayl and devour her, and will (as a man may say) take her out of your hands into her own, which thing I have often seen done. Surely therefore those persons are half blinde, who neither can conceive nor see, that Spiders can see.

Now in that a Spider seemeth to some to be an ugly and loathsome Creature, and even at the first sight to be detested, in regard it is so mishapen, I will not impute this to any defect or de∣fault that is in their form or proportion, but I rather ascribe it to their exceeding great Melan∣choly (for this humour is most predominant in them) and to their strange lusting or longing, by reason of naughty humours gathered about the mouth of the stomack, yea, and to their lack of stay and moderation in their lusts and affections. For they are no lesse beholding to Nature for their elegancy, handsome and proper feature, then the Butter-fly, or any other Cut-waste whatsoever. To conclude this poynt, GOD hath given and bestowed upon this strange and admirable body, as strange and admirable a disposition, nature, and constitution of the skin. For a Spider changeth her skin, not once only in a years space, (as Vipers do) but once in the space of a moneth she re∣neweth it, (if she be well fed, and not hunger-starved) and putteth on a new hue and skin, and the same in all poynts more fresh, exquisite and neat, then the old skin which she cast off.

Amongst the blessings of Fortune, or rather Fate, I esteem this to be the excellentest that is con∣ferred upon them, in that they bear about with them an inexhausted matter or substance in their bellyes, to make infinite webs, yea, such a matter as can never be consumed, wasted or spent, of which they have such foyson, as they are able to draw out in length and breadth, and to spin and devise innumerable threds and stuffe to make and finish their Cob-webs of, so that i•• a hundred flies light in them, they are of force sufficient so to entangle and ensnare them all, as they shall never get out again. Furthermore, although they have neither food nor sustenance laid up in Barns or Store-houses, as Pismires have, nor yet any meat set or sowed for them as Bees have, but get their commons only by taking of booties casually, by hunting at all adventures, and by chanceable preys, yet do they satisfie nature, and expell hunger, by means of that hazardous and suddain spoyl; and sometimes you shall see them grown very thick, fat, and unwieldy, by reason of these good dishes, and fat messes of meat which they can purchase by their own good wary husbandry, or by any means can lay hold on, and catch into their clawes.

Besides, I must tell you that Spiders have not the least benefit of Fortunes favour bestowed upon them, when as being inglutted with Courtly Viands, they have been glad to exchange lodg∣ings with an old Courtier called Podagra, or the Gowt, for it skilleth not whether of these two names you will chuse. For you have heard before, the wise King Solomo•• to have given them the most prime and chiefest places in Princes Courts, that she might be an absolute pattern and presi∣dent of wit, wisdome, moderate frugality and vertue, and in divers poynts of regiment they might be our directors for imitation. Further, beginning their Cob webs, they have wholly bent and applyed themselves to their most ingenious weaving trade, they have given themselves to curious and superstitious hunting, to captious taking at advantage, watching and espying their prey, no∣thing at all fearing any ambushes, treacheries, traps or treasons and no whit dreading any assaults, much lesse triumphs: and to speak briefly, the wisest creature of the wisest King, beareth a great stroke, domineereth, and hath (I may say) the sole soveraignty in the most noble, greatest, and stateliest Courts of Princes.

And yet for all these vertues, (since Salomons time) there have risen up and followed some Prin∣ces and Governours, unadvised, desperately naught, and unthrifty, and such as were not well in their wits, and of those it cannot easily be spoken how churlishly they entertained her, how they sent out their proclamations and warrants, to expell the Spider, to cast her down to the earth, tread under foot, undoe and kill, as a night-thief, with beesoms, brooms, brushes and long poles, so that by and by in a trice there flocked certain Furies of hell, (for so I think I may justly term them) rubbing, brushing, spunging, making clean sluts-corners, beating and sweeping together, and whatsoever they found curiously wrought, all that either they swept clean away, or tore all to pieces, so that hardly they could escape the busie beesomes of these quick-sighted and lewd naughty packs.

Surely, miserable was her condition and estate, which in all that abundance of wealth, she only being indigent and bare, detesting idlenesse withall, might not yet be admitted tenant for some short term of time, in some small odde corner, in such large and spacious buildings, nor yet finde one hole to live at peace in. Again, the great men, the rich misers and penny-fathers, following the example of their Princes and Governours, they in like sort sent packing out of their doors, the School-mistresse of all labour, diligence and vertue, and will not permit a web, the very pattern, index, and anathema of super naturall wisdome to remain untouched.

This same Spider which now we treat of, in times past, (it was when Dogs and Cats could speak, for now because there are so many languages in the world, they turn all to plain barking) took a long journey into a strange Countrey, and by good hap fell into company with my Lady Pod••gra, although (being none of the best footers) she could hardly keep way with the Spider, but lagged still behinde, and having now spent one whole day in travell, the night approaching that they should take up their Inne to lodge in, they resolved betwixt them two to betake themselves to sun∣dry houses; so the Spider entring the Town, took up her lodging in the house of a certain weal∣thy Citizen, (I suppose it was neer the sign of the three Tunnes in Tower-hill-street) where when ac∣cording to her usuall manner, hating lewd idlenesse, she began to buckle her self to her wonted task, in weaving her fine Tapestry, and other wrought work, being suddenly espyed of a com∣pany of corner-creepers, Spider-catchers, fault-finders, and quarrell-pickers, they presently begin to expostulate the matter with her, and not staying to hear any reason for her just defence, they made no more adoe but gave her Jack-drummes entertainment, thrusting her out of doors by the head and shoulders, to seek her lodging where she could finde it; so that she lay abroad without doors a whole Winters-night in the rain and cold: and all this happened about Saint Nicholas time, when dayes are at the shortest.

Now in the mean space Podagra having none of the best feet, but indeed being somewhat lame, when she could travail no further, she by chance light into a poor Cottage or cabbin of turfs, builded with Elder-poles at the Towns end, and yet in this poor shed she could hardly be received, but yet at length, through her incessant solicitation being admitted, she sate down to rest her wea∣ry bones, so at length, supper being prepared, the tender-hearted Lady found course fare, and commons farre shorter and more homely, then ever Lipsius found in Westphalia: she indured all the miseries in the World, that pity it was to see. There was no infelicity, no distresse, misfortune and adversity to be compared unto hers, for there was nothing but a little brown Barley-bread set on the board to sup withall, which this nice piece so much misliked and abhorred, as that at the very sight thereof she was ready to disgorge her queasie stomack, then was there brought some Cock-crown keal, having no good relish, for they were not seasoned with salt, so that they were in taste very untoothsome, and when they should drink, they fetcht a little cold water out of a pit or pond, neer adjoyning to the house, in a wooden dish, whereof if Mistresse Podagra had fetched but one sound carouse, it would have made her run through an Alphabet of faces: but there was no remedy, hunger breaketh stone-walls, and hard need makes the old wife trot, she must either quench her thirst with that or fast.

Having thus thinly supped, she called for her Chamber, where they shewed her to climbe up a Ladder, (you would have taken it to have been the fleas Ladder) and behinde a corner there was provided a bed stuffed with good Wheat-chaffe in stead of Down, to harden her hide, and under her head a hard Oken-logge, with the Winnow-cloth, and the one end of an old Hop-bag, cast over in stead of Coverlet, (for the poor man and his wife, thought that none but the Lord of the Town, and women in childe-bed used Pillowes.) But Podagra not knowing how to mend the matter, groan∣ed and made a lamentable noyse, and fetching a thousand sighes she couched her self down. But alas what ill rest she poor heart took that night, and how ill her soft and tender limbs agreed with such cold cheer and entertainment, I referre my self to your secret thought. So soon theresore as the day began to break, she started up, and the Spider and she met together again at the appoint∣ed time and place: and first of all the Spider began much to complain of the incivility of the rich Chuffe his host the Citizen. Podagra contrary-wise found as much or more fault with the short and sharp commons, thin diet, miserable poverty, and indigency of his poor, bare and lean host, shewing her black and blew marks and prints, into whose tender skin the boards and planks had made a deep impression. For which cause, being both much discontented, after the matter was throughly debated betwixt them two, they determined and resolved within themselves, that the night following they would change Hostes and Innes, that is, that the Spider should enter into some poor Cottages, or houses of poor men, and Podagra should bend her course unto No∣ble and great mens houses, to Kings Courts, and Princely Palaces, to see what good was to be done there. So Podagra not being unmindfull of her word, went with a fine and Snail-like pace to the house of a certain fat, rich, and well monied man, and quietly laid herself down at the feet of this corsie Sire: which as soon as the gentle Host cast an eye upon, it is strange to tell with what mildeness, with what allurement and gentle intreaty, with what promptitude and alacrity she was welcomed; they prepared soft pallats of Down for her to lye upon, the Bedsteds and the Settles whereon she should rest, were covered with Pillowes, soft Cushions, and Carpets of Persia, the Kitchen smokes, and all things are in a readinesse to give her a most friendly wellcome. Accor∣ding to the words of the Poet, where he saith;

Jam dapibus mensas oneraut et pocula ponunt.

In English thus;

Spread are the tables, and laded with store Of delicates, the Cups filled, could receive no more.

Briefly, he was in all points for person and provision such a one as Chaucer in his works descri∣beth his Fra〈…〉〈…〉lin to be:

White was his beard as the Daisis, And of complexion he was sanguine, Well loved he by the morrow a sop in wine: To liven in delight was ever his won, For he was Epicures own son, That held opinion that plain delight, Was very felicity parfi••e. An housholder and that a great was he, Saint Julian he was in his Countree, His bread, his ale, was alway after one, A better vi••••ded man was never none. Without bake-meat was never his house, Of fish and flesh, and that so plenteouse, It snewed in his house of meat and drink, Of all dainties that men could think. After the sundry seasons of the yeer, So changed he his meat and his suppere. Full many a fat Patrich had he in m••••, And many a Bream, and many a Luce in flue. Woe was his Cooke, but his sawce ever were Poynant and sharp, and ready all his gere. His table d〈…〉〈…〉aunt in his Hall alway, Stood ready covered all the long day.

Nay, hither they brought fat and crammed Capons, Pheasants, Quails, Turtle-doves, Larks, and Nightingals. I passe over Turbot or Byrt, Gilt-heads, Sturgion, Salmonds, Soals, and the like, for they were not unfurnished of all these, and of other store of shell-fish, as Lobsters, Crevishes, Oysters, and whatsoever the Sea yeelded that might by love or money be purchased: for I will not speak of a great number of River-fish and Fouls that are to be had about Peterborow, Wittlesey-mare, and those Fennish Countreys, for thither he sent his people to purvay for him all that was rare and dainty. Here was Red-wine, White, Claret, Muscadell, Rhenish, sweet-wines, harsh-wines, wine of Falernum, of the Islands of Creta, Chio, Madera, and those that are called Baleares, lying neer unto the Coast of Spain.

To speak nothing of their rear-suppers, their fine Marchpanes, and curious Confections, made with sundry devises, and exquisite skill of the Apothecary. And to conclude, there was no wanton fare unsought for, no delicate Juncate, no curious trimming and pickednesse that might gratifie, no fair words, and pleasant enticements fit to draw and allure, nor no delectation whatsoever omit∣ted, that might seem to please this great Lady Podagra, (for you must understand she was none of the coursest sort of Ladies, whereof there be many now adaies, for all men know she was a Gen∣tlewoman born, both by the fathers and mothers side, as being the daughter of Bacchus and Venus,) and all this, I say, was done to please both her and her two sweet Sisters, Chiragra and Congra, a pox take them all three, and so I will let them go, and come to the Spider, who likewise being di∣rected by some favourable Planet, boldly and luckily trudged to the poor mans house.

—Atque ibi miro Dogmate, quidv•• marem deceat deceatque marit am Addocet, atque suo sese sudore saginat.

Which may be Englished thus;

And there by strange instructions and documents, She teacheth male and female how to live, That is, both man and wife how to increase their rents, Whilst she, on her own sweat and fat doth thrive.

But some man may here object and say, I see here no such great blessings of Lady Fortune, more then besides a bare commendation, and good hap in this their exchange of lodging and lodg∣ers. Yes surely, very much, not only because she spendeth her dayes more freely and safely from danger, but also because as out of a high watch-tower, she no longer beholdeth in the houses of poor persons, lavish and needlesse prodigality, banquettings, quaffings, rioting, playes, dancing, dicing, and whoring, and a thousand vanities and villanies besides, whereof she knew her self con∣scious, and a privy witnesse unto, whilst she lived in the Halls and Bowers of the rich and wealthier sort; who when they had thrust clean from house and home, and for ever banished the Spider, (the true School-mistresse of industry and frugality) straightwayes the lazie Gowt called Podagra, arrested them. Had it not been better for them (think you) to have granted a dwelling place to a saving, wise, prudent, and harmlesse little creature, then to have given entertainment to such a base, blockish companion and guest as the Gowt is? Let not therefore, rich, covetous men won∣der, if many times they be tormented with this sore grief, sith they will neither admit true Physi∣tian nor physick, I mean, travail, diligence, industry, moderation, and pains-taking, with the like.

Now to touch the rich and rare gifts and graces of the minde, and other noble qualities and dispositions of Spiders, I know not whether I should first begin with the commendation of their prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance, their Philanthropia, Philoponia, Autarkeia, their humanity and love towards men, their studious industry and love of labour, their contentation as having suffi∣cient, and coveting no more then is allotted unto them. Their wittinesse, policy, quickness and sharpnesse of sense, their cleanly neatnesse, with many other vertues, or else her admirable cunning and skilfulnesse in their weaving trade. Their prudence, sagacity, and wittinesse to conjecture things future, appeareth in this one thing, that when great abundance of rain, flouds, swelling and overflowings of Rivers, are like shortly to come to passe, and thereby to threaten houses, they then begin to build their Webs higher by a great deal, then their usuall custome heretofore hath been. And this is another proof of the same, in that they weave not at all in a clear Sun-shine-day,

or when it is fair and calm weather, when Flies are most busie in flying about to and fro, that they may be the better at leasure to give themselves to hunting and watching after them, to take advantage, and if any chance to light into their nets, forthwith to seize upon them for their repast.

Again, when houses are ready to drop down, they with their Cobwebs first of all fall, and get them away packing, alter their climate to some other surer place and dwelling to rest in. If any thing touch her body that is hard or painfull, she immediately draweth up her legs round on a heap, for this end as I think, to feel the lesse pain, and the better to provide for the health and safety of her head, the directer and governer of the whole body: for if any other part be hurt, she can easily cure it. Who hath manifested and made known this unto them? Hath any Chaldean Star∣gazer, or figure-flinger, by the sight and position of the starres shewed it unto them; No cer∣tainly. But a divine prudence and forefeeling knowledge, originally inbred by Nature, to es∣chew that which is hurtfull, which is diffused into the Spider, and as that famous Poet Virgilius hath excellently described,

Spirit us intus alit, totesque infusa per artus Mens agitat molem.

In English thus;

Minde bred within, infused in all limbs, Minde moves the bodies lump, and skins.

Furthermore, so soon as they espy their enemy to be caught in their nets, they do not first of all bite and prick him to death in any hostile manner, but they seem with their feet gently and soft∣ly to stroke him, yea even to intreat and allure him with tickling, and as it were clipping and col∣ling, untill they have throughly insnarled him within their clammy and viscous gins, and being at length wearied, turmoiled, and tired with strugling and striving in vain, the silly Flie is made unable either to get away, stir, or resist. So having made sure work with one, she hyeth her to the center of her Web, observing and prying whether any new prey will come to hand again: so by this policy you shall see sometimes ten, yea otherwhiles twenty Flies hanging alo••t by their strings and fine-spun threds.

They only feed on the juice of Flies, and the dry Carkase without any moysture, they cast away as unprofitable stuffe to be used about any businesse. Moreover, because the Female Spider is sometimes greater then the Male, therefore she chuseth her standing in the lower part of the Web, that the poor Flies may seem carelesse of her, yet is she very observant, taking great heed to them: for they seeing her hanging below, thinking themselves safe, do fly up into the upper part of the net, but by this means seeking to shun Charybdia, they fall into Scilla, out of the smoke into the fire: for though in regard of her bodies magnitude, she be unwieldy, and very unfit to bestir her self in this hunting office: yet the crafty Male Spider playing Bo-peep, and pretending some other businesse, though minding another, playing the dissembling Hypocrite, hideth himself in the top of the Web, noting well all occurrents, and being seen of no body, there he lurketh till some fish (as we say) come to his net, and having espyed his prey, being more light, quick, and lively, it is a wonder to see how diligent, vigilant, and earnestly bent he is to bend his course with all expedition toward this new offered booty; for there he will not suffer it very long to remain, but descending in a trice, Euro velocius, as quick as a Bee from the upper to the lower part (as I have said) of the Cobweb, he maketh a very quick dispatch, and having royally feasted himself, he reserveth and layeth up all his other enemies in one place, hanging them all by one of his own threds till some convenient time to feast himself again withall. Then again when as by reason of long continuance and length of time, the Webs have lost their binding viscosity, and tenaci∣ous substance, either the Spider unweaveth them again, or else confirmeth and new strengthneth them afresh as it were, with another new glutinosity, or fast-binding clamminesse. This their work being finished, they either contain themselves in the center of it, or keeping sentinell and warding in the upper part, they hold as it were in their hands a thred drawn from the middest or center, by which they have easie accesse and recesse to and fro to their beguiling nets; and with∣all this thred serveth to another profitable use, for if any prey be intangled, by the light moving and stirring of it, they presently feel and perceive it. But yet to make sure work, lest she should winde down in vain, or take bootlesse labour about nothing, she draweth back the thred a little now and then, and by the motion and poize of it, she putteth all out of doubt, being fully ascer∣tained of the truth.

Then first, with all celerity possible she hies her to the Center, which thing the silly Flies being fast, and having some sense and feeling (as it should seem) that they are taken tardy, and for deem∣ing some hurt, are as quiet as a Mouse in a trap, making no noyse at all, left either they might be∣wray or betray themselves, and so be further enfolden in danger. But alasse in vain doth he avoyd warre, that cannot enjoy peace, and bootlesse doth he shun pain, that hath no means to feel rest: for this availeth but little, for they are not able with all these fetches to deceive their sharp inqui∣sitors, for both with eyes and feet, they finely and quickly run unto them, making a clean riddance and quick dispatch of them every one.

But yet it is more to consider what great justice and equity is observed to be in Spiders: For there is not one of them so ill bent, so malapertly sawcy, and impudently shamelesse, that can be seen to

lay claim unto, or to take away anothers wife or mate: there is none that intermedleth with ano∣thers substance, businesse, or weaving; every one liveth contented by the sweat of his own browes, by their own proper goods and industrious pains-taking procured by their own bodily labour: so that not one of them dare enter his Neighbours freehold, but it is accounted a hainous matter, and very unlawfull, not one dare be so knack-hardy as to break into their friends and fellowes fence and enclosure, but it is even detested as a wicked and cursed deed.

Non ita mortales, quos (proh dolor) urget habendi Tantus amor, domibus domus, arvis additur arvum, Monticulus monti, maribus mare, sique potessint Addiderint mundum mundo, suaque omnia dixint.

In English thus;

Then would not mortall men so farre ingag'd in love to have (A death it is to think) house to house, and land to land to lay, Hillock to hill, sea unto sea, to adde they crave, And if they could, world unto world, and all their own would say.

Again, they spread not their gins and nets to entrap and deceive good Creatures, and such as serve for mans use and benefit, but for Wasps, Horse-flies, or Gad-bees, and Brimsees, or Oxe-flies, that in Summer-time vexe Cattle, for Drones Gnats, and other Flies, which to us are like to Theeves, Parasites, Bawds, Panders, and such Merchants that bring whores and knaves together, being Telluris inutile pondus, an unprofitable burthen of the earth, serving to no good use. And besides, being a vermin of singular and incomparable courage, she dare adventure to give the on∣set upon those young Serpents that are called Lizards, who if they offer to contend and strive against her fury, she quickly enclaspeth them round about, and very nimbly and eagerly seizeth upon both their lips, biting and holding them together so fast, that she never giveth over till they be dead: and at length having vanquished her enemies, she like another Cacus carrieth them in∣to her Cave, or some secret corner.

Now if it happen in this hot bickering, that the nets be either broken, intangled, or platted together, by and by without further delay she falls to mending what was amisse, to unwinde, spread open, and to set them again in due order and frame very ingeniously. What say you to this? That the Spider beareth a deadly feud and mortall hatred to Serpents: for if so be the Serpent at any time lie in the shadow under any tree to cool himself, where Spiders do resort, some one of them levelleth directly at him, descending down perpendicularly to the Serpents head, and with such a violence striketh and dasheth at his head with her beak or snout, that her enemy withall making a whizzing noyse, and being driven into a giddinesse, turning round, hisseth, being neither able to break asunder the thred that cometh from above, nor yet hath force enough to escape it. Nei∣ther is this spectacle or pageant ended, untill this our champion with her battering, hath sent her life to Pluto, the God of Hell for a present. Let men therefore be silent, and cease wondering at the amphitheatricall fights of the Romans, which were made with seats and scaffolds to behold Playes and sights, and where were presented to the Spectators the bloudy fights of Elephants, Bears, and Lions, sithence a small Spider dare challenge to the field, and fight hand to hand with a black and blew Serpent, and not only to come down to him in daring wise, but also victoriously to tri∣umph over him, entirely possessing all the spoyl. Who would not marvail that in so small, or in a manner no body at all, which hath neither bones, nor sinnewes, nor flesh, nor scarce any skin, there could be so great force, such incredible audacity and courage, such sharp and hard bitings, and invincible fury? Surely we must conclude necessarily, that this cannot proceed altogether from their valiant stomacks, but rather from GOD himself: In like sort, they dare buckle with Toads of all sorts, both of the land and water, and in a singular combate overthrow and destroy them, which thing not only Pliny and Albertus do recite and set down for a certain truth, but Eras∣mus also in his Dialogue entituled De Amicitia, maketh mention of, reporting how a certain Monk lying fast asleep, on whose mouth a foul Toad sate, and yet by the Spiders means was freed from all hurt. Yea, they dare enter the combat with winged and stinged Hornets, having not soft but stiffe bodies, and almost as hard as horn, who although she many times breaketh through their Cobwebs with main strength (as rich men undoe and make a way through Lawes with Gold, and by that means many times scape scot-free) yet for all that, at length being over-mastered, hand to hand in single combat, and intangled and insnarled with the binding pastinesse, and tenacious glewish substance of the Web, she payeth a deer price for her breaking into anothers house and possession, yeelding at length to the Spiders mercy.

I will not omit their temperance, a vertue in former ages proper only to men, but now it should seem peculiar to Spiders. For who almost is there found (if age and strength permit) that con∣tenteth himself with the love of one as he ought, but rather applyeth his minde, body, and wan∣dering affections to strange loves? But yet Spiders so soon as they grow to ripenesse of age, do choose them Mates, never parting till death it self make the separation. And as they cannot abide Corrivalls, if any Wedlock-breakers, and Cuckold-makers dare be so snappish to enter, or so insolently proud as to presse into anothers house or Cottage, they reward him justly

with condigne punishment for his temerarious enterprize, and flagitious fact: First by their cru∣ell bitings, then with banishment or exile, and oftentimes with death it self. So that there is not any one of them, that dare offer villany or violence to anothers Mate, or seek by any means un∣lawfully to abuse her. There is such restraint, such strict orders, such faithfull dealing, uprightnesse of conscience, and Turtle love amongst them. Further, if you look into their house-keeping, you shall finde there is nothing more frugall then a Spider, more laborious, cleanly, and fine. For she cannot abide that even the least end or piece of her thred to be lost, or to be placed and set to no use or profit, and they ease and relieve themselves by substitutes, that supply their rooms and take pains for them: for whilest the Female weaveth, the Male applyeth himself to hunting, if either of them fall sick and be weak, then one of them doth the work of both, that their merits and deserts may be alike. So sometimes the Female hunteth whilest the Male is busie about Net-ma∣king, if the one stand in need of the others help and furtherance.

But yet commonly the Female-Spider being instructed of her Parents when she was young and do∣cible, the art of spinning and weaving (which custome was amongst us also in times past) begin∣neth the Cobweb, and her belly is sufficient to minister matter enough for such a piece of work, whether it be that the nature or substance of the belly groweth to corruption at sun-set and ap∣pointed time (as Democritus thought) or whether there be within them a certain lanigerous ferti∣lity naturally as in Silk-worms. Aristotle is of opinion, that the matter is outward as it were a cer∣tain Shell or pill, and that it is unwound, loosened, and drawn out by their fine weaving and spin∣ning. But howsoever it be, certain it is, they will not by their good wills lose the least jot of a threds end, but very providently see to all though never so little. The love they bear to their young breed is singular, both in the care they have for their fashioning and framing to good or∣ders, and for their education otherwise, for the avoidance of idlenesse. For the Male and Female do by turns sit upon their Egges, and so by this way interchangeably taking courses, they do stirre up, quicken, move and encrease naturall and lively heat in them, and although it hath been sun∣dry times observed, that they have brought forth three hundred young ones at once, yet do they train them up all alike without exception, to labour, parsimony, and pains-taking, and inure them in good order, to fashion and frame all things fit for the weaving craft. I have often wondred at their cleanlinesse, when to keep all things from nastinesse or stinking, I have beheld with mine eyes those that were lean, ill-favoured, and sickly, to come glyding down from the upper to the lower part of their buildings, and there to exonerate nature at some hole in the Web, lest either their shop, work-house, or frame might be distained or annoyed. And this is sufficient to have spoken of their politicall, civil, and domesticall vertues: Now will I proceed to discourse of their skill in weaving, wherewith Pallas was so much offended: for the Scholar excelled her Mistres, and in fine, cunning, and curious workmanship, did farre surpasse hers. First then let us consider the mat∣ter of the Web, whose substance is tough, binding, and glutinous, pliant, and will stick to ones fin∣gers, like Bird-lime, and of such a matter it is compounded, as it neither loseth his clamminesse and fast-holding quality, either by siccity or moysture.

The matter whereof it is made, is such as can never be consumed, wasted, or spent, whilest they live, and being so endlesse, we must needs here admire and honour the never ending and infinite power of the great God: for to seek out some naturall reason for it, or to ascribe it to naturall causes, were in my minde meer madnesse and folly. The Autumnall Spiders, called Lupi or H••lci, Wolves or Hunters, are thought to be the most artificiall and ingenious: For these draw out a thred finer and thinner then any Silk, and of such a subtilty, that their whole Web being folded together, will scarce be so heavy as one fine thred of Linnen being weighed together. Edovardus Monimius hath very finely and eloquently described both the Males and Females, Heptam. lib. 7. in these words following;

—Ille domum venatu pascit, at ista Moeonio graciles orditur tegmine telas. Stanniparus venter, vomifilus lanifer, ipsi Palladiam cumulatque colum, calatosque ministrat. Ipsius est fusum pondus, quod fila trahendo Nectit & intorquet parili sub tegmine ducta. Illa suam à mediis orditur Daedala telam, Et gracili tenues intendit stamine tractus. Tela jugo juncta est, stamen secernit arundo, Inseritur medium radiis subtegmen acutis, Atque oram à centro panum sibi staminat illam, Pervia tela patet gemina de parte, feroci Ne concussa curo frangantur stamina, quoque Musca volax tenui stretur sinuamine cassis, Reticuli primam vix muscula contigit oram. Mors abit in telae centrum, ut discrimine parvo Vinciat ipse suo peregrinam casse volucrem.

Which may be Englished thus;

The Spider-male by hunting game the houses charge doth feed, The female with Moeonian art begins to spin fine thred, Out of Web-breeding belly, breast woolly, upcasting twine, Whereto the distaffe she applyes by art of Pallas fine: To her belongs the pressed weight, which doth the teal out-draw, Both matter, art, and substance, she doth shield by natures Law. Like Daedala out of her middest, her web she doth begin, And stretching out her tender worke, by pressing it full thin:

The which is joyned as in yoke, yet parted by a cane, And planted is the middle roof in a sharp beamy frame. And from the Center draweth a thred like wooll to lye upon, While double work on every part doth fortifie her wono: Wherewith the blasts of Eastern winde unbroken web resists, And tender fly insnarled, is fallen into those lists. While scarce upon the edge or brim this little Flie doth fall, But by and by death seizeth her within webs center thrall: And so the stranger winged Flie with little or no adoe, She overcometh speedily when it the nets comes to.

Of these Cobwebs there is great diversity, variety and differencé: for some of them are loose, weak, slack, and not well bound: other contrary-wise well compacted, and close couched together, some triangular, othersome quadrangular; and some are made with all sides equall, but yet not right angled or cornered like a quarry of Glasse; others are made of such a form as will best fit the place where they hunt, you shall perceive some of them to be orbicular, if they weave be∣tween two trees, and you shall finde this fashion also among weeds, and oftentimes in Windowes hanging together with many lines and different crosse pieces: so that herein no man can deny but that they shew forth great reason, wisdome, admirable judgement, and much gallant beauty wor∣thy to see to.

Surely Euclides that famous Geometrician, who was Scholar to Socrates, and lived in the time of Ptolemy the first, need not be ashamed to learn from Spiders the drawing of divers of his figures and Geometricall proportions. And Fisher-men also from them have been glad to learn the trade of Net-making. For from whom else could they borrow and fetch such lively representations and such expresse patterns, then from such a skilfull and industrious School-master. But the strength of the web seemeth to be very strange, which although it seemeth to be the most week of all other things, yet we see it is able to hold Hornets, and to endure the furious blasts of raging windes, and if one throw or cast dust upon it, the same will rather be distended and stretched, then either undone, broken, or felled down.

And yet this is the strangest of all, which many a man would think impossible but that it can∣not be called in question, in regard we may daily see and observe the proof thereof cometh to passe, that a Spider should begin to place the one end of her thred on the one side of a little Ri∣ver or Brook, and how she should fasten the other end on the other side of the water, considering that Nature never taught them the art either of flying or swimming. I would fain be resolved of this scruple, by what means they sayl and passe over. Or do you imagine that they jump over, or convey themselves over in a leap? Surely I dare not say so, I much doubt thereof, I will not stand to it.

The next that best deserveth to be marshalled in the second rank and place, for cunning work in weaving and spinning, be those kinde of Spiders who build and labour about the rafters of Houses, in Cellars, floors, and about boards, planks, and such like, and of these some are wilder, which do fashion and dresse a broad, thick, and plain web in the grasse and fields all about, stretch∣ing out the same like a sayl, or some fine spread Sheet or Curtain.

If you would duely look into their work, and throughly consider the strange trydles of their Looms, the Shittles they use, their Combes to make all clean, the stay of their Looms wherewith they dresse their Webs, their Crosse-lines, the frame, Wouf, their fine spinning-stuffe, and so their whole Cobwebs, you shall therein very plainly behold the finger of God working in his poor and weak Creatures. And questionlesse in this excellent mystery they are able to put down, and farre surmount the Egyptians, the Lydians, Penelope, Tanaquil (who was Wife to Tarquinius Priscus) Amestris that famous Queen of Persia, Claudiana, Sabina, and Julia, Noble Roman Ladies, and all the Queens of Macedonia, who were esteemed and renowned throughout the whole world, to be the most curious and exquisite in this kinde of faculty, and who in needle-work, Tapestry, and all Embroydery, were thought to be Peerlesse. For these Spiders (even contrary to all reason and Art, as we think) make a firm, strong, and well compacted Web with no lines or threds drawn crosse-wise or overthwart, but only made out and continued still in length. When their work is perfected and brought to an end, they lay over it and cover it round about with a certain glu∣tinous kinde of Jelly, or slimed juice, by touching of which their prey being entangled, pay full deerly for their ignorant rashnesse, unadvised heed-taking, and lack of fore-sight. Their Web is of the colour of the air, or rather none at all, which easily deceiveth the foolish unwary Flies, and such as be quick-sighted, circumspect, and can espy things very quickly. For if it did repre∣sent any notorious and manifest colour, they would provide in time against such dangerous devi∣ses, and take heed of such traps aforehand.

The baser and vilder sort of Spiders, and such as be least reputed of, are those that live in holes, Caves, and corners of Houses, and these in respect of the former are slow, slothfull, and lazy, fat, grosse, and big-bellyed corner-creepers, and these spin a very homely, rough, and course thred, which they spread abroad, and set before the hollow places and chinks of Walls. These kindes of Spiders have a more heavy and ponderous body, shorter feet, and more unhandsome

to work or finish any Webbes in their Looms, and as for separating, dividing, picking, carding, or suting their stuffe, they are very Bunglers to the first mentioned.

They apprehend and take their preyes rather casually, then take any great pains to seek farre for it, because their hole being great outwardly, seemeth to be a good and convenient lurking∣corner, and a safe corner for Flies to hide themselves in: but being entangled and arrested in the very entry, they are snatched up suddenly by the watchfull Spider, and carryed away into the more inward places of their dens, there to be slaughtered. For they watch and ward aloft in high walls and buildings, as well to deceive such Birds as lye in wait to intrap and take them at una∣wares, (as Sparrowes, Robin-red-breasts, Wrens, Nightingales, and Hedge-Sparrowes, which are all sworn enemies to Spiders: and besides, the more easily to beguile the silly flies suspecting no harm at all.

There be certain other sorts of Spiders, which as yet I have not described: as for example; there is one (the greatest of all that ever I saw) which spreadeth her artificiall nets in the Harvest-time amongst the leaves and branches of Roses, and entangleth either any other little Spider that is running away, or else Gnat-flies, and such like, being caught at unawares, and hanged by a kinde of thred, whom she first pursueth and layeth hold on with a wonderfull dexterity and quicknesse: and being fast hanged, and so made sure, she there leaveth them, for the satisfying of her hungry appetite till another time. The body of this Spider is in colour somewhat whitish, resembling scumme or frothy some, and almost of an Oval-figure, the head very little, placed un∣der her belly, being withall crooked or bending like hooks, as is to be seen in the Crab-fish, and her back garnished with many white spots.

This is one kinde of Autumnall Lupi, or Wolf-Spider, which in a very short space of time do grow from the bignesse of a little Pease, to a very great bulk and thicknesse. There are also found in all places of this Countrey, long-legged Spiders, who make a very homely and disorderly Web. This kinde of Spider liveth altogether in the fields, her body is almost of a round figure, and somewhat brownish in colour, living in the grasse, and delighting in the company of Sheep: and for this cause I take it, that we English men do call her a Shepheard, either for that she keepeth and loveth to be among their flocks, or because that Shepheards have thought those grounds and feed∣ings to be very wholesome wherein they are most found, and that no venemous or hurtfull creature abideth in those fields where they be: And herein their judgement is to be liked, for they are in∣deed altogether unhurtfull, whether inwardly taken, or otherwise outwardly applyed; and there∣fore because I am tyed within a Teather, and thereby restrained from all affectionate discoursing or dilating unlesse of poysonous and harmfull Creatures, I will come into my path again, and tell you of another certain black Spider, that hath very short feet, carrying about with her an Egge as white as Snow under her belly, and running very swiftly: the Egge being broken, many Spiders creep forth, which go forth with their dam to seek their living al together, and climbing upon her back when night approacheth, there they rest, and so they lodge.

In rotten and hollow trees there are also to be found exceeding black Spiders, having great bo∣dies, short feet, and keeping together with Cheeselips or those creeping vermine with many feet, called of some Sowes. We have seen also (saith the learned Gesner) Spiders that were white all over, of a round compact and well knit body, somewhat broad, living in the flowers of Mountain Parsely, amongst Roses, and in the green grasse: their Egges were little, slender, and very long, their mouth speckled, and both their sides were marked with a red line running all alongest. He took them to be very venemous, because he saw a Marmoset or Munkey to eat of them, and by eating thereof hardly to escape with life, yet at length it did well again, and was freed from further danger, only by powring down a great deal of Oyl into his throat. I my self have also seen some Spiders with very long bodies and sharp tayls, of a blackish or dark red colour, and I have noted other-some again to be all over the body green-coloured. I will not deny but that there are many other sorts of Spiders, and of many more different colours, but I never read, or yet ever saw them: Neque enim nostra fert omnia tellus, The ages ensuing peradventure will finde more.

I will only put you in remembrance of this one thing worthy to be observed, that all weaving and Net-making Spiders, according as they grow in years, so do they acquire more knowledge, and attain to greater cunning and experience in their spinning trade: but carrying a resolute and ready will to keep both time and measure with that Musick which best contents most ears, I will now pass to speak of the propagation and use of Spiders, and so I will close up this discourse.

The propagation of Spiders for the most part is by coupling together, the desire and action whereof continueth almost the whole Spring-time, for at that time by a mutuall and often draw∣ing, and easie pulling of their Web, they do as it were wooe one another, then approach they neer∣er together, and lastly are joyned with their hippes one against another backwards as Camels do, for that is the most fit for them, in regard of the round proportion and figure of their bodies. In like sort do the Phalangies joyn together, and are generated by those of the same kinde, (as Ari∣stotle saith:) But the Phalangies couple not in the Spring-season, as the other Spiders doe, but to∣wards Winter, at what time they are very swift, quick, nimble, and of most certain hurt, more dangerous, and more venemous in their bitings. Some of them after their coupling together, do lay one Egge only, carrying it under their belly, it is in colour as white as Snow, and both Male and Female sit upon it by turns.

Some Spiders do exclude many little Egges very like unto the seeds of Poppy, out of which it hath been observed, that sometimes there have been hatched three hundred Spiders at one time, which after their vain and idle plying and sporting together in their web, at length come forth with their Dam, and towards evening they all trudge home, until each one hath learned, and perfectly attained to the skill to spin his own web, that therein he may spend the residue of his days in more pleasure, ease and security. They make exclusion of their young breed in hopping or skipping-wise, they fit on their Egges for three days space together, and in a moneths space their young ones come to per∣fection. The domestical or House-spider, layeth her egges in a thin web, and the wilde-spider in a thicker and stronger, because they are more exposed to the injuries of windes, and lie more open to the rage and fury of storms and showers.

The place and Countrey where they are, helpeth much, and is very available to their generation. There is no Countrey almost, but there are many Spiders in it. For in the Countrey about Arrha, which is in Arabia foelix, there is an infinite number of them to be found, and all the Island of Candie swarmeth with Phalangies. Strabo saith, that in Ethiopia there be a great number of Phalangies found, of an exceeding bignesse: although as Pliny saith in his eight Book and 58 chapter, there are neither Wolfs, Foxes, Bears, nor no hurtful creature in it: and yet we all know that in the Isle of Wight (a member of England,) the contrary is to be found, for although there were never dwelling in it Fox∣es, Bears, nor Wolfs, yet there be Spiders enow.

The Kingdom of Ireland never saw Spiders, and in England no Phalangies will live long, nor yet in the Isle of Mon, and neer unto the City of Grenoble, in that part of France which lyeth next Italy, Gaudentius Merula saith, there is an old Tower or Gastle standing, wherein as yet never any Spider hath been seen, nor yet any other venomous creeping creature, but rather if any be brought thither from some other place, they forthwith die. Our Spiders in England, are not so venomous as in other parts of the world, and I have seen a mad man eat many of them, without either death or deaths harm, or any other manifest accident or alteration to ensue. And although I will not deny, but that many of our Spiders being swallowed down, may do much hurt, yet notwithstanding we cannot chuse but confesse, that their biting is poysonlesse, as being without venom, procuring not the least touch of hurt at all to any one whatsoever; and on the contrary, the biting of a Phalangie is deadly.

We see the harmlesse Spiders almost in every place, they climb up into the Courts of mighty Kings, to be as it were myrrors and glasses of vertue, and to teach them honest prowesse and valian∣cy. They go into the lodgings, shops and Ware-houses of poor men, to commend unto them contentment, patience, labour, tolerance, industry, poverty and frugality. They are also to be found in rich mens chambers, to admonish them of their duties. If you enter into your Orchard, they are busie in clothing every Tree; if into the Garden, you shall finde them amongst Roses; if you tra∣vail into the field, you shall have them at their work in hedges, both at home and abroad, whi∣thersoever you bend your course, you cannot chuse but meet with them, lest perhaps you might imagine, or else complain and finde some faults, that the Schoolmistresse and perfect president of all vertue and diligence were in any place absent.

Who would not therefore be touched, yea and possessed with an extream wonder at these vertues and faculties, which we daily see and behold with our eyes. Philes hath briefly and compendiously described their nature, properties, inclinations, wit and invention in his Greek verses, which being turned into Latine, sound to this effect.

Araneis natura per quam industria est, Vincens puellarum manus argutias. Nam ventris humores supervaoaneos Ceu fila nent, textoris absque pectine Et implicantes orbium volumina, Adversa sublegunt iis subtegmina: Sed liciis hinc densioribus plagas In aëre appendunt, nec unde conspicor Sejuncta cùm sit omnis a medio basis Quae fulciat mirabilem operis fabricam. Et staminum fallit ligamen lumina Subtilitatis sub dio discrimine. Firmatur autem densitas subtegminis, Raras in ambientis oras aëris. Muscis, culicibus, & id genus volantibus Intensa nectens fraudulenter retia. Quod incidit, jejuna pascit hoc famem, Vitam{que} degit haud quietis indigam. Suspensa centro, cassibusque providens, Ne fila rumpat, orbiumque dissuat Nexus retortos flaminis vis irruens.

Which may be Englished thus;

Industrious nature Spiders have, Excelling Virgins hands of skill, Superfluous humors of bellies save, And into webs they weave them still, And that without all Weavers combes Their folding orbes inrolled are, And underneath their woofs as tombes, Are spread the worthy work to bear, And hang their threads in air above, By plagues unseen to the eye of man, Without foundation you may prove All their buildings firmly stand: Nor yet clear light to the eyes most bright Can see the coupling of their thread, The thinnesse of the woof in sight, On pins of air are surest spread. On Gnats and silly winged Flies, Which guilefully in nets they take, They feed their fill when they espy, And yet their life much rest doth make. They labour too, and do provide Gainst windes and things that break their twails, That bands from tacklings may not slide, When greater strength doth them assail.

And although Minerva hath nick-named the Spider, calling her malepert, shamelesse, and sawcie; Martiall, wandring, straying and gadding; Claudianus, rash, presumptuous, and adventurous; Politia∣nus, hanging and thick; Juvenal, dry; Propertius, rotten; Virgil, light; and Plautus, unprofitable and good for nothing: yet it is clear, that they were made to serve and stead us to many excellent uses: so that you may plainly gather and perceive, that this is rather an amplification, then any positive or measured truth, concerning the fond Epithets, vile badges and liveries, which these rehearsed Authors have unworthily bestowed on them, as by that which followeth may plainly be seen.

The Spider put into a linnen clowt, and hung upon the left arm, is an excellent medicine to ex∣pel * 1.299 a Quotidian Ague, as Trallianus saith: and yet it will be more effectual if many Spiders be boyled with Oyl of Bay to the consistence of a liniment, to anoynt the wrists and the temples a little before the fit, for by this means the Feaver will be absolutely cured, or will seldom return again. Kiranides. A Spider tempered and wrought up with Milt-wast or Ceterach, and so spred upon a cloth to be applyed to the temples, cureth the fits of a Tertian Feaver. Dioscorides. The Spider that is called, a Wolf, be∣ing put into a quill, and so hanged about the neck performeth the same effect, as Pliny reporteth. The domestical Spider, which spinneth and weaveth a thin, a white, or a thick web, being inclosed in a piece of leather, or a Nut-shel, and so hanged about the neck, or worn about the arm, driveth away the fits of a Quartain Feaver, as both Dioscorides and Fernelus have thought. For the pain in the ears, Take three live Spiders, boyl them with Oyl upon the fire, then distil or drop a little of this Oyl into the pained ear, for it is very excellent, as witnesseth Marcellus Empiricus. Pliny steepeth them in Vinegar and Oyl of Roses, and so to be stamped together, and a little thereof to be dropped into the pained ear with a little Saffron, and without doubt, saith he, the pain will be mitigated, and the same affirm∣eth Dioscorides. Or else strain out the juyce of Spiders, mixing it with the juyce of Roses, and with some wooll dipped in the same liquor, apply it to the ear.

Sorastus in his Book peri Dakeon writeth, how that the Spider which is called Cranocalaptes, being stifled or choked in Oyl, is a very present help against any poison taken inwardly into the body, as the Scholiast of Nicander reporteth. There be some that catch a Spider in the left hand, and beat and stamp it with the Oyl of Roses, putting some of it into the ear, on the same side the tooth aketh, and as Pliny telleth us, it doth exceeding much good. Spiders applyed and laid upon their own bitings, or taken inwardly into the body, do heal and help those hurts themselves pro∣cured.

What should I talke of the white spots of the eyes, a most dangerous grief? and yet are they clean taken away with very small labour, if so be one take the legs, especially of those Spiders which are of the whiter sort, and stamping them together with Oyl, do make an Ointment for the eys. Pliny. The moist juyce that is squeesed out of a house Spider, being tempered with Oyl of Roses, or one dram of Saffron, and a drop or two thereof dropped into the eyes, cureth the dropping or water∣ing of them, by means of a rhume issuing out thereat: or else the moisture of a Spider or his urine be∣ing taken by themselves, laying a little wooll on the top of the part affected, worketh the same effect; whereby you may well understand, that there is nothing in a Spider so vile, homely, or sor∣didous, that doth not some good, and serveth to some end.

Against the suffocation of the belly, Aetius doth counsel to apply a Cerote to the navel made of Spiders, and saith that he hath found it to prevail much in this kinde of passion. Pliny saith, but he yeeldeth no reason for it, that Spiders help the pain and swelling of the Spleen. He writeth also fur∣ther, that if a man catch a Spider, as she is gliding and descending downwards by her thread, and so being crushed in the hand, and then applyed to the navel, that the belly wil be provoked to the stool, but being taken as she is ascending, and applyed after the same former manner, that any loosenesse or flux is stayed, and restrained thereby. The same Pliny also writeth, that if a man take a Spider, and lay it upon a Fellon, (provided that the sick patient may not know so much,) that within the space only of three days, that terrible and painful grief will be clean taken away. And besides he affirmeth that if the head and feet of a Spider be cast away, and the rest of the body rubbed and bruised, that it will throughly remedy the swelling in the fundament, proceeding of inflamation.

If any be vexed with store of Lice, and do use a suffumigation made only with Spiders, it will cause them all to fall and come away, neither will there afterwards any moe breed in that place. The fat of a Goose tempered and mixed with a Spider and Oyl of Roses together, being used as an Oint∣ment upon the breasts, preserveth them safely, as that no milk will coagulate or curdle in them after any birth. Anonymus. Yea, that same knotty scourge of rich men, and the scorn of Physitians, I mean the Gowt, which as some learned men hold can by no means be remedied, yet feeleth mitigati∣on and diminution of pain, and curation also, only by the presence of a Spider, if it be taken alive, and her hinder-legs cut off, and afterward inclosed in a purse made of the hide of a Stag. Moreover, we see, (which all other medicines can never do) that all they are freed for the most part, both from the Gowt in the legs and hands, where the Spiders are most found, and where they are most busie in working, and framing their ingenious devised webs. Doubtlesse, this is a rare miracle of nature, and a wonderful vertue, that is in this contemptible little creature, or rather esteemed to be so vile, ab∣ject, and of no estimation. Rich men were happy indeed, if they knew how to make use of their own good.

Antonius Pius was wont to say, that the sharp words, witty sayings, quirks and subtilties of Sophi∣sters, were like unto Spiders webs, that contain in them much cunning Art, and artificial conceit,

but had little other good besides. If any one be newly and dangerously wounded, and that the mise∣rable party feareth a bleeding to death, what is a more noble medicine, or more ready at hand, then a thick Spiders web, to binde hard upon the wound, to stay the inordinate effusion of bloud? Que∣stionlesse, if we were as diligent and greedy to search out the true properties and vertues of our own domestical remedies, which we would buy of others so dearly, we would not enforce our selves with such eager pursuit after those of forain Countries, as though things fetcht far off, were better then our own neer at hand; or as though nothing were good and wholesome, unlesse it came from Egypt, Arabia, or India. Surely, unlesse there were some wilde worm in our brains, or that we were bewitched and possessed with some fury, we would not so far be in love with forein wares, or be so much besotted, as to seek for greedy new physick and Physical means, considering that one poor Spiders web will do more good, for the stanching of bloud, the curation of ulcers, the hindering of fanies, slime, or slough to grow in any sore, to abate and quench any inflamations, to conglutinate and consolidate wounds, more then a Cart-load of Bole fetcht out of Armenia, Sarcocolla, Sandaracha, or that earth which is so much nobilitated by the impresse of a seal, and therefore called Terra Sigil∣lata, the clay of Samos, the dirt of Germany, or the loam of Lemnos. For a cobweb adstringeth, refri∣gerateth, soldereth, joyneth, and closeth up wounds, not suffering any rotten or filthy matter to remain long in them.

And in regard of these excellent vertues and qualities, it quickly cureth bleeding at the nose, the Haemorrhoids, and other Bloudy-fluxes, whether of the opening of the mouths of the veins, their opertions, breakings, or any other bloudy evacuation that too much aboundeth, being either given by it self alone in some Wine, either inwardly or outwardly, or commixed with the Bloud-stone, Crocus Martis, and other the like remedies fit for the same intentions.

The cobweb is also an ingredient into an unguent which is made by Physitians, against the disease called Serpego, and being bound to the swellings of the fundament, if there be inflamation joyned withall, it consumeth them without any pain, as Marcellus Empiricus testifieth. It likewise cureth the watering or dropping of the eyes, as Pliny reporteth, and being applyed with Oyl, it consolidateth the wounds of the joints: and some for the same intent, use the ashes of cobwebs, with fine meal and white Wine mixed together.

Some Chirurgeons there be that cure Warts in this manner; They take a Spiders web, rolling the same up on a round heap like a ball, and laying it upon the Wart they then set fire on it, and so burn it to ashes, and by this way and order the Warts are eradicated, that they never after grow again. Marcellus Empiricus taketh Spiders webs that are found in the Cypresse tree, mixing them with other convenient remedies, so giving them to a podagrical person for the asswaging of his pain. Against the pain of a hollow tooth, Galen in his first Book De Compos: medicam. secundum loca, much commend∣eth, (by testimony of Archigenes) the Egges of Spiders, being tempered and mixed with Oleum Nar∣dinum, and so a little of it being put into the tooth. In like sort Kiramides giveth Spiders egges for the curation of a Tertian Ague. Whereupon we conclude with Galen, in his Book to Piso, that Na∣ture as yet never brought forth any thing so vile, mean, and contemptible in outward shew, but that it hath manifold and most excellent and necessary uses, if we would shew a greater diligence, and not be so squeamish as to refuse those wholesome medicines which are easie to be had, and without great charges and travail acquired.

I will add therefore this one note before I end this discourse, that Apes, Marmosets or Monkies, the Serpents called Lizards, the Stellion, which is likewise a venomous Beast like unto a Lizard, having spots in his neck like unto stars. Wasps, and the little beast called Ichneumon, Swallows, Sparrows, the little Titmouse, and Hedge-sparrows, do often feed full favourly upon Spiders. Besides, if the Nightingale, (the Prince of all singing Birds) do eat any Spiders, she is clean freed and healed of all diseases whatsoever.

In the days of Alexander the Great, there dwelled in the City of Alexandria a certain young maid, which from her youth up, was fed and nourished only with eating of Spiders, and for the same cause the King was premonished not to come neer her, lest peradventure he might be infected by her poy∣sonous breath, or by the venom evaporated by her sweating. Albertus likewise hath recorded in his writings, that there was a certain noble young Virgin dwelling at Colen in Germany, who from her ten∣der years was fed only with Spiders. And thus much we English men have known, that there was one Henry Lilgrave, living not many years since, being Clerk of the Kitchen to the right Noble Am∣brose Dudley Earl of Warwick, who would search every corner for Spiders, and if a man had brought him thirty or forty at one time, he would have eaten them all up very greedily, such was his desirous longing after them.

Of the STELLION.

THey are much deceived that confound the green Lizard, or any other vulgar Lizard, for be∣cause the Stellion hath a ru〈…〉〈…〉 colour: and yet (as Matthiolus writeth) seeing Aristotle hath left recorded, that there are venomous Stellions in Italy, he thinketh that the little white Beast with stars on the back, found about the City of Rome, in the walls and ruines of old houses, and is there called Tarantula, is the Stellion of which he speaketh, and there it liveth upon Spiders. Yet that there is ano∣ther and more noble kinde of Stellion, 〈…〉〈…〉iently so called of the learned, shall afterward appear in the succeeding discourse.

This Beast or Serpent is called by the Grecians, Colottes, Ascalobtes, and Galeotes, and such a one was that which Aristophanes faigneth from the side of a house eased her belly into the mouth of Socrates as he gaped, when in a Moon-shine night he observed the course of the stars, and motion of the Moon. The reason of this Greek name Ascalabotes, is taken from Ascalos, a circle, because it appeareth on the back full of such circles like stars, as writeth Perottus. Howbeit, that seemeth to be a faigned Etymo∣logie, and therefore I rather take it, that Ascala signifieth impurity, and that by reason of the un∣cleannesse of this beast, it was called Ascalabates, or as Suidas deriveth it, of Colobates, because by the help and dexterity of the fingers, it climbeth up the walls even as Rats and Mice; or as Kiramides will have it, from Calos, signifying a piece of wood, because it climbeth upon wood and trees. And for the same reason it is called Galeotes, because it climbeth like a Weasil, but at this day it is vulgarly called among the Grecians, Liakoni; although some are also of opinion, that it is also known among them by the words Thamiamithos, and Psammamythe.

[illustration]

Among the vulgar Hebrews, it is sometimes called Letaah, and sometimes Semmamit, as Munster writeth. The Arabians call it Sarnabraus, and Senabras, a Stellion of the Gardens. And peradventure Guarill, Guasemabras, Alurel, and Gnases. And Sylvaticus also useth Epithets for a Stellion. And the general Arabian word for such creeping biting things, is Vasga, which is also rendered a Dragon of the house. In stead of Colotes, Albertus hath Arcolus. The Germans, English, and French, have no words for this Serpent, except the Latine word, and therefore I was justly constrained to call it a Stellion, in imitation of the Latine word.

As I have shewed some difference about the name, so it now ensueth that I should do the like about the nature and place of their abode. First of all therefore I must put a difference betwixt the Italian Stellion or Tarentula, and the Thracian or Grecian, for the stellion of the Ancients is proper to Grecia. For they say this Stellion is full of Lentile spots, or speckles, making a sharp or shrill shrieking noise, and is good to be eaten, but the other in Italy are not so. Also they say in Sicilia, that their Stellions inflict a deadly biting, but those in Italy cause no great harm by their teeth. They are covered with a skin like a shell or thick bark, and about their backs there are many little shining spots like eyes, (from whence they have their names) streaming like stars, or drops of bright and clear water, according to this verse of Ovid;

—Aptumque colori Nomen habet variis Stellatus corpora guttis.

Which may be Englished thus;

And like his spotted hiew, so is his name, The body starred over like drops of rain.

It moveth but slowly, the back and tail being much broader then is the back and tail of a Lizard, but the Italian Tarentulaes are white, and in quantity like the smallest Lizards: and the other Grecian Lizards, (called at this day among them Haconi) is of bright silver colour, and are very harmful and angry, whereas the other are not so, but so meek and gentle, as a man may put his fingers into the mouth of it without danger. One reason of their white bright shining colour, is because they want bloud, and therefore it was an error in Sylvaticus to say that they had bloud.

The teeth of this Serpent are very small and crooked, and whensoever they bite, they stick fast in the wound, and are not pulled forth again except with violence. The tail is not very long, and yet when by any chance it is broken, bitten, or cut off, then it groweth again. They live in houses, and neer unto the dores and windows thereof make their lodgings, and sometims in dead-mens graves and Sepulchres, but most commonly they climbe and creep aloft, so as they fall down again; sometimes into the meat as it is in dressing; and sometimes into other things, (as we have already said) into Socrates mouth, and when they descend of their own accord, they creep side-long, They eat Honey, and for that cause creep into the Hives of Bees, except they be very carefully stopped, as Virgil writeth;

Nam saepe favos, ignotus adedit Stellio.

Many times the Stellion at unawares meeteth with the Honey-combs. They also of Italy many times eat Spiders. They all lie hid four months of the year, in which time they eat nothing, and twice in the year, that is to say, both in the Spring time and Autumn, they cast their skin, which they greedily eat so soon as they have stripped it off. Which Theophrastus and other Authors write, is an envious part in this Serpent or creeping creature, because they understand that it is a noble remedy against the Falling-sicknesse: wherefore to keep men from the benefit and good which might come thereby, they speedily devour it.

And from this envious and subtile part of the Stellion, cometh the crime in Ʋlpianus called Cri∣men Stellionatus, that is, when one man fraudulently preventeth another of his money, or wares, or bargain, even as the Stellion doth man kinde of the remedy which cometh unto them by and from his skin.

The crime is also called Extortion, and among the Romans, when the Tribunes did withdraw from the Souldiers their provision of victual and corn, it is said, Tribunes qui per Stellaturas Militibus aliquid abstulissent, capitali poena affecit. And therefore Budeus relateth a History of two Tribunes, who for this stellature were worthily stoned to death by the commandment of the Emperor. And all frauds whatsoever, are likewise taxed by this name, which were not punishable but by the doom of the Supream or highest Judge, and thereupon Alciatus made this Emblem following.

Parva lacerta, atris Stellatus corpare guttis Stellio, qui latebras & cava busta colit, Invidiae pravique doli fert symbola, pictus: He•• nimium nuribus cognita Zelotypis. Nam turpi obtegitur faciem lentigine, quisquis Sit quibus immersus Stellio, vina bibat. Hinc vindicta frequens, decepta pellice vino, Quam forma amisso flore relinquit amans.

Which may be Englished thus;

The little Lizard, on Stellion starred in body grain In seoret holes, and graves of dead which doth remain, When painted you it see, or drawn before the eye, A symbole then you view of deep deceit and cursed envy: Alas, this is a thing to jealous wives known too well, For whosoever of that Wine doth drink his fill Wherein a Stellion bath been drencht to death, His face with filthy Lentile spots all ugly it appeareth, Herewith a Lover oft requites the fraud of concubine, Depriving her of beauties biew by draught of this sam•• Wine.

The Poet Ovid hath a pretty fiction of the Original of this cursed envy in Stellions, for he wri∣teth of one Abas the son of Motaneira, that received Ceres kindely into her house, and gave her hospi∣tality, whereat the said Abas being displeased, derided the sacrifice which his mother made to Cores; the Goddesse seeing the wretched nature of the young man, and his extream impiety against the sacrifice of his Mother, took the Wine left in the goblet after the sacrifice, and poured the same upon his head, whereupon he was immediately turned into a Stellion, as it is thus related by Ovil. Metam. 5.

Combibit ••s maculas, & quae mode brachia gessit Crura gerit, cauda est mutatis addita membris: Inque brevem formam, ne sit vis magna nocendi, Contrahitur, parvaque minor mensura lacerta est.

In English thus;

His ••cuah suckt in those spots: and now where arms did stand, His legs appear, and to his changed parts was put a tail, And lest it should have power to harm, small was the bodies band, And of the Lizards poysonous, this least in shape did vail.

Their bodies are very brittle, so as if at any time they chance to fall, they break their tails. They lay very small egges, out of which they are generated: and Pliny writeth, that the juyce or liquor of these egges laid upon a mans body, causeth the hair to fall off, and also never more permitteth it to grow again. But whereas we have said, it devoureth the skin, to the damage and hurt of men, you must remember, that in ancient time the people did not want their policies and devises to take away this skin from them before they could eat it. And therefore in the Summer time they watched the lodging place and hole of the Lizard, and then in the end of the Winter toward the Spring, they took Reeds and did cleave them in sunder, these they composed into little Cabinets, and set them upon the hole of the Serpent: Now when it awaked and would come forth, it being grieved with the thicknesse and straightnesse of his skin, presseth out of his hole through those Reeds or Ca∣binet, and finding the same somewhat straight, is the more glad to take it for a remedy; so by lit∣tle and little it slideth through, and being through, it leaveth the skin behinde in the Cabinet, into the which it cannot re-enter to devour it. Thus is this wily Serpent by the policy of man justly beguiled, losing that which it so greatly desireth to possesse, and changing nature, to line his guts with his coat, is prevented from that gluttony, it being sufficient to have had it for a cover

in the Winter, and therefore unsufferable that it should make food thereof, and eat the same in the Summer,

These Stellions (like as other Serpents) have also their enemies in nature, as first of all they are hated by the Asses, for they love to be about the Mangers and racks on which the Asse feedeth, and from thence many times they creep into the Asses open Nostrils, and by that means hinder his eating. But above all other, there is greatest antipathy in nature betwixt this Serpent and the Scorpion, for if a Scorpion do but see one of these, it falleth into a deep fear, and a cold sweat, out of which it is delivered again very speedily: and for this cause a Stellion putrified in Oyl, is a notable remedy against the biting of a Scorpion; and the like war and dissension, is affirmed to be betwixt the Stel∣lion and the Spider.

We have shewed already, the difference of Stellions of Italy from them of Greece, how these are of * 1.300 a deadly poysonous nature, and the other innocent and harmlesse, and therefore now it is also con∣venient, that we should shew the nature and cure of this poyson, which is in this manner;

Whensoever any man is bitten by a Stellion, he hath ach and pain thereof continually, and the wound received looketh very pale in colour, the cure whereof, according to the saying of Aetius, is to make a plaister of Garlick and Leeks mixed together, or else to eat the said Garlick and Leeks, drinking after them a good draught of sweet Wine, unmixed and very pure, or else apply Nigella Ro∣mana Sesamyne, and sweet Water unto it. Some (as Arnoldus writeth) prescribe for this cure the dung of a Faulcon, or a Scorpion to be bruised all to pieces, and laid to the wound. But sometimes it happeneth, that a mans meat or drink is corrupted with Stellions that fall into the same from some high place where they desire to be climbing, and then if the same Meat or Wine so corrupted be eaten or drunk, it causeth unto the party a continual vomiting and pain in the stomach. Then must the cure be made also by vomits to avoid the poyson, and by Glysters to open the lower passage, that so there may be no stop or stay, to keep the imprisoned meat or drink in the body. And principally those things are prescribed in this case, which are before expressed in the Cantharides, when a man hath by any accident been poysoned by eating of them.

The remedies which are observed out of this Serpent are these: Being eaten by Hawks, they make them quickly to cast their old coats or feathers. Others give it in meat after it is bowelled, to them that have the Falling-sicknesse. Also when the head, feet, and bowels are taken away, it is * 1.301 profitable for those persons which cannot hold in their urine; and being sodden, is given against the Bloudy-flux. Also sod in Wine with black Poppy-seed, cureth the pain of the loins, if the Wine be * 1.302 drunk up by the sick patient.

The Oyl of Stellions being anointed upon the arm-holes or pits of children, or young persons, it restraineth all hair for ever growing in those places. Also the Oyl of Stellions, which are sod in Oyl-olive with Lizards, do cure all boils and wens, consuming them without lancing or breaking. And the ashes of the Stellion are most principally commended against the Falling-sicknesse, like as also is the skin or trunck, as we have said before. The head burned and dryed, and afterward mixed with Honey-attick, is very good against the continual dropping or running of the eyes; and in the days of Pliny, he writeth that they mixed Stibium herewithal. The heart is of so great force, that it being eaten, bringeth a most deep and dangerous sleep, as may appear by these verses:

Mande cor, & tantus prosternet corpora somnus, Ʋt scindi possunt absque dolore manus.

Which may be Englished thus;

Eat you the heart, and then such sleep the body will possesse, That hands may from the same be cut away painlesse.

To conclude, the Physitians have carefully observed sundry medicines out of the egges, gall, and dung of Stellions, but because I write for the benefit of the English Reader, I will spare their relati∣on, seeing we shall not need to fear the bitings of Stellions in England, or expect any drugs among our A pothecaries out of them, and therefore I will here end the History of the Stellion.

Of the TYRE.

THere be some which have confounded this Serpent with the Viper, and taken them both to be * 1.303 but one kinde, or at least the Tyre to be a kinde of Viper, because the Arabians call a Viper Thiron, of the Greek word Therion, which signifieth a wilde beast, and whatsoever the Grecians write * 1.304 of their Echidna, that is their Viper, the same things the Arabians write of the Tyre, and Leonice∣nus compiled a whole Book in the defence of that matter: and from hence cometh that noble name or composition antidotary, called Theriaca, that is, Triacle. But Avicen in the mention of the Tria∣cle * 1.305 of Andromachus, distinguisheth the Triacle of the Viper, from that of the Tyre, and calleth one of them Trohiscos Tyri, and the other Trohiscos Viperae. So Gentilis and Florentinus do likewise put a ma∣nifest difference betwixt the Tyre and the Viper, although in many they are alike, and agree to∣gether.

This Tyre is called in Latine Tyrus and Tyria, and also among the Arabians, as Sylvaticus writeth, Eosmari, and Alpfahex. Rabbi Moses in his Aphorisms writeth, that when the Hunters go to seek

these Serpents, they carry with them bread, which they cast unto them, and while the Tyre doth eat it, he closeth his mouth so fast, that his teeth cannot suddenly open again to do his hunting adversa∣ry any harm, and this thing (as he writeth) is very admirable at the first, to them that are ignorant of the secret in nature. Galen also writeth so much to Piso of Vipers, and he saith that the Circula∣tors, Juglers or Quacksalvers, did cast certain mazes or small cakes to them, which when they had tasted, they had no power to harm any body.

This Tyrus is said to be a Serpent about the coasts of Jericho in the Wildernesse, where it hunt∣eth Birds, and liveth by devouring of them and their egs. And a confection of the flesh of this Serpent, with the admixture of some few other things, taketh away all intoxicate poyson, which confection is called Triacle. It is also reported, that whereas the Dragons have no poyson of them∣selves, they take it away from this Serpent, and so poyson with a borrowed venom. For this poy∣son is very deadly: and there is a tale (which I will not tell for truth) that before the coming and death of our Saviour Jesus Christ, the same was unremediable, and they dyed thereof, whosoever they were that had been poysoned by a Tyre; but on the day of Christ his passion, one of them was found by chance in Jerusalem, which was taken alive, and brought to the side of our Saviour hanging up on the Crosse, where it also fastened the teeth, and from that time ever since, all the kinde have received a qualified and remediable poyson, and also their flesh made apt to cure it self, or other venoms.

It is reported that when the Tyrus is old, he casteth, or rather wresteth off his coat in this manner following; First it getteth off the skin which groweth betwixt the eyes, by which it looketh as if it were blinde; and if it be strange to a man, (I mean the first time that ever he saw it) he will verily take it to be blinde: afterward, it also fleyeth off the skin from the head, and so at last by little and little, the whole body, at which sight it appeareth as though it were an Embryon, or skinlesse Serpent. They keep their egs in their belly, and in them breed their young ones, as the Vipers do, for before they come out of the dams belly, they are in all parts (according to their kinde) perfect crea∣tures, and so every one generateth his like, as do four-footed Beasts.

I take it by the relation of Gesner, that the Dipsas in Italy is called Tyrus. Also Cardan writeth, that there is a supposed and false conceit, that with the flesh of this Tyre, mixed with Hellebore and wa∣ter, is made a confection to restore youth: but the truth is, it rather weakeneth and destroyeth bo∣dies, then helpeth them, and maketh a counterfeit or varnished false youth, but no true youth at all. Thus far Cardan, and thus much of this Serpent, the other things written of it, are the same that are written of the Viper.

Of the TORTOISE.

THe last four-footed Egge-breeding Beast, cometh now to be handled in due order and place; namely, the Tortoise, which I have thought good to insert also in this place, although I cannot finde by reading or experience, that it is venomous, yet seeing other before me have ranged the same in the number and catalogue of these Serpents and creeping creatures, I will also follow them; and therefore I will first expresse that of the Tortoise, which is general and common to both kindes, and then that which is special, and proper to the Land and Sea Tortoises.

The name of this Beast is not certain, among the Hebrews some call it Schabhul, some Kipod, and some Homet; whereas every one of these do also signifie another thing, as Schabhul, a Snail; Kipod, a Hedge-hog; and Homet, a Lizard. The Chaldeans call this Beast Thiblela; the Arabians term it Sise∣mat, also Kau••en salabhafe, and Halachalie; the Italians call this Testuma, testudine, veltestugire, tartuca, ••nsuruma, tartocha, & coforona. And in Ferraria, Gallanae, tartugellae, biscae, scutellariae; the Inhabitants of Taurinum, Cupparia; the Portugals, Gagado; the Spaniards, Galapago, and Tartuga; the French, Tortue, and Tartue; and in Savoy, Boug coupe; the Germans, Schiltkrot, and Tallerkrot; the Flemings, Schilt∣padde, which answereth our English word Shell-crab; the Grecians call it Chelone; and the Latines, Te∣studo: which words in their several languages, have other significations, as are to be found in every vocabular Dictionary, and thefore I omit them, as not pertinent to this businesse or History.

There be of Tortoises three kindes, one that liveth on the land, the second in the sweet waters, and the third in the Sea, or salt waters. There are found great store of these in India, especially of the Water-tortoises, and therefore the people of that part of the Countrey are called Chelonophagi; that is, Eaters of Tortoises, for they live upon them: and these people are said to be in the East∣part of India. And in Carmania the people are likewise so called. And they do not only eat the flesh of them, but also cover their houses with their shells, and of their abundance, do make them all manner of vessels. Pliny and Solinus write, that the Sea-tortoises of India are so big, that with one of them they cover a dwelling Cottage. And Strabo saith, they also row in them on the waters, as in a Boat.

The Island of Serapis in the Red-sea, and the farthest Ocean Islands, toward, the East of the Red-sea, hath also very great Tortoises in it: and every where in the Red-sea they so abound, that the people there do take them and carry them to their greatest Marts and Fairs to sell them, as to Raphtis, to Ptolemais, and the Island of Dioscorides, whereof some have white and small shells. In Lybia also they are found, and in the night time they come out of their lodgings to feed, but very softly, so as one can scarcely perceive their motion.

And of one of these Scaliger telleth this story. One night (saith he) as I was travelling, being overtaken with darknesse and want of light, I cast about mine eyes to seek some place for my lodg∣ing, safe and secure from wilde Beasts; and as I looked about, I saw (as I thought) a little hill or heap of earth, but in truth it was a Tortoise, covered all over with mosse: upon that I ascended and sate down to rest, whereupon after a little watching I fell asleep, and so ended that nights rest upon the back of the Tortoise. In the morning, when light approached, I perceived that I was removed far from the place, whereon I first chose to lodge all night; and therefore rising up, I beheld with great admiration the sace and countenance of this Beast, in the knowledge whereof, (as in a new nature) I went forward, much comforted in my wearisome journey.

[illustration]

The description of the Tortoise and several parts thereof now followeth to be handled. Those creatures (saith Pliny) which bring forth or lay egs, either have feathers as Fowls, or have scales as Serpents, or thick hides as the Scorpion, or else a shell like the Tortoise. It is not without great cause that this shell is called Scutum, and the Beast Scutellaria, for there is no buckler and shield so hard and strong as this is. And Palladius was not deceived when he wrote thereof, that upon the same might safely passe over a Cart-wheel, the Cart being loaded. And therefore in this the Tortoise is more happy then the Crocodile, or any other such Beast.

Albertus writeth that it hath two shels, one upon the back, the other on the belly, which are con∣joyned together in four places, and by reason of this so firm a cover and shell, the flesh thereof is dry and firm, also long lasting, and not very easie or apt to putrefaction. This shell or cover is smooth, except sometimes when it is grown old, it hath mosse upon it, and it never casteth his coat in old age, as other creeping things do. In the head and tail it resembleth a Serpent, and the great Tortoises have also shells upon their heads like a shield, yet is the head but short, and the aspect of it very fearful, until a man be well acquainted therewith. And by reason of the hardnesse of their eyes, they move none but the neather eye-lid, and that without often winking. The liver of it is great, yet without any bloud. It hath but one belly without division, and the liver is always foul, by reason of the vitious temperature of the body. The milt is exceeding small, coming far short of the bodies proportion.

Beside, the common nature of other thick-hided creatures. It hath also reins, except that kinde of Tortoise called Lutaria, for that wanteth both reins and bladder; for by reason of the softnesse of the cover thereof the humor is over-fluent; but the Tortoise that bringeth forth egs hath all inward parts like a perfect creature: and the females have a singular passage for their excre∣ments, which is not in the males. The egs are in the body of the belly, which are of a party-colour like the egs of Birds.

Their stones cleave to their loins, and the tail is short, but like the tail of a Serpent.

They have four legs, in proportion like the legs of Lizards, every foot having five fingers or di∣visions upon them, with nails upon every one. And thus much for the several parts.

They are not unjustly called Amphibia, because they live both in the water and on the land, and in this thing they are by Pliny resembled to Beavers: but this must be understood of the gene∣ral, otherwise the Tortoises of the land do never dare come into the water: and those of the water can breath in the water, but want respiration, and likewise they lay their Egges and sleep upon the d••y land. They have a very slow and easie pace; and thereupon Pauvius calleth it Tardi∣grada, and also there is a Proverb, Testudineus incessus for a slow and soft pace, when such a mo∣tion is to be expressed. The Tortoise never casteth his coat, no not in his old age. The voyce is an abrupt and broken hissing, not like to the Serpents, but much more loud and diffused. The male is very salacious and given to carnal copulation, but the female is not so; for when she is attempted by the male, they fight it out by the teeth, and at last the male overcometh, where∣at he rejoyceth as much as one that in a hard conflict, fight, or battail, hath won a fair Woman; the reason of this unwillingnesse is, because it is exceeding painful to the female. They engender by riding or covering one another. When they have laid their Egges, they do not sit upon them to hatch them, but lay them in the Earth, covered, and there by the heat of the Sun is the young one formed, and cometh forth at due time without any further help from his Pa∣rents.

They are accounted crafty and subtle in their kinde, for subtlenesse is not only ascribed to things that have a thin bloud, but also to those that have thick skins, hides, and covers, such as the Tor∣toise and Crocodile have. The Tortoise is an enemy to the Partridge, as Philes and Aellanus write: Also the Ape is as fraid thereof, as it is of the Snail: and to conclude, whatsoever enemy it hath, it is safe enough as long as it is covered with his shell, and clingeth fast to the earth beneath; and therefore came the proverb, Oikos philos, oikos aristos. That house which is ones friend, is the best house.

The Poets give a fabulous reason, why the Tortoise doth ever carry his house upon his back, which is this: They say, that on a time Jupiter bad all living creatures to a banquet or Marriage feast, and thither they all came at the time appointed, except the Tortoise: and she at last also appeared at the end of the feast when the meat was all spent: whereat Jupiter wondered, and asked her why she came no sooner? Then it answered him, Oikos philos, oikos aristos; at which answer Jupiter being an∣gry, adjudged her perpetually to carry her house on her back, and for this cause they fable, that the Tortoise is never separated from her house.

Flaminius the Roman disswading the Achaeans from attempting the Island of Zacynthus, used this ar∣gument; and so afterward T. Livius. Caeterum sicut Testudinem, ubi collecta in suum tegumen est, tutam ad omnes ictus vidi esse: ubi exerit partes aliquas, quodcunque nudavit, obnoxium atque infirmum habere: Haud dissimiliter vobis Achaei, clausis undique maris, quod intra Peloponnesum est, termino, ea & jungere vobis, & juncta tueri facile: si semel aviditate plura amplectendi hinc excedatis, nuda vobis omnia quae extra sint & exposita ad omnes ictus esse. Thus far Pliny. That is to say, Even as when the Tortoise is gathered within the compasse of her shell, then is it safe and free from all stroaks, and feeleth no violence, but whenso∣ever she putteth forth a limb or part, then is it naked, infirm, and easie to be harmed: so is it with you Achaeans, for by reason of the inclosed seat of Peloponnesus within the Straights of the Sea, you may well winde all that together, and being conjoyned, as well defend it: But if once your avi∣dous and covetous mindes to get more, appear and stretch it self beyond those limits, you shall lay open your naked infirmity and weaknesse, to all force, blows, and violence whatsoever. Wherefore the Tortoise careth not for flies, and men with good armour care not much for light and easie ad∣versaries.

Alciatus hath a witty Emblem of a Tortoise to expresse a good huswife, and that the fame of her vertues, spreadeth much further then either beauty or riches.

Alma Venus, quaenam haec facies? quid denotat illa Testudo, molli quam pede diva premis? Me sic effinxit Phidias, sexumque referri Foemineum nostra jussit ab effigie, Quod{que} manere domi, & tacitas debet esse puellas, Supposuit pedibus talia signa meis.

Which may be Englished thus;

Loves holy God, what means that ugly face? What doth that Tortoise signifie indeed, Which thou ô God ••desse under soft foot dost pace? Declare what means the same to me with speed: Such is the shape that Phidias did me frame, And bade me go resemble Womankinde, Te teach them silence, and in house remain, Such pictures underneath my feet you finde.

There is a manifold use of Tortoises, especially of their cover or shell, and likewise of their flesh, which cometh now to be handled. And first of all, the ancient ornaments of Beds, Chambers, Tables, and Banquetting houses, was a kinde of artificial work, called Carvilius, and this was framed in gold and silver, brasse and wood, Ivory and Tortoise-shels; but, Modo luxuria non fuerit content a lig∣no, jam lignum emi testudinem facit: That is to say, Ryot not contented, sought precious frames of wood; and again, the use of wood caused Tortoise-shells to be deerly bought, and thereof also complained the Poet Juvenal, where he saith;

—Nemo curabat Rivalis in Oceani fluctu testudo nataret Clarum Trojugenis factura & nobile fulorum.

In English thus;

Then none did care for Tortoise in the Ocean flood, To make the noble beds for Trojans bloud.

We have shewed already that there are certain people of the East called Chelophagi, which live by eating of Tortoises, and with their shells they cover their houses, make all their vessels, row in them upon the water, as men use to row in boats, and make them likewise serve for many other uses.

But as concerning the eating of the flesh of Tortoises, the first that ever we read that used this ill diet, were the Amazons, according as Coelius Rhod: and other Authors writeth. Besides, Aloysius Cadamustus affirmeth, that he himself did tast of the flesh of a Tortoise, and that it was white in colour, much like unto Veal, and not unpleasant. But Rasis is of a clean contrary opinion, condemning it for very unsavory, and unwholesome, because the taste and temperament thereof is betwixt the Land and the Water, it being a Beast that liveth in both Elements. And in eating hereof the Greci∣ans have a proverb, Chelones kreas he phagein, he me phagein: That is, either eat Tortoise flesh, or eat it not. Meaning that when we eat it, we must eat nothing else, and therefore must be filled suffici∣ently only with that kinde of meat; For to eat little, breedeth fretting in the belly, and to eat much is as good as a purgation, according to the observation of many actions, which being done frigide & ignoviter, that is, coldly and slothfully to halfs, do no good, but being done acriter & ••xplicate, earnestly and throughly bring much content and happinesse.

But I marvail why they are used in this age, or desired by Meat-mongers, seeing Apicius in all his Book of Variety of Meats, doth not mention them; and I therefore will conclude the eating of Tor∣toises to be dangerous, and hateful to Nature it self, for unlesse it be taken like a Medicine, it doth little good, and then also the Sawces and decoctions or compositions that are confected with it, are such as do not only qualifie, but utterly alter all the nature of them, (as Stephanus Aquaeus hath well declared in his French discourse of Frogs and Tortoises.) And therefore to conclude this History of the Tortoise, I will but recite one riddle of the strangenesse of this Beast which Tertullian out of Pa∣cuvius maketh mention of, and also in Greek by Mascopulus, which is thus translated.

Animal peregrinae naturae, sine spiritu spiro, geminis oculis retro juxta cerebrum, quibus ducibus antrorsum progredior. Super ventre coeruleo pergo, sub quo venter latet albus, apertus & clausus. Oculi non aperiuntur, ne{que} progredior, donec venter intus albus vacuus est. Hoc s••turato, oculi apparent insignes, & pergoaditer: Et quanquam mutum varias edo voces: That is to say, I am a living creature, of a strange nature, I breath with∣out breath, with two eye behinde, neer my brains do I go forward, I go upon a blew belly, under which is also another white, open and shut, my eyes never open, I go forward until my belly be empty, when it is full, then they appear plain and I go on my journey, and although I am mute or dumb, yet do I make many voyces. The explica∣tion of this riddle, will shew the whole nature of the Beast, and of the Harp called Chelys. For some things are related herein of the living creature, and some things again of an Instrument of Musick made upon his shell and cover. And thus much for the Tortoise in general, the Medicines I will re∣serve unto the end of this History.

Of the TORTOISE of the Earth, whose shell is only figured.

THese Tortoises which never

[illustration]

come in water, either sweet or Salt, clear or muddy, are called by Grecians, Chelone Chersaie; by the La∣tines, Chersinae, and Testudines, Terre∣sires, Sylvestres, and Montanae; and by Nicander, Orine; and the French pecu∣liarly Tortue des Boys, a Tortoise of the wood.

These are found in the Desarts of Africa, as in Lybia and Mauritania, in * 1.306 the open fields, and likewise in Lydia in the Corn-fields, for when the Plough-men come to plough their land, their shares turn them out of the earth upon the furrows as big as great Glebes of land. And the shels of these the Husbandmen burn on the land, and dig them out with Spades and Mattocks, even as they do Worms among places full of such vermine.

The Hill Parthenius, and Soron in Arcadia, do yeeld many of these land Tortoises. The shell of this living Creature is very pleasantly distinguished with divers colours, as earthy, black, blewish, and almost like a Salamanders. The liver of it is small, yet apt to be blown or swell with with winde, and in all other parts they differ not from the common and vulgar general prefixed description.

These live in Corn-fields, upon such fruits as they can finde; and therefore also they may be kept in Chests or Gardens, and fed with Apples, Meal, or Bread without Leaven. They eat also * 1.307 Cockles, and Worms of the earth, and Three-leaved-grasse. They will also eat Vipers, but presently

after they eat Origan, for that herb is an antidote against Viperine poyson for them, and unlesse they can instantly finde it, they die of the poyson. The like use it is said to have of Rue, but the Tortoises of the sandy Sea in Africk live upon the fat, dew, and moistnesse of those Sands. They are ingendered like other of their kinde, and the males are more venereous then the females, because the female must needs be turned upon her back, and she cannot rise again without help: wherefore many times the male after his lust is satisfied, goeth away, and leaveth the poor female to be destroy∣ed of Kites, or other adversaries: their natural wisdom therefore hath taught them to prefer life and safety before lust and pleasure. Yet Theocritus writeth of a certain herb, that the male Tortoise getteth into his mouth, and at the time of lust turneth the same to his female, who presently upon the smell thereof, is more enraged for copulation then is the male, and so giveth up her self to his pleasure without all fear of evil, or providence against future danger: but this herb neither he nor any other can name. They lay Egges in the earth, and do not hatch them, except they breath on them with their mouth, out of which at due time come their young ones. All the Winter time they dig themselves into the earth, and there live without eating any thing, insomuch as a man would think they could never live again, but in the Summer and warm weather they dig themselves out again without danger.

The Tortoises of India in their old and full age change their shells and covers, but all other in the World never change or cast them. This Tortoise of the earth is an enemy to Vipers, and other Serpents, and the Eagles again are enemies to this, not so much for hatred as desirous thereof for Physick, against their sicknesses and diseases of nature; and therefore they are called in Greek Che∣lonophagoi aeloi, Tortoise-eating Eagles: for although they cannot come by them out of their deep and hard shells, yet they take them up into the air, and so ••et them fall down upon some hard stone or Rock, and thereupon it is broken all to peeces, and by this means dyed the famous Poet Aeschylus, which kinde of fate was foretold him, that such a day he should die: wherefore to avoid his end, in a fair Sun-shine clear day he sate in the fields, and suddenly an Eagle let a Tortoise fall down upon his head which brake his skull, and crushed out his brains, whereupon the Grecians wrote:

Aeschulo graphonti, epipeptoke Chelone.

Which may be Englished thus;

Eschylus writing upon a rock, A Tortoise falling, his brains out knock.

The use of this land Tortoise, are first for Gardens, because they clear the Gardens from Snails and Worms: out of the Arcadian Tortoises they make Harps, for their shells are very great, and this kinde of Harp is called in Latine Testudo, the inventer whereof is said to be Mercury, for finding a Tortoise after the falling in of the River Nilus, whose flesh was dryed up, because it was left upon the Rocks, he struck the sinews thereof, which by the force of his hand made a musical sound, and thereupon he framed it into a Harp, which caused other to imitate his action, and continue that unto this day.

These Tortoises are better meat then the Sea or Water Tortoises: and therefore they are prefer∣red for the belly; especially they are given to Horses, for by them they are raised in flesh, and made much fatter. And thus much shall suffice for the Tortoise of the earth.

Of the TORTOISE of the Sweet-water.

PLiny maketh four kindes of Tortoises, one of the Earth, a second of the Sea, a third called Lu∣taria, and the fourth called Swyda, living in Sweet-waters, and this is called by the Portugals, Ca∣gado; and Gagado; the Spaniards, Galopag; and the Italians, Gaiandre de aqua. There are of this kinde found in Helvetia, neer to Zurick, at a Town called Andelfinge: but the greatest are found in the Ri∣ver Ganges in India, where their shells are as great as tuns, and Damascen writeth, that he saw cer∣tain Embassadours of India, present unto Augustus Caesar at Antiochia, a Sweet-water Tortoise, which was three cubits broad. They breed their young ones in Nilus. They have but a small Milt, and it wanteth both a bladder and reins. They breed their young ones and lay their Egges on the dry land, for in the water they die without respiration: therefore they dig a hole in the earth wherein they lay their Egges, as it were in a great ditch, of the quantity of a Barrel, and having covered them with earth, depart away from them for thirty days; afterwards they come again and uncover their Egs, which they finde formed into young ones, those they take away with them into the water: and these Tortoises at the inundation of Nilus follow the Crocodiles, and remove their nests and egges from the violence of the flouds.

There was a magical and superstitious use of these Sweet-water Tortoises against Hail, for if a man * 1.308 take one of these in his right hand, and carry it with the belly upward round about his Vineyard, and so returning in the same manner with it, and afterward lay it upon the back, so as it cannot turn on the belly, but remain with the face upward, all manner of Clowds should passe over that place and never empty themselves upon that Vineyard. But such Diabolical and foolish observations were * 1.309 not so much as to be remembred in this place, were it not for their sillinesse, that by knowing

them, men might learn the weaknesse of humane wisdom when it erreth, from the Fountain of all science and true knowledge (which is Divinity) and the most approved operations of Nature: And so I will say no more in this place of the Sweet-water Tortoise.

Of the TORTOISE of the Sea.

IT were unproper and exorbitant to handle the Sea-tortoise in this place, were it not because it liveth in both elements, that is, both the water and the land, wherefore seeing the Earth is the place of his generation, as the Sea is of his food and nourishment, it shall not be amisse nor impro∣per (I trust) to handle this also among the Serpents and creeping things of the earth.

Pliny calleth this Sea-tortoise Mus Marinus, a Mouse of the Sea, and after him Albertus doth so likewise. The Arabians call it Asfulhasch; and the Portugals, Tartaruga; and in Germany, Mee••schiltkrott, which the common Fisher-men call the Souldier, because his back seemeth to be armed and covered with a shield and helmet, especially on the fore-part: which shield is very thick, strong, and trian∣gular, there being great veins and sinews which go out of his neck, shoulders, and hips, that tie on and fasten the same to his body.

His fore-feet being like hands, are forked and twisted very strong, and with which it fighteth and taketh his prey, and nothing can presse it to death except the frequent strokes of Hammers. And in all their members except their quantity, and their feet, they are much like the Tortoises of the earth, for otherwise they are greater, and are also black in colour. They pull in their heads as oc∣casion is ministred to them, either to fight, feed, or be defended, and their whole shell or cover seemeth to be compounded of fine Plates. They have no teeth, but in the brims of their beaks or or snouts are certain eminent divided things like teeth, very sharp, and shut upon the under lip like as the cover of a Box, and in the confidence of the sharp prickles, and the strength of their hands and backs, they are not afraid to fight with men.

Their eyes are most clear and splendent, casting their beams far and near, and also they are of white colour, so that for their brightnesse and rare whitenesse, the Apples are taken out and included in Rings, Chains, and Bracelets. They have reins which cleave to their backs, as the Reins of a Bugle or Ox. Their feet are not apt to be used in going, for they are like to the feet of Seals or Sea-calves, serving in stead of Oars to swim withall. Their legs are very long, and stronger in their feet and nails, then are the claws of the Lion.

They live in Rocks and the Sea-sands, and yet they cannot live altogether in the water, or on the * 1.310 land, because they want breathing and sleep, both which they perform out of the Water: yet Pliny wri∣teth, that many times they sleep on the top of the water, and his reason is, because they lie still un∣moveable, (except with the Water) and snort like any other Creature that sleepeth, but the contra∣ry appeareth, seeing they are found to sleep on the land, and the snorting noise they make is but an endeavour to breath, which they cannot well do on the top of the water, and yet better there then in the bottom.

They feed in the night-time, and the mouth is the strongest of all other Creatures, for with it * 1.311 they they crush in pieces any thing, be it never so hard, as a stone or such things: they also come and eat grasse on the dry land. They eat certain little Fishes in the Winter time, at which season their mouth is hardest, and with these Fishes they are also baited by men, and so taken. Pausanias writeth, that in Africa that there are Maritine Rocks called Scelestae, and there dwelleth among a creature called Scynon, that is Zytyron, a Tortoise, and whatsoever he findeth on those Rocks which is stranger in the Sea, the same he taketh and casteth down headlong. They engender on the Land, and * 1.312 the female resisteth the copulation with the male, until he set against her a stalk or stem of some tree or plant. They lay their Egs and cover them in the earth, planing it over with their breasts, and in the night-time they sit upon them to hatch them. Their Egs are great, of divers colours••, having a hard shell, so that the young one is not framed or brought forth within lesse compasse then a year, (as Aristotle writeth) but Pliny saith thirty days.

And for as much as they cannot by Nature, nor dare for accident long tarry upon the land: they set certain marks with their feet upon the place where they lay their Egs, whereby they know the place again, and are never deceived. Some again say, that after they have hid their Egs in the earth forty days, the female cometh the just fortieth day, not failing of her reckoning, and uncovereth * 1.313 her Egs wherein she findeth her young ones formed, which she taketh out as joyfully as any man would do Gold out of the earth, and carryeth them away with her to the water. They lay sometimes an hundred Egs, and sometimes they lay fewer, but ever the number is very great.

There is upon the left side of Hispaniola, a little Island upon the Port Beata, which is called Altus Bellus, where Peter Martyr reporteth strange things of many creatures; especially of the Tortoises, for he writeth, that when they rage in lust for copulation, they come on shore, and there they dig a ditch wherein they lay together three or four hundred Egs, being as great as Goose Egs, and when they have made an end, they cover them with sand and go away to the Sea, not once looking after them: but at the appointed time of Nature, by the heat of the Sun, the young Tortoises are hatched, engendered, and produced into light without any further help of their parents.

Great is the courage of one of these, for it is not afraid to set upon three men together, but if it can be turned upward upon the back, it is made weak and unresistible. And if the head be cut

off and severed from the body, it dieth not presently, nor closeth the eyes, for if a man shake his hand * 1.314 at it, then will it wink, but if he put it neer, it will also bite if it can reach it. If by the heat of the Sun their backs grow dry, they also grow weak and inflexible, and therefore they hasten to the water to remollifie them, or else they die within short time: and for this cause this is the best way to take them, In the hottest day they are drawn into the deep, where they swim willingly with their backs or shells above the water, where they take breath, and in continuance, the Sun so hardeneth them, that they are not able to help themselves in the water, but they grow very faint and weak, and are taken at the pleasure of the Fisherman.

They are also taken on the tops of the water after they return weary from their feeding in the night-time, for then two men may easily turn them on their backs, and in the mean while another casteth a Snare upon them and draweth them safely to the land. In the Phaenician Sea they are taken safely without danger, and generally where they may be turned on their back, there they can make no resistance, but where they cannot, many times they would and kill the Fisher-men, breaking the nets asunder, and let out all the other Fish included with them.

Bellonius writeth, that there be of these Sea-tortoises two kindes, one long, the other round, and both of them breath at their Noses, because they want gills, and the long ones are most frequent about the Port Torra in the Red-sea, whose cover is variable, for the males shell is plain and smooth under∣neath, and the females is hollow. The Turks have a kinde of Tortoise, whose shell is bright like the Chrysolite, of which they make hasts for Knives of the greatest price, which they adorn with plates of gold. In Jambolus, an Island of the South, there are also found certain Monsters or living crea∣tures, * 1.315 which are not very great, yet are they admirable in Nature, and in the vertue of their bloud.

Their bodies are round and like the Tortoise, having two crosse lines over their backs, in the ends of which is an eye and an ear at either side, so as they seem to have four ears, the belly is but one, into which the meat passeth out of the mouth. They have feet round about, and with them they go both backward and forward. The vertue of their bloud is affirmed to be admirable: for whatsoever body is cut asunder and put together, if it be sprinckled with this bloud during the time that it breatheth, it couniteth as before.

The ancient Troglodytes had a kinde of Sea-tortoise, which they call Celtium, which had horns un∣to which they fastened the strings of their harps; these also they worshipped and accounted very holy. Yet some think that they might better be called Celetum then Celtium; but I think Hermolaus doth better call them Chelitium apotes Cheluos, which signifieth both a Tortoise and their broad breasts; and with their horns they help themselves in swimming. Albertus also maketh mention of a Tortoise called Barchora, but it is thought to be a corrupt word from Ostra ••odermus. These Sea-Tortoises are found sometimes to be eight cubits broad, and in India with their shells they cover houses, and such use they also put them unto in Taprobana, for they have them fifteen cubits broad. And thus much for all kinde kinde of Tortoises.

Of the VIPER.

[illustration]

NOtwithstanding the asse∣veration of Suessanus, who will needs exclude the Viper from the Serpents, because a Serpent is called Ophis, and the Viper Echis, yet I trust there shall be no reasonable man that can make exception to the placing of this living creature among Serpents; for that great learned man was deceived in that argument, seeing by the same reason he might as well exclude any other, as the Snake, Dragon, Scorpion, and such like, who have their peculiar names, besides the generall word Ophis, and yet might he also have been better advised, then to affirm a Viper not to be called a Serpent: for even in Aristotle whom he expoundeth and approveth, he might have found in his fifth Book of Gen. animal. and the last Chapter, that the Viper is recorded, Inter genera opheon: * 1.316 that is, Amongst the general kindes of Serpents, although as we shall shew afterward, it differeth from most kindes of Serpents, because it breedeth the young one in his belly, and in the Winter time lyeth in the Rocks, and among stones, and not in the earth.

The Hebrews as it appeareth, Esa. 59. and Job 6. call it Aphgnath, and according to Munster Aph∣gnaim plurally for Vipers, because of the variety of colours, wherewithal they are set all over. The

Arabians from the Greek word Thereon, signifying all kinde of wide Beasts, do also call it Thiron, and that kinde of Viper whereof is made the Triacle, they call a Alafafrai, and Alphai: they also call it Eosman, (as Leonicenus writeth.) Beside it is called Alphe, which seemeth to be derived of the Hebre••s, and Af••••, which may likewise be conjectured to arise from the Greek word Ophis. The Greeks call the Male peculiarly and properly Echis, and the Female Echidna, and it is a question whether the vulgar word among the Grecians at this day Ochendra, do not also signifie this kinde of Serpent. Bellonius thinketh, that it is corrupted of Echidna the female Viper. The Germans have many words for a Vi∣per, as Brandt Schla••gen, Natet-otter, Heck nater, and Viper-nater. The French, une Vipere; the Spa∣niards, Bivora, and Bicha; the Italians, Vipera, Maraesso, Scurtio, and sometimes Scorzonei, although Scorzo, and Scorzone, be general words in Italy for all creeping Serpents without feet, and that strike with their teeth.

There is also about the word Maraeso some question, although Leonicenus decideth the matter, and maketh it out of all Controversie, and Rhodiginus thinketh it a very significant word derived from the people Marsi, because they carryed about Vipers. The Mountebanks do also call Suffili, from Si∣bila, the hissing voyce which it maketh. Some will have Nepa to be also a Viper, yet we have shewed that already to signifie a Scorpion.

The Grecians say, that the Viper is called Echidna, para to echein in eaute ten gonen achri thanaton: be∣cause to her own death she beareth her young one in her belly; and therefore the Latines do also call it Vipera, quasi Vi pariat: because it dyeth by violence of her birth or young: and they attribute unto it venom and pestilence, and generally there are few Epithets which are ascribed to the Ser∣pent, but they also belong unto this. There is a precious stone Echites, (greenish in colour) which seemeth to be like a Viper, and therefore taketh name from it. Also an herb Echite, like Scammony, and Echidmon or Viperina. In Cyrene there are Mice, which from the similitude of Vipers are called Echenatae. Ech••on was the name of a man, and ••ch••onidae and Echionii, of people; and Echidnon a City beside the Sea Aegeum: Also the Eagle which by the Poets is faigned to eat the heart of P••ome••heus, is likewise by them said to be begotten betwixt Typhon and Echidna, and the same Echidna to be also the Mother of Chimaera: which from the Navel upward was like a Virgin, and downward like a Vi∣per, of which also Diodorus Siculus, and Herodotus telleth this story:

When Hercules was driving away the Oxen of Geryon▪ he came into Scythia, and there fell asleep, leaving his Mares feeding on his right hand in his Chariot, and so it happened by divine accident, that whiles he slept they were removed out of his sight and strayed away from him. Afterward he awaked, and missing them, sought all over the Countrey for them; at last he came unto a certain place, where in a Cave he found a Virgin of a double natured proportion, in one part resembling a Maid, and in the other a Serpent, whereat he wondered much, but she told him, that if he would lie with her in carnal copulation, she would shew him where his Mares and Chariot were: where∣unto he consented, and begat upon her three Sons, famous among Poetical Writers: Namely, Aga∣thyrsus, Gelonus, and Scythus: but I will not prosecute either the names, or these fables any fur∣ther, and so I will proceed to the description of Vipers. The colour of Vipers is somewhat yel∣lowish, having upon their skin many round spots, their length about a cubit, or at the most three palms. The tail curled, at the end very small and sharp, but not falling into that proportion equally by even attenuation, growing by little and little, but unevenly sharped on the sudden from thick∣nesse to thinnesse. It is also without flesh, consisting of skin and bone, and very sharp. The head is very broad, compared with the body, and the neck much narrower then the head: the eyes very red and flaming, the belly winding, upon which it goeth all in length, even to the tail, and it goeth quickly and nimbly: some affirm that it hath two canine teeth, and some four, And there is some dif∣ference betwixt the male and female; the female hath a broader head; the neck is not so eminent, a shorter and thicker body, a more extended tail, and a softer pace, and four canine teeth. Again, the male hath a narrower head, a neck swelling or standing up, a longer and thinner body, and a swifter pace or motion, so that in the Pictures proposed in this discourse: the first of them are for the male, and the last for the female & this is the peculiar outward difference betwixt the male and the female Vipers. Avicen saith besides, that the tails of Vipers make a noise when they go or move. Those are * 1.317 taken to be the most generous and lively, that have the broadest and hollowest head like a Turbot, quick and lively eyes, two canine teeth, and a gristle or claw in the nose or tail; a short body or tail, a pale colour, a swift motion, and bearing the head upward. For the further description of their se∣veral parts. Their teeth are very long upon the upper chap, and in number upon either side four, and those which are upon the neather gum are so small, as they can scarce be discerned, until they be rubbed and pressed; but also it is to be noted, that while they live, or when they be dead, the length of their teeth cannot appear, except you take from them a little bladder, in which they lie concealed. In that bladder they carry poyson, which they infuse into the wound they make with their teeth: they have no ears, yet all other living creatures that generate their like, and bring forth out of their bellies have ears, except this, the Sea-calf, and the Dolphin, yet in stead hereof, they have a certain gristly cave or hollownesse in the same place where ears should stand. The womb and place of conception (saith Pliny) is double, but the meaning is, that it is cloven as it is in all females, (especially Women and Cows.) They conceive Egges, and those Egges are contained neer their reins or loins. Their skin is soft, yeelding also to any stroke; and when it is fley∣ed off from the body, it stretcheth twice so big as it appeared while it covered the living Serpent: To conclude, Phyliologus writeth, that their face is somewhat like the face of a man, and from the

Navel it resembleth a Crocodile, by reason of the small passage it hath for his egestion which excee∣deth not the eye of a Needle. It conceiveth at the mouth. And thus much for the description in general.

There is some difference among this kind also, according to the distinction of place wherein they live, for the Vipers in Aethiopia are all over black like the men, and in othes Countreys they differ in colour, as in England, France, Italy, Greece, Asia, and Aegypt, as writeth Bellonius. There is scarce any Nation in the World wherein there are not found some Vipers. The people of Amyctae which * 1.318 were of the Grecian bloud, drove away all kind of Serpents from among them, yet they had Vipers which did bite mortally; and therefore could never be cured, being shorter then all other kinds of Vipers in the World.

Likewise in Arabia, in Syagrus, the sweet Promontory of Frankincense, the Europaean Mountaines, Seiron, Pannonia, Aselenus, Corax, and Riphaeus: the Mountaines of Asta, Aegages, Bucarteron, and Cer∣caphus, abound with Vipers. Likewise Aegypt, and in all Africa they are found also, and the Africans affirm, (in detestation hereof) that it is not so much Animal, as Malum naturae: that is, A living Creature, as evill of Nature: To conclude, they are found in all Europe. Some have taken exceptions to Crete, because Aristotle writeth, that they are not found there, but Bellonius affirmeth, that in Crete also he saw Vipers which the Inhabitants call by the name of Cheudra, which seemeth to be derived from the Greek Echidna. At this day it is doubted whether they live in Italy, Germany, or England, for if they doe, they are not knowne by that name: yet I verily think that we have in England a kinde of yellow Adder which is the Viper that Bellonius saw here, for I my selfe have killed of them, not knowing at that time the difference or similitude of Serpents, but since I have perceived to my best remembrance that the proportion and voyce of it did shew that it was a Viper. The most dif∣ferent kinds of Vipers are found in Aegypt and Asia.

Concerning the quantity, that is the length and greatnesse of this Serpent, there is some difference, for some affirme it to be of a cubit in length, and some more, some lesse. The Vipers in Europe are very small, in comparison of them in Africa, for among the Troglodytes (as writeth Aelianus) they are fifteen cubits long, and Nearchus affirmeth as much of the Indian Vipers; Aristobulus also writeth of a Viper that he saw one, which was nine cubits long, and one hand breadth: & some again (as Strabo) affirm, that they have seen Vipers of sixteen Cubits long, and Nicander writeth thus of the Vipers of Asia;

Fert Asia ultra tres longis qui tractibus ulnas Se tendant, rigidum quales Bucarteron, atque Arduus Aegagus, & celsus Cercaphus intra Se multos refovet.

In English thus;

Such as Asia yeelds in length, as are three elles, In Bucarteron steepy rough, these Vipers flourish, Hard Egagus and high Cercaphus cels, Within their compasse many such do nourish.

Others there be in Asia sixteen foot long, and some there beagain twenty, as in the Golden Castiglia, where their heads are like the heads of Kids. There be some that make difference be∣twixt Echis and Echidna, because one of them when it biteth, causeth a convulsion, and so doth not the other, and one of them maketh the wound look white, the other pale, and when the Echis biteth * 1.319 you shall see but the impression of two teeth, and when the Echidna biteth you shall see the impression of more teeth. But these differences are very idle, for the variety of the pain may arise from the constitution of the body, or the quantity of the poyson, and so likewise * 1.320 of the colour of the wound, and it is already set down, that the Echis or Male Viper hath but two Canine teeth, but the other, namely, the Echidna hath four: thus saith Nicander;

Masculus emittit, notus color, ipse caninos Binos perpetuo monstrat, sed foemina plures.

Which may be englished thus;

The Male two canine teeth, whose colour well is known, But in the Female more continually are shown.

But yet the Male hath beside his Canine teeth, as many as hath the Female: and besides the Male is known from the Female, as the same Nicander writeth, because the Female when she goeth, draweth her tail as though she were lame, but the Male more manlike and nimble, holdeth up his head, stretcheth out his tail, restraineth the breath of his belly, setteth not up his Scales (as doeth the Female;) and besides, draweth out his body at length.

The Meate of these Vipers are green Hearbes, and also sometimes living Creatures: and namely, * 1.321 Hore-flies, Cantharides, Pithiocampes, and such other things as they can come by, for these are fit and convenient meat for them. Aristotle writeth, that sometimes also they eat Scorpions, and in Arabia they not onely delight in the sweet juyce of Balsans, but also in the shadow of the same. But above all kinds of drink, they are most insatiable of wine. Sometime they make but little folds, and sometime

greater, but in their wrath their eies flame, they turn their tailes and put forth their double tongue. In the winter-time as we have said already, they live in the hollow Rocks, yet Pliny affirmeth, that * 1.322 then also they enter into the earth, and become tractable and tangible by the hands of man, for in the cold weather they are nothing so fierce as they are in the hot, and in the Sommer also they are not at all times alike furious, but like to all other Serpents. They are most outragious in the Canicular daies, for then they never rest, but with continual disquiet move up and down till they are dead or emptied of their poyson, or feel an abatement of their heat. Twice in the year they cast their * 1.323 skins, that is to say, in the Spring, and in the Autumn: and in the spring time when they come out of their hole or winter lodgings, they help the dimnesse of their eye-sight by rubbing their eyes upon fennel. But concerning their copulation and generation, I find much difference among wri∣ters: wherefore in a matter so necessary to be known, I will first of all set down the opinion of other men, aswell Historians as Poets, and then in the end and conclusion, I will be bold to interpose my * 1.324 own judgment for the better information of the Reader. Herodotus in his Thalia writeth, that when the Vipers begin to rage in lust, and desire to couple one with another, the Male cometh and putteth his head into the mouth of the female, who is so insatiable in the desire of that copulation, that when the male hath filled her with all his seed-genital, and so would draw forth his head again, she biteth it off, and destroyeth her husband, whereby he dieth and never liveth more: but the female departeth and conceiveth her young in her belly, who every day according to natures incli∣nation, grow to perfection and ripenesse, and at last in revenge of their fathers death, do likewise destroy their mother, for they eate out her belly, and by an unnatural issue come forth into the light of this world: and this thing is also thus witnessed by Nicander;

Cum durum fugiens morsu ignescentis echidnae Frendit echis, vel ubi fervente libidinis aestu Saevo dente sui resecat caput illa mariti: Ast ubi post vegetam ceperunt pignora vitam, Jam propinqua adsunt maturi tempora partus, Indignam chari mortem ulciscentia patris, Erosa miserae nascuntur matris ab alvo.

In English thus;

When the male Viper gnasheth, avoyding females bite, Whose fiery rage is all on ardent lust, Yet when he burnes for copulation right, Her cruel tooth doth Husbandhead off crush. But yet alasse, when seeds begins to live, And birth of young ones ripen in her womb, Then they for Fathers death a full revenge d•• give, Eating forth their wretched mothres strong.

Vnto this agreeth Galen, Isidore, Plutarch, Aelianus: and Lucan who writeth;

Viperei coeunt abrupto corpore nati

That is to say:

The geniture of Vipers blood Engender, breaking bodies good.

Pliny agreeth with the residue for the death of the Male in carnal copulation, but he differeth in this, about the Female, affirming that when the young Vipers grow ripe and perfect in their Mo∣thers belly, she casteth forth every day one for three daies together, (for her number is sometimes twenty) at last the other, impatient of delay, gnaw out her guts and belly, and so come forth, de∣stroying their mother: And here is no great difference, for in the sum and destruction of Father and Mother they all agree, and Saint Jerom, Saint Basill, and Horus do agree and subscribe to the truth of these opinions. Thus we have shewed the opinions of the Ancient and first Writers: now it followeth that we should likewise shew the opinions of the latter Writers, which I will performe with as great brevity and perspicuity as I can. Pierius therefore writeth, that in his time there were Learned men desirous to know the truth, who got Vipers, and kept them alive, both Males and Females, by shutting them up safe where they could neither escape out, nor do harme, and they found that they engendred, brought forth, and conceived like other Creatures, without death or ruine of Male and Female.

Amatus Lusitanus also writeth thus. The Male and Female Viper engender by wreathing their tails together, even to the one half of their body, and the other half standeth upright, mutually kissing one another. In the Male there is a genital member in that part beneath the Navel, where they embrace, which is very secret and hidden, and against the same is the Females place of con∣ception, as may appear manifestly to him that will look after the same; and therefore all the Philosophers and Physitians have been deceived, that have wrote they have conceived at their mouth, or that the Male perished at the time of engendering, or the Female at the time of her delivery. Thus saith Amotus.

Theophrastus he likewise writeth in this manner; The young Vipers do not eate out their way, or open with their teeth their Mothers belly, nor (if I may speak merrily) make open their own passage by breaking up of the doors of their Mothers womb, but the womb being narrow, cannot contain them; and therefore breaketh of it own accord: and this I have proved by experience, even as the same falleth out with the fish called Acus: and therefore I must crave pardon of Herodotus, if I affirm his relation of the generation of Vipers to be meerly fabulous. Thus sar Theophrastus.

Apollonius also writeth, that many have seen the old Vipers licking their young ones like other Serpents.

Thus have I expressed the different judgements of sundry Authors both new and old touching * 1.325 the generation of Vipers, out of which can be collected nothing but evident contradictions, and unreconcileable judgements, one mutually crossing another. So as it is unpossible that they should be both true, and therefore it must be our labour to search out the truth, both in their words, and in the conference of other Authors. Wherefore to begin, thus writeth Aristotle. The Viper amongst other Serpents, almost alone bringeth forth a living creature, but first of all she conceiveth a soft egge of one colour, above the egges lieth the young ones folded up in a thin skin, and some-times it falleth out, that they gnaw in sunder that thin skin, and so come out of their mothers belly all in one day, for she bringeth forth more then twenty at a time.

Out of these words of Arstotle, evilly understood by Pliny and other ancient Writers, came that errour of the young Vipers eating their way out of their mothers belly, for in stead of the little thin skin which Aristotle saith they eat thorough, other Authors have turned it to the belly, which was clean from Aristotles meaning. And another error like unto this, is that wherein they affirm, that the Viper doth every day bring forth one young one, so that if she hath twenty young ones in her belly, then also she must be twenty dayes in bringing of them forth.

The words of Aristotle from whence this error is gathered, are these, Tectei de en mia emera kathon, Tictei de pleo he eikosi, which are thus translated by Gaza, Parit enim singulos diebus singulis, plures quam viginti numero: That is to say, she bringeth forth every day one, more then twenty in number. But this is an absurd translation, and agreeth neither with the words of Aristotle, nor yet with his mind, for his words are these: Parit autem una die singulos, parit autem plus quam viginti numero. That is to say in English, she bringeth forth every one in one day, and she bringeth forth more then twenty: so that the sense of these words shall be; that the Viper bringeth forth her young ones severally, one at a time, but yet all in a day.

But concerning her number, neither the Philosopher, nor yet any man living, is able to define and set it down certain, for they vary, being sometimes more, and sometimes fewer, according to the nature of other living creatures. And although the Viper do conceive egges within her, yet doth she lay them after the manner of other Serpents, but in her body they are turned into living Vipers, and so the egges never see the sun, neither doth any mortal eye behold them, except by accident in the dissection of a female Viper when she is with young. I cannot also approve them that do write, that one, namely the Viper, among all Serpents, bringeth forth her young ones alive, and perfect into the world, for Nicander and Grevinus, do truly affirm, with the constant consent of all other Authors, that the horned Serpent called Cerastes, of which we have spoken al∣ready, doth likewise bring forth her young ones alive. And besides, Herodotus writeth of certain winged-Serpents in Arabia, which do bring forth young ones as well as Vipers, and therefore it must not be concluded with apparent falshood, that onely the Viper bringeth her young ones perfect into the world.

The like fable unto this, is that general conceit of the copulation together, betwixt the Viper and the Lamprey; for it is reported that when the Lamprey burneth in lust for copulation, she for∣saketh the waters, and cometh to the Land, seeking out the lodging of the male Viper, and so joyneth herselfe unto him for copulation. He againe on the other side, is so tickled with desire hereof, that forsaking his own dwelling and his own kind, doth likewise betake himselfe unto the Waters and Rivers sides, where in an amorous manner, he hisseth for the Lamprey, like as when a young man goeth to meet and call his Love; so that these two creatures, living in contrary elements the earth and the water, yet meet together for the fulfilling of their lusts in one bed of fornication. Upon which Saint Basill writeth in this manner: Vipera infestissimum animal eorum quae serpunt cum muraena congreditur, &c. that is to say, the Viper a most pernicious enemy to all living cree∣ping things, yet admitteth copulation with the Lamprey, for he forsaketh the Land, and goeth to the water-side, and there with his hissing voyce, giveth notice to the other of his presence, which she hea∣ring, instantly forsaketh the deep waters, and coming to the Land, fuffereth herself to be imbraced by that venemous beast. Also Nicander writeth thus thereof in his verses.

Fama est, si modo vera, quod haec sua pascua linquat, Atque eat in siccum cogente libidine littus, Et cum Vipereo coiens serpente gravetur,

Which may be englished thus;

Fame saith (if it be true) that she her ••eed forsakes, I mean the shore, and goes upon dry land, Where for her lust the Viper-male she takes, In fleshly coiture to be her husband.

But this opinion is vaine and fantasticall, as Pliny and divers others have very learnedly proved, for the Lamprey cannot live on the Land, nor the Viper in wet places, besides the waters: and therefore, besides the impossibility in nature, it is not reasonable that these will hazard their own lives, by forsaking their own elements for the satisfaction of their lusts, there being plenty of either kinds to work upon, that is to say, both of female Vipers in the Land, to couple with the male, and male Lampreys in the water, to couple with the female.

Although I have else-where confuted this error, yet I must here again remember that which is said already. The occasion of this fable is this; the male Lamprey is exceeding like a Viper, for they want feet, and have long bodies, which some one by chance seeing in copulation with his female, did rashly judge it to be a Serpent because of his likenesse, as afore-said; and therefore they devised a name for it, calling it Myrus, which some have made a kind of Viper, and others a Snake: but Andreas hath notably proved against Archelaus, that this Myrus neither is nor can be any other then the male Lamprey: and so I will conclude, that neither Vipers ingender with Lampreys, nor yet the female Vipers kill the male in copulation, or that the young ones come into the world by the destruction of their dams.

In the next place we are to consider, the antipathy and contrariety that it observeth with other creatures, and the amity also betwixt it and others. First of all therefore it is certain and well * 1.326 known, what great enmity is betwixt man-kind and Vipers, for the one alwaies hateth and feareth the other: wherefore, if a man take a Viper by the neck, and spit in his mouth, if the spittle slide down into his belly, it dieth thereof, and rotteth as it were in a consumption. Vipers also are enemies to Oxen, as Virgill writeth, Pestis acerba bonum pecorique aspergere virus: that is, a sharp plague of Oxen, casting his poyson upon all other Cattel. They are also enemies to Hens and Geese, as Columella writeth, wherefore in ancient time they were wont to make sure walls for the custody of their pullen against Vipers. They are likewise enemies to the Dormouse, and they hunt very gree∣dily after their young ones, whereof Epiphanius in a discourse against Origen writeth thus; When the Viper cometh to the nest of a Dormouse, and findeth there her young ones, she putteth out all their eies, and afterwards feedeth them very fat, yet killeth every day one, as occasion of hun∣ger serveth; but if in the mean time a man, or any other creature do chance to eate of those Dor∣mice, * 1.327 whose eies are so put out by the Viper, they are poysoned thereby. And this is a wonderfull work in nature, that neither the little Dormice receive harme by the poyson, but grow fat there∣by, nor yet the Viper be poysoned herself while she eateth them, and yet a man or beast which is a stranger unto it, dieth thereof.

All kind of Mice are as much afraid of Vipers, as they be of Cats, and therefore whensoever they heare the hissing of a Viper, instantly they look to themselves and their young ones. There is a kind of harmelesse Serpents called Parea, whereof I have spoken before in his proper place, which is an enemy unto Vipers, and that same which is harmlesse unto men, killeth them. Albertus also telleth a story of a Viper that climbed up into a tree, to the nest of a Magpye, where-upon the old one was sitting, this poore Pye did fight with the Viper, untill the Viper took her fast by the thigh, so as she could fight no more, yet she ceased not to chatter and cry out to her fellowes to come and help her, whereupon the male Pye came, and seeing his female so griped by the Viper, he ceased not to peck upon his head untill the braines came out, and so the Viper fell down dead. This story is also alledged by Cardan.

The Scorpions and the Vipers are enemies one to another, for at Padua a Viper and a Scorpion (for the trial of this matter) were both included in a vial, where they continued fighting a little while, but at last they both died by one anothers poyson. The Tortoyse of the earth is also an enemy to the Viper, and the Viper to it, wherefore if it can get Origan, or wild-Savory, or Rue, it eateth thereof, and then is nothing afraid to fight with the Viper, but if the Tortoyse can find * 1.328 none of these, then they die incontinently by the poyson of the Viper, and of this there hath been triall, as both Aristotle and other Authors affirm.

And as there is this contratiety betwixt Vipers and other living creatures, so there is betwixt them and Plants of the earth, and this blessing God in nature hath bestowed upon many beasts, that when they feel themselves to be hurt by one herb, they know another to cure them; as for exam∣ple, Garlick is poyson to the Viper, and therefore having tasted thereof she dieth, except she eat some Rue. A Viper being strook with a Reede once, it amazeth her, and maketh her senselesse, but being stook the second time, she recovereth and runneth away: and the like is reported of the Beech-tree, saving that it stayeth the viper, and she is not able to go from it. But most marvailous is the antipathy betwixt the Viper and the Yew-tree, for it is reported by Mercuriall, that if you lay fire on the one side, and a peece of Yew on the other side, and then place a viper in the middle betwixt them both, she will rather chuse to runne thorow the fire, then to go over the branches of Yew.

The Viper is also afraid of Mustard-seed, for it beeing laid in her path, she flieth from it, and if she taste of it, she dieth. There is an herbe called Arum, if the hands or body of a man be anointed * 1.329 with the juyce of the root thereof, the viper will never bite him; the like is reported of the juyce of Dragons, expressed out of the leaves, fruit or root. It is also said, that if a viper do behold a good Smaradge, her eyes will melt and fall out of her head. But above all other plants in the world, the Viper is most delighted with Vetches, and the Savyne tree, for in Italy (as Cardan wri∣teth) * 1.330 there was once seen a great number of Vipers about a Savyne Tree, and many of them did climbe up and down upon that Tree.

There is no love betweene this Serpent and other creatures, save onely to his own kind, and there∣fore there are two things memorable in the nature of this savage Serpent, the one is the love of the male to the female, and the other of the female to her young ones. It is reported by Saint Ambrose and Saint Basill, that when the male misseth the female, he seeketh her out very diligently, and with a pleasing and flattering noyse, calleth for her, and when he perceiveth she approcheth, he casteth

up all his venome, as it were in reverence of matrimonial dignity. The female on the other side, maketh much of her young ones, licking and adorning their skins, fighting for them unto death, both against men and beasts. For this occasion and some medicinal uses, the Arabians counted Vipers holy Serpents, for by reason (as we have said already) that the Vipers do haunt the Bal∣som-trees, whereof there be plenty in that countrey, they hold them for holy keepers of that pre∣cious fruite; wherefore they never kill them, but at the time of year when the Balsom is ripe, they come unto the trees bearing in their hands two woodden rules, which they smite one against another, by the noise whereof the Vipers are terrified and driven away, and so the Trees are freed for the Inhabitants to take the fruite thereof at their pleasure.

Now forasmuch as we read that Porus King of India sent many great Vipers for a gift unto Augu∣stus, it is profitable to expresse the meanes whereby Vipers are safely taken without doing any harme. Wherefore Aristotle writeth, that they are very much desirous of Wine, and for that cause the Country-people set little vessels of wine in the hedges and haunts of Vipers, whereunto the Vipers coming, easily drink themselves tame, and so the Hunters come and kill them, or else so take them, as they are without danger of harm. Pliny reporteth, that in ancient time, the Mar∣sians in Lybia did hunt Vipers, and never received harm of them, for by a secret and innate vertue, all Vipers and serpents are afraid of their bodies, as we have already shewed in other places. Yet Galen in his discourse to Piso, writeth that the Marsians in his time had no such vertue in them, as he had often tried, save onely that they used a deceit or sleight to beguile the people, which was in this manner following.

Long after the usual time of hunting Vipers, they use to goe abroad to take them, when there is no courage nor scant any venom left in them, for the Vipers are then easily taken if they can be found: and them so taken, they accustome to their own bodies, by given them such meats as doth evacuate all their poison, or at the least-wise doth so stop up their teeth, as it maketh the harm very small; and so the simple people being ignorant of this fraud, and seeing them apparently carrying Vipers about them, did ignorantly attribute a vertue to their natures, which in truth did not be∣long unto them. In like manner there were (as hath already in another place been said) certain Iug∣lers in Italy, which did boast themselves to be of the linage of Saint Paul, who did so deceitfully car∣ry themselves, that in the presence and sight of many people, they suffered Vipers to bite them with∣out any manner of harm.

Others again when they had taken a Viper, did drown her head in mans spittle, by vertue where∣of the Viper began to grow tame and meek. Besides this, they made a certain oyntment which they set forth to sale, affirming it to have a vertue against the biting of Vipers, and all other Serpents, which oyntment was made in this manner. Out of the oyl of the seed of Wild-radish, of the roots of Dragons, the juyce of Daffadil, the brain of a Hare, leaves of Sage, Sprigs of Bay, and a few such other things, whereby they deceived the people, and got much money: and therefore to conclude, I cannot find any more excellent way for the taking and destroying of Vipers then that which is already expressed in the general discourse of Serpents.

We do read that in Egypt they eat Vipers and divers other Serpents, with no more difficulty then they would do Eeles, so do many people both in the Eastern and western parts of the New-found∣lands. And the very self-same thing is reported of the Inhabitants of the Mountaine Athos, the which meat they prepare and dresse on this manner. First they cut off their heads and also their tailes, then they bowel them and salt them, after which they seethe them or bake them, as a man would seethe or bake Eeles, but sometimes they hang them up and dry them, and then when they take them down again, they eat them with Oyl, Salt, Anyseedes, Leeks and water, with some such other observations. Whose diet of eating Vipers I do much pity, if the want of other food constrain them thereunto; but if it arise from the insatiable and greedy intemperancy of their own appetites. I judge them eager of dainties, which adventure for it at such a market of poyson.

Now it followeth that we proceed to the handling of that part of the Vipers story, which con∣cerneth the venom or poison that is in it, which must begin at the consideration of temperament of this Serpent. It is some question among the learned, whether a Viper be hot or cold; and for an∣swer hereof it is said, that it is of cold constitution, because it lieth hid, and almost dead in the Winter-time, wherein a man may carry them in his hands without all hurt or danger: and unto this opinion for this self same reason, agreeth Galen. Mercuriall maketh a treble diversity of con∣stitution among Serpents, whereof the first sort are those that with their wound do infuse a mortal poyson that killeth instantly, and without delay: a second sort are those that kill, but more lea∣surely, without any such speed: and the third are those whose poyson is more slow in operation then is the second, among which he assigneth the Viper. But although by this slowness of opera∣tion he would inforce the coldness of the poyson, yet it is alwaies to be considered, that the dif∣ference of Vipers, and of their venom, ariseth from the place and region in which they are bred, and also from the time of the yeer wherein they bite and wound, so that except they fortune to hurt any one during the time of the Canicular daies, (in which season their poyson is hottest, and themselves most full of spirit) the same is but weak, and full of deadness. And again it is to be con∣sidered, whether the Viper harm in her mood and fury, for anger doth thrust it forth more fully, and causeth the same to work more deadly.

Likewise the Region wherein they live, begetteth a more lively working spirit in the Serpent, and therefore before all other, the Vipers of Numidia are preferred, because of the heat of that Coun∣try. Also their meat causeth in them a difference of poyson, for those that live in the woods and eat Toades, are not so vigorous or venemous, but those that live in the mountaines, and eat the roots of certain herbs, are more poysonful and deadly. And therefore Cardan relateth a story, which he saith was cold him by a Phaenician, that a Mountain-Viper chased a man so hardly, that he was forced to take a tree, unto the which when the Viper was come, and could not climbe up to utter her malice upon the man, she emptied the same upon the Tree, and by and by after, the man in the tree dyed, by the savour and secret operation of the same.

But of the Arabian Vipers which haunt the Balsom-trees, I have read, that if at any time they bite, they onely make a wound like the pricks of yron, voide of poison, because while they suck in the juyce of that tree, the acerbity and strength of the venom is abated. About the Mountain Helicon * 1.331 in Greece, the poison also of Vipers is infirme and not strong, so that the cure thereof is also ready and easie. But yet for the nature of Vipers poison, I can say no more then Wolphius hath said, that it is of it self and in it selfe considered, hot: and his reason is, because he saw a combat in a glasse betwixt a Viper and a Scorpion, and they both perished one by the others poison. Now he saith that it is gran∣ted, the Scorpion to be of a cold nature, and his poison to be cold; therefore by reason of the an∣tipathy whereby one died by the malice of another, it must needs follow that the Viper is hot, and her poison likewise of the same nature. For a Serpent of a cold nature, killeth not another of the same nature, nor a hot Serpent, one of his own kind, but rather it falleth out clean contrary, that the hot kill those that are cold, and the cold Serpents the hotter.

All the Vipers that live neer the waters, are of more mild and meek poison then others. If there be any such, but I rather beleeve there be none, but that the same Author which wrote of the Vipers of the water, did intend Serpents of the water. But coneerning the poison of Vipers, there is no∣thing reported more strange then that of Vincentius Belluacensis, who writeth, that if a man chance to * 1.332 tread upon the reynes of a Viper unawares, it paineth him more then any venome, for it spreadeth it self over all the body incurably. Also it is written, that if a woman with child chance to passe over a Viper, it causeth her to suffer abortment; and the Mushroms or Toade stooles which grow neere the dennes and lodgings of Vipers, are also found to be venemous.

The Scythians also do draw an incurable and unresistable poison out of Vipers, wherewithall they anoint the sharp ends of their darts and arrowes when they goe to warre, to the end that if it chance to light upon their adversary, he may never any more do them harm. They make this poison in this manner. They observed the littering places and time of the Vipers, and then with strength and Art, did take the old and young ones together, which they presently killed, and afterward suf∣fered them to lie and rot, or soake in some moist thing for a season: then they took them and put them into an earthen pot filled with the bloud of some one man; this pot of mans bloud and Vipers they stopped very close, so as nothing might issue out at the mouth, and then buried or covered it all over in a dunghil, where it rotted and consumed a few daies, after which they uncovered it again, and opening it, found at the top a kind of watery substance swimming, that they take off, and mixe it with the rotten matter of the Viper, and hereof make this deadly poison.

We have shewed already, that there is outwardly a difference betwixt the biting wound of the Male and the Female Viper, for after the male hath bitten, there appeareth but two holes, but after the Female hath bitten, there appeareth foure; and this is also a great deal more deadly then is the biting of the male, according to the verses of Nicander where he saith.

Porro ex Vipereo quod noris germine pejor Foemina: quae veluti majori accenditurira, Sic vehemente magis fert noxia vulnera morsu, Et plus gliscenti se cauda & corpore volvit, Vnde citatior haec ictos mors occupat artus.

Which may be englished thus;

But of the Vipers brood the female is the worst, Which as it were, with greater wrath doth burn: And therefore when she bites, makes bodies more ac∣curst Inflickting hurtful wounds, to vehemency turnd. Rowling her bulke and taile more oft about, Whereby a speedier death doth life rid out.

But Avicen is directly contrary to this opinion, and saith, that as the bitings of male Dragons are more exitiall and harmful then are the females, so is it betwixt the biting of the male and female Viper▪ This contrarietie is thus reconciled by Mercuriall, namely, that it is true, that the wounds which the female maketh by her biting, being well considered, is more deadly then the wounds which the male giveth: yet for the proportion of the poison which the male venteth into the wound he maketh, it is more deadly then is the females: so that with respect of quantity: they both say true which affirm either the one or the other. But which soever is the greatest, it skilleth not much, for both are deadly enough, as may appear by the common symptoms and signes which follow, and also death.

Mathiolus reporteth a history of a Country-man, who as he was mowing of grasse, chanced to cut a Viper clean asunder about the middle, or some-what nearer the head, which being done, he stood still, and looked upon the dying dissevered parts a little while, at last, either presuming that it had no power left to hurt, or thinking it was dead, he took that part in his hand where-upon the head was: the angry Viper feeling his adversaries warm hand, turned the head about, and bit

his finger with all the rage, force, and venom that it had left, so that the bloud issued out. The man thus bitten for his boldnesse, did hastily cast it away, and began to suck the wound, putting his hand to his mouth, which when he had done but a little while, he suddenly fell down dead.

The like story unto this, is related by Amatus Lusitanus of another, which more boldly then wise∣ly, did adventure to take a live Viper into his hand upon a wager of money, but as the other, so this paid for his rashnes, for the angry Viper did bite him as did the former, and he sucked his wound as did the Country-man, and in like manner fell down dead.

By both which examples, we may well see the danger of the Vipers poison, so that if once it come into the stomack, and touch the open passage where the vitall parts goe in and out, it never stayeth long but death followeth. Wherefore Aetius saith well, that sometimes it killeth within the space of seven houres, and sometimes again within the space of three daies, and that respite of time seemeth to be the longest, if remedie be not had with more effectual speed.

The signes or effects of the Vipers biting, are briefly these, first there issueth forth a rotten mat∣ter, sometimes blou dy, and sometimes like liquid or molten fatnesse, sometimes again with no colour at all, but all the flesh about the sore swelleth, sometimes having a red, and sometime a pale hiew or colour upon it, issuing also forth a corrupted mattery matter. Also it causeth divers little blisters to arise upon the flesh as though the body were all scorched over with fire, and spee∣dily after this, followeth putrefaction and death.

The pain that cometh by this Serpents wounding, is so universal, that all the body seemeth to be set on fire, many pitiful noyses are forced out of the parties throat by sense of that pain, turning and crackling of the neck, also twinckling and wrying of the eyes, with darknesse and heavinesse of the head, imbecillity of the loynes, sometimes thirsting intolerably, crying out upon his dry throate, and again sometimes freezing at the fingers ends, at least so as he feeleth such a pain. Moreover, the body sweating a sweat more cold then snow it self, and many times vomiting forth the bilious tumors of his owne belly. But the colour going and coming is often changed, now like pale lead, then like black, and anon as green as the rust of brasse, the gums flow with bloud, and the Liver it self falleth to be inflamed, sleepinesse and trembling possesseth the body and seve∣ral parts, and difficulty of making urine, with Feavers, neezing and shortnesse of breath.

These are related by Aetius, Aegineta, Grevinus and others, which work not alwaies in every body generally, but some in one, and some in another, as the humors and temperament of nature doth lead, and guide their operation. But I marvail from whence Plato in his Symposium had that opini∣on, that a man bitten and poisoned by a Viper, will tel it to none, but onely to those that have former∣ly tasted of that misery: for although among other effects of this poison, it is said that madness, or a distracted mind also followeth, yet I think in nature there can be no reason given of Platoes opini∣on, except he mean that the patient will never manifest his grief at all. And this howsoever also is confuted by this one story of Grevinus. There was (as he writeth) a certain Apothecary which did keep Vipers, and it happened one day as he was medling about them, that one of them caught him by his finger, and did bite him a little, so as the prints of his teeth appeared as the points of needles. The Apothecary onely looked on it, and being busied, either forgot, or (as he said af∣terward) felt no pain for an hours space: but after the hour, first his finger smarted and began to burn, and afterward his arm and whole body fell to be suddenly distempered therewith, so as necessity constrayning him, and opportunity offering it self, he sent for a Physitian at hand, and by his good advise. (thorow Gods mercy) was recovered, but with great difficulty; for he suffered many of the former passions and symptoms before he was cured.

Therefore by this story, either Plato was in a wrong opinion, or else Grevinus telleth a fable, which I cannot grant, because he wrote of his own experience, known then to many in the world, who would quickly have contradicted it: or else if he had consented to the opinion of Plato, no doubt but in the relation of that matter, he would have expressed also that circumstance.

Thus then we have, as briefly and plainly as we can, delivered the pains and torments which are caused by the poison of Vipers; now therefore it followeth, that we also briefly declare the vertue of such Medicines, as we find to be applied by diligent and careful observations of many learned Physitians, against the venom of Vipers. First of all they write, that the general rule must be obser∣ved in the curing of the poison of Vipers, which is already declared against other Serpents: namely, that the force of their poison be kept from spreading, and that may be done either by the present extraction of the poison, or else by binding the wounded member hard, or else by cutting it off, if it be in finger, hand or foot.

Galen reporteth, that when he was in Alexandria, there came to the City a Countryman which had his finger bitten by a Viper, but before he came, he had bound his finger close to the palm of his hand, and then he shewed the same to a Physitian, who immediatly cut off his finger, and so he was cured. And besides he telleth of another country-man, who reaping of Corne, by chance with his sickle did hurt a Viper, who returned and did raze all his finger with her poisonfull teeth. The man presently conceiving his own peril, cut off his own finger with the same sickle, before the poi∣son was spred too far, and so was cured without any other Medicine.

Sometime it hapneth that the bite is in such a part that it cannot be cut off, and then they apply a Hen cut in sunder alive, and laid to as hot as can be, also one must first wash and anoint his mouth with oyl, and so suck out the poison. Likewise the place must be scarified, and party fed and dieted with old Butter, and bathed in milk or Seawater, and be kept waking, and made to walk up and down.

It were too long, and also needlesse, to expresse all the medicines which by naturall meanes are prepared against the poison of Vipers, whereof seeing no reasonable man will expect that at my hands; I will onely touch two or three cures by way of history, and for others, refer my Reader to Physitians, or to the Latine discourse of Caronus. In Norcheria, the country of that great and fa∣mous Gentilis who translated Avicen, there is a fountaine, into which if any man be put that is stung * 1.333 or bitten by a Serpent, he is thereof immediatly cured; which Amatus Lusitanus approveth to be very natural, because the continual cold water killeth the hot poison. The same Author writeth, that when a little maid of the age of thirteen yeeres, was bitten in the heel by a Viper, the legge being first of all bound at the knee very hard, then because the maid fell distract, first he caused a Sur∣geon to make two or three deeper holes then the Viper had made, that so the poison might be the more easily extracted, then he scarified the place, and drawed it with cupping-glasses, whereby was exhausted all the black blood, and then also the whole leg over, was scarified, and blood drawn out of it, as long as it would run of it own accord. Then was a plaister made of Garlick, and the sharpest Onions rosted, which being mixed with Triacle, was laid to the bitten place. Also the maid drank three daies of Treacle in wine, and foure houres after a little broth made with Garlick.

The second day after the abatement of the pain, he gave her the juyce of Yew-leaves fasting, which he commendeth as the most notable Antidote in this kind, and so made a second plaister, which lay on three days more, and in the mean time she drank fasting every day that juyce of Yew-leaves, whereby her trembling and distracted estate was abated, but from the wounded place still flowed matter, and it looked black. Then the four next daies, the said matter was drawn out by a linnen cloth, wherein was Goates dung, powder of Lawrell, and Euphorbium in Wine, all mixed together, and afterward he made this ointment, which did perfectly cure her, Rec: of long Ari∣stolochii two ounces, of Briony and Daffadil one ounce, of Galbanum and Myrrhe, of each one ounce, with a convenient quantity of oyle of Baies and Waxe. This applied to the bitten place in a linnen cloth, and tentures twice a day, did perfectly recover her health within a month.

Ambrosius Paraeus cured himselfe, with binding his finger hard that was bitten, and applying to it Triacle dissolved in Aqua vitae, and drunk up in lint or bumbast: and he adviseth in stead of old Tri∣acle, to take Mithridate. Gesner saith, that he saw a maid cured of the eating of Vipers flesh, by being constrained to drink Wine abundantly. Theophrastus and Asclepiades do write, that many are cured by the sound of good Musick, as the like is already shewed, in the cure of the poison of the Phalangium: and no marvail, for Ismenias the Theban affirmeth, that he knew many in Baeotia, that were cured of the Sciatica, by hearing of the musical sound of a good pipe.

Of the Medicines which may be made of the Viper.

THe eating of Vipers is an admirable remedy against the Leprosie. And being prepared after that sort as was mentioned immediatly before in the former Section, they are ministred to the sick person sitting in the sun, yet his head must be well covered or shadowed. Neither indeed to eat Vipers once alone, or twice is sufficient, but it must be done often, sith it is without danger, and moreover bringeth great commodity. And let the Vipers be new, and taken out of moist places, for those which are bred neer the Sea, are very thirsty and dry. The broth also of sod Vipers, is for such persons good supping meat.

The flesh of Vipers is in temperature apparantly hot and dry, and purgeth the whole body by sweat; here-upon many sore tormented with Leprosie, by eating and drinking them have been cured.

Averroes saith, the flesh of Tyrus clenseth Leprosie, because it driveth the matter thereof to the skin, and therefore they that drink it, fall first into the passion of Tyria, that is, the pilling of the skin, and after are cured of it.

Chuse the Vipers of the Mountain, especially being white, and cut off their heads and tailes at once very speedily, and then if the issue of blood be plentiful, and they continue alive, and wallow to and fro a long time, these are good. After their beheading, let them be made clean and sod, and let the diseased party eat of them, and of their broth. * 1.334

And by the drinking of wine wherein a Viper dieth or liveth, certain have been cured accidentally, or by an intent to kill them.

The Leaper must first drink the broth of Vipers decocted, in manner as afore-said, then let him eat the flesh, no otherwise then as mutton or fowles, which daily men dine with, but fasting and in the * 1.335 morning this flesh must be eaten, half a Viper at once, and sometime a whole Viper, according to the strength of the party diseased. After the eating whereof, he must not eat or drink in the space of six houres: but if he doe sweat, it is most expedient that in his sweat he look to himself very care∣fully. And the skin is wont to flea off from the Leaper, as it usually befalleth Serpents.

A man may easily see the flesh of Vipers to be hot and dry, when they are dressed as Eels. And that they purge the whole body thorow the skin, thou mayest learne even by those things, * 1.336 which my self being a young man, had experience of in our Countrey of Asia, which thing severally and in order I shall relate.

A certain man infected with the disease which men call Elephas, that is, Leprosie, for a time conver∣sed still with his companions, till by his company and conversation, some of them were infected with the contagion of the disease, and he now became lothsome to smell, and filthy to sight. Building

therefore a cottage for him neer the Village, on the top of a bank, hard by a Fountain, there they place this man, and daily bring to him so much meat as was sufficient to sustain life. But at the ri∣sing of the Dog-star, when by good hap, Reapers reaped not far from that place, very fragrant Wine was brought for them in an earthen vessel: he that brought it, set it down neer the Reapers, and departed; but when the time was come that they should drink it, a young man taking up the vessel, that according to their manner having filled a boul, he might mingle the Wine with a compe∣tent measure of water, he poured the Wine into the bowl, and together with the Wine fell out a dead Viper.

Wherefore the Reapers amazed thereat, and fearing lest if they drank it, they should receive some harm thereby, chose rather indeed to quench their thirst by drinking water: but when they departed thence, of humanity and in piety, gave the Wine to this Leper, supposing it to be better for him to die, then to live in that misery. Yet he when he had drunk it, in a wonderful manner was re∣stored to his health: for all the scurf of his skin ••ell off as the shales of tender shelled creatures, and that which remained, appeared very tender, as the skin of Crabs or Locusts, when their outward shell is taken away.

Another example by a chance not much unlike, hapned in Mysia, a Countrey of Asia, not far from our City. A certain Leper went to wash himself in Spring-water, hoping thereby to receive some benefit. He had a maid-servant, a very fair young woman, importuned by divers suters: to her the sick man committed both certain other things pertaining to the house, and also the store-house. When they therefore were gone into the room, to which a filthy place and full of Vipers adjoyned, by chance one of them fell into a Vessel of Wine there negligently left, and was drowned. The Maid esteeming that a benefit which Fortune offered, filled that Wine to her Master, and he drank it, and thereby in like sort as he that lived in the Cottage, was cured.

These are two examples of experiment by casual occasion. Moreover, I will adde also a third, which proceeded from our imitation. When one was sick of this disease, in minde more then the common sort Philosophical, and despising death, took it exceeding grievously, and said it were better once to suffer death, then to live so miserable a life: and drinking Wine so mingled with poyson, he became a Leper; and afterward we cured his Leprosie by our accustomed medicines.

Also a fourth man took Vipers alive, but that man had only the beginning of this disease; there∣fore our care and industry was very speedily to restore him to health: wherefore having let him bloud, and by a medicine taken away melancholy, we bad him use the Vipers he had taken, being pre∣pared in a pot after the manner of Eels. And he was thus cured, the infection evaporating through the skin.

Lastly also, a certain other man very rich, not our Country-man, but of the middle of Thracia, admonished by a dream, came to Pergamus, where God commanded him by a dream, that he should daily drink the medicine which was made of Vipers, and outwardly he should anoint his body, and not many days after, his disease became the Leprosie: And again also, this infirmity was afterward cured by the medicines which God commanded.

Matthew Grady fed Chickins and Capons with the broth and flesh of Vipers mingled with bread, * 1.337 till they cast their feathers, purposing by them to cure the Leprosie.

A certain Noble-woman in this City, infected with this malady (••he Leprosie) after divers in∣fortunate * 1.338 attempts of many, came to my hands, in whose cure, when generous medicines availed nothing, at last, with consent of her husband, I purposed to try her with Vipers flesh: whereupon a female Viper being cleansed and prepared after that sort as Galen prescribeth in his Book De The∣riaca, mingling the flesh of the Viper with Galangal, Saffron, &c. I sod her very well: then I took a Chicken, which I commanded well to be sod in the juyce and broth of the Viper. And lest she should take any harm thereby, I first ministred unto her Mithridate, then the Chicken with the broth, by eating whereof she said she felt herself better: Which when I saw, I took another male Viper, whom I sod alone without adding any other thing, and the broth thereof I ministred to her three days, whereupon she began to sweat extreamly, the sweat I restrained by syrup of Violets and pure water. After six days, scales fell from her, and she was healed. Moreover, she soon after conceived a man-childe, having been barren before the space of for∣ty years.

Antonius Musa a Physitian, when he met with an incurable Ulcer, he gave his patients Vipers to * 1.339 eat, and cured them with marvailous celerity. When the servants of Craterus the Physitian fell into a strange and unusual disease, that his flesh fell from his bones, and that he had proved many medi∣cines which profited him nothing, he was healed by eating a Viper dressed as a fish.

Vipers flesh if it be sod and eaten, cleareth the eyes, helpeth the defects of the sinews, and repres∣seth * 1.340 swellings.

They say they that eat Vipers become lousie, which is not so, though Galen affirm it. Some adde * 1.341 them to live long who eat that meat, to wit, Vipers. Isogonus affirmeth the Cirni, a kinde of Indians, to live an hundred and forty years. Also he thinketh the Ethiopians, and Seres, and the Inhabitants of Mount Athos to be long lived, because they eat Vipers flesh.

The Scythians cleave the head of the Viper betwixt the ears, to take out a stone, which they say * 1.342 she devoureth when she is affrighted.

The heads of Vipers burnt in a pot to ashes, and after beaten together with the grossest decoction of bitter Lupines, & spred as an ointment on the temples of the head stayeth the continual rheume of

the eys. Their ashes lightly beaten alone, and applyed as a dry medicine for the eys, greatly amendeth a dim sight.

The head of a Viper kept dry and burned, and after being dipped in Vinegar and applyed, cureth wilde fire. * 1.343

The gall of the Viper doth wonderfully cleanse the eye, and offendeth not by poyson. It is manifest against the stinging of all Serpents though incurable, that the bowels of the very Serpents * 1.344 do help and avail; and yet they who at any time have drunk the liver of a sod Viper, are never stung of Serpents.

The fat of a Viper is effectual against the dimnesse and suffusions of the eyes, mixed with Rosin, Honey-attick, and a like quantity of old Oil. * 1.345

For the Gowt they say it availeth much to anoint the feet with the fat of Vipers. Vipers fat heal∣eth them that are burned.

The slow of the Viper cureth the Ring-worm. The skin of the Viper beaten to powder, and laid * 1.346 upon the places where the hair is fallen, it doth wonderfully restore hair again.

Some extend and dry whole Vipers, and after beat them to powder, and minister them in drink * 1.347 against the Gowt. Others about the rising of the Dog-star, cut off the head and tail of Vipers, and burn the middle, then they give those ashes to be drunk 21. days, so much at a time as may be taken up with three fingers, and so cure the swelling in the neck. Joynts pained with the * 1.348 Gowt, are profitably anointed with Oyl wherein a Viper hath been sodden, for this cureth per∣fectly.

The making of the Oyl of Vipers, is described in these words; Take three or four Vipers, cut off * 1.349 their extream parts, the head and the tail, in length four fingers, divide the rest into four gobbets, and put them in a pot open above and below, which pot must be put into another greater pot; then the mouth of them must be well shut with clay, that they breath not forth; then put them into a Caldron full of seething water, and there let them continue boiling two hours in those pots: then will distil a liquor from the Vipers, which were in the pot open above and below, with that Oily liquor anoint the members of the party molested with the Palsie, for by a secret property it cureth the grief of that disease.

Of Triacle and Trochuks of Vipers.

Theriace or Triacle, not only because it cureth the venomous biting of Serpents, but also because the Serpents themselves are usually mingled in the making thereof, fitly is so named of both signi∣fications. * 1.350 Here also we will insert something concerning Trochuks of Vipers, which are mingled in the making of Triacle.

Triacle is very ancient, and hath always very carefully, and not without ambition, been refined by the Physitians, till Andromochus Nero his Physitian, added the flesh of Vipers, as the full accomplish∣ment of this drug. The flesh of Vipers alone is mingled in Triacle, and not the flesh of other Serpents, because all the rest have something malignant more then Vipers. Vipers are thought to have lesse poyson in them then other Serpents.

Vipers for Triacle must not be taken at any time, but chiefly in the beginning of the Spring, when having left their dens, they come forth into the Snn-shine, and as yet have not poyson much offensive.

Take female Vipers, for we must take heed how we take male Vipers for the confection of Anti∣dotes. For Trochuks all Vipers are not convenient, but those which be yellow, and of the yellow, * 1.351 the females only.

Vipers great with young you must refuse, for being pregnant, they are more exasperate then themselves at other times. * 1.352

Of Vipers be made Trochisces, which of the Grecians are called Theriaci, four fingers being cut off at either end, and the inwards taken out, and the pale matter cleaving to the back-bone: the * 1.353 rest of the body must be boiled in a dish in water, with the herb Dill, the back-bone must be taken out, and fine flowre must be added. Thus these Trochuks being made, they must be dryed in the shade, apart from the Sun-beams, and being so prepared, they be of very great use for many medicines.

The use of Triacle is profitable for many things, for not only by his own nature it availeth against the biting of venomous creatures and poysons, but also it is found by experience, to help many other great infirmities. For it easeth the Gowt and pain in the joynts, it dryeth fluxes, it very much profiteth men molested with the Dropsie, leprous and melancholick persons, those that have Quar∣tane Agues, or the Jaundise, those that have a weak voice, or that spet bloud: those that are trou∣bled with aking reins, with Dysentery, with the stone, with short breath, with passion of the liver or milt, with choler, with heart-ach, with the Falling-sicknesse. It driveth all kinde of Worms out of the bowels It is the most soveraign remedy of the Plague.

Even to them that are in health the often use of it is wholesome, for it promiseth long life, and firm health, it consumeth excrements, it strengtheneth natural actions, it quickeneth the wit, and sharpeneth all the senses; it preserveth the body from poyson and other offences, and maketh it scarse subject to danger by such casualties; it begetteth good bloud, it corrupteth the the air, and waters; neither alone doth it deliver from instant diseases, but also preserveth from those that be imminent.

Of EARTH-WORMS.

ALthough there be many and sundry sorts of Worms which do contain in them some poysonous * 1.354 quality, yet for all that, at this time my purpose is to discourse especially of Earth-worms, whereof some are bred only in the earth, and others among plants, and in the bodies of living creatures. Worms of the earth are termed by Plautus and Columella Lumbrici, peradventure as being derived a Lubricitate. They are called also Terrae Intestina of the Latines, as well because they take their first beginning and breeding in the very bowels and inward parts of the Earth, as because being pressed and squeesed betwixt the fingers or otherwise, they do void forth excrements after the fashi∣on of living beasts that have intrails in them. The Greeks call them Ges entera; Hesychius calleth them Embullous; Brunfelsius Otho in his Physick Lexicon writeth, that they are usually called in the Cilician tongue Gaphagas, fetching the derivation of the word parà Tò gaian phágein, for they feed upon earth. Of the Englishmen they are called Meds, and Earth-worms; of the French, Vers de Terra; of the Ger∣mans, Eert wurm, and Erdwurmem, Melet, Ode Regenwurm; of the Belgians, Pier-wuorm, or Rengenwuorm; of the Italians, Lumbrichi; of the Spaniards, Lumbrizes; of the Polonians, Glisti; of the Hungarians, Galisza; of the Arabians they are called Charatin. Manardus in his second Book and 40. Epistle writeth, that in times past they were called Onisculi, and Nisculi.

There are found especially two sorts of Earth-worms, which are either greater or lesser. The greater Earth-worms are somewhat long, almost like in proportion and shape to those round Worms which do breed in mens bodies. They are half a foot long at least, and being stretched out in length they are found to be a foot long, they are of a whitish colour, and sometimes though seldom of a bloudy hue: and for the most part they are all adorned with a chain about their necks, or rather they seem to wear a certain collar, wherein there is a little bloud contained, and they lack eyes and eye-sight, as all forts of Worms do.

They breed of the slime of the earth, taking their first being from putrefaction, and of the fat moisture of the same earth they are again fed and nourished, and into earth at last are resolved. When there falleth any showre of rain, then this kinde of Worm creepeth suddenly out of the earth, where-upon old Euclio in Plautus being very careful of his pot of Gold, speaketh aptly to his Drudge Strobi∣lus in these words;

Foras, foras Lumbrice, qui sub terra erepsisti modo, Qui modo nusquam camparebas, nunc autem cùm compares, peris. * 1.355

Which may be Englished thus;

Away, away thou Worm, late from the earth crept out, Safe thou wast unseen, but seen, life fails I doubt.

Here Euclio very properly termeth his Bondman Strobilus, a Worm because not being espyed of his Master before, he suddenly came sneaking out from behinde an Altar where he was hid, much like a Worm, that in moist weather issueth out of the ground. Those little heaps which are cast up and lie shining and wrinckled before the mouth or edges of their holes, I take them to be their miery excrements: for I cold never as yet finde other excrementitious substance, drossy matter, or other feculency, but only bare earth in them, whose alimentary juyce and moisture being clean exhausted, they cast out the remainder, as an unprofitable burthen, nothing fit for nou∣rishment. At the entrance of their doors, which yet steadeth them to some commodious use, for stopping and damming up their holes that the rain cannot so easily soke in, they are by these means safely defended from many anoyances and dangers, that otherwise might light upon them.

Their delight is to couple together, especially in a rainy night, cleaving together untill the morning: and in the same they are not folded round about one another like unto Serpents, but are straightly closed together side-wise, and thus do they remain sticking close the one to the other. They send forth a certain froathy slime or jelly when that they joyn together. They do ever keep the middle part of their body within the earth, I mean their hinder-parts; yea even in their mutual joyning together; neither are they at any time so fast glewed and closed, but with the least stirring and motion of the ground that can be imagined, they are straight-ways severed, with∣drawing themselves speedily into their lurking holes. In rainy weather they are whiter a great deal then at other times, unlesse it be when they couple together, for then they appear very red. I my self about the midst of April, did once open a thick female Worm, and within the flesh I found a certain receptacle ringed round about, and filling up the whole cavity of the body, having a thin membrane or seat enclosing it, and in this aforesaid store-house the earth which she had fed on, and wherewith she was sustained, was held and contained. Her egges were found to be in a safe place above the receptacle, next to the mouth, there were many of them on a heap together, being all of a whitish colour.

The lesser Earth-worms for perspicuities sake, we with Georgius Agricola will name Ascarides: and these are often found in great numbers in Dung-hills, Mixens, and under heaps of stones. Of this sort some are red, (which we Englishmen call Dugs) and these be they that Anglers and Fishers

do so much desire, for Fishes will greedily devour them, and for that end they with them do bait their hooks.

There be some others of these lesser Earth-worms that are somewhat of a blew colour, other-some again are yellow only about the tail: whereupon they have purchased the name of Yel∣low▪ tails. Some again are ringed about the necks, withall very fat. Some others there be that have neither chains nor rings, and these commonly be more lank and slender of body then the former, and these I judge to be the males. These Worms do specially breed in Autumn, or at the fall of the leaf, by reason then there is but little moisture in the earth, and this is Aristotles opi∣nion. Both kindes do live long in the water, but yet at length for want of sustenance there they die. They move from place to place with a kinde of reaching and thrusting forwards, for we cannot properly say that they do either rowl or tumble. Olympio in Plautus would go about to make a simple plain fellow believe that Worms did eat nothing but very earth, because he used these words to Chalinus;

Post autem nisi nisi ruri tu ervum comederis: (for thus Lambine readeth) Aut quasi Lumbricus terram.

In English thus;

And afterward thou nought but Tares shalt eat, Or else like Worms, the earth shall be thy meat.

But by earth here in this place, he understandeth not pure earth, and such as is without any other mixture, but rather the fat, juyce, and moisture of the same. And this is the reason, that Earth-worms are not to be found in all soils alike, as in barren, sandy, stony, hard, and bare grounds, but only in fat, gravelly, moist, clammy and fertile. And for this respect England hath many Worms, because both Countrey and soil are very moist: and this moisture whereon they feed must not be salt, sowre, tart, or bitter, but sweet and toothsome: and therefore it is, that Lucretius in his second Book writeth, that Worms are bred most when it showreth, as in rainy seasons and moist weather.

Quatenus in pullos animaleis vertier ova Cerminus alituum, vermes{que} effervere terram Intempestivos cùm putror coepit ob imbres.

In English thus;

Even as in time of rain, we see Birds Egges their young forth hatch, And Worms in heat of gendering be When they clouds rot do catch.

And to this opinion of Lucretius, Nicander seemeth to lean, when he affirmeth, that these Worms are nourished altogether of the earth that is moistned with long rain, or with some * 1.356 smoaking shower: for making a difference between the Serpent Scytale, and the Amphisbaena, he thus writeth;

Steileies pachetos, tes elminthos pelei ogros He cai entera ges oia trephei ombrimos aia. Id est. Manubrii ligonis latitudo, longitudo verò ei quae Lumbrico, Aut terrae intestinis, quae imbribus irrigata terra alit.

That is to say;

As broad as haft of Spade, his length like little Worm, And fed with dreary earth, moist by clouds and rainy form.

The greater sort of Earth-worms live in the bowels of the earth, and most of all in an open free air, and where there is some repair and confluence of people. Every morning they withdraw themselves into their secret holes and corners within the ground, fencing the entrance of them with their excrements they have voided forth, in a fair and Sunshine weather: but in rainy wea∣ther they use to stop the mouths of their holes with some stalk or leaves of herbs or trees, being drawn a little inwardly into the earth. They feed upon the roots of those Plants which have any sweet juyce or moisture in them; and therefore one may many times finde them amongst the roots of common Meddow-grasse: and they do live for the most part by the fat moisture of the earth, yet will they also greedily devour crums of white Bread unleavened, as I have often seen. In the Spring time, they first appear to come forth from the bowels of the earth, and all the Winter they lie hid in the ground, but yet if it be a very sharp and pinching cold Winter, and a dry Summer fol∣low, for lack of moisture they do almost all die.

Besides, if you dig into the earth, or make a great motion, trampling, or hard treading upon the same pouring in any strange liquor or moisture into the same, wherewithall they are unaquaint∣ed; as for example, the juyce of Wall-nut-trees, the water wherein Hemp either seeds or leaves

are soaked, or been laid to rot in common lye, and the like, they will issue out of the earth speedily, and by this means Fisher-men and Anglers do take them.

In like manner, they cannot endure Salt, or aromatical things, nor by their good will come neer them, for but touching any of these they will draw themselves on a heap, and so die. Worms are found to be very venomous in the Kingdom of Mogor, and the Inhabitants there do stand in so great fear of them, that they be destroyed and slain by them when they travel any journey; and there∣fore there they use ordinarily to carry Beesoms with them to sweep the plain ways for fear of fur∣ther hurt. Georgius Agricola saith, that the little Worms called Ascarides, are not all of one colour: for some are white, some yellow (as I remembred a little before) and others again are very black: and many of these in tilling the earth are cast up by the plough, and many found in divers places all on a heap together. These be they that destroy corn-fields, for by sharing or biting the roots the fruit dyeth.

Some say, that those Worms do most mischief to corn-grounds, which in some places of Italy the people term Zaccarole, and these are thick, almost a finger long, being naturally of a very cold con∣stitution of body; and therefore they never use to come forth of the earth, but when the weather is passing hot, for then will they come forth, even to the surface of the ground, as it is notably set down, by the famous Poet Homer:

—à quo ceu fonte perenni, * 1.357 Vatum Pieriis labra rigantur aquis.

In English thus;

By whom, as by an everlasting filling Spring, With Muses liquor, Poets lips are bath'd to sing.

Homer very fitly compareth Harpalion when he fell down dead amongst his companions, to a silly Worm, when as seeking to escape by flight out of the battel, he was wounded to death by Meriones, shooting an arrow or steel dart into his hanch or hip, his verses be these;

Meriones d' apiontos iei chalkere oiston, Kai r'ebale gloucon kata dexion autar oistos, Antikron kata kustin up' osteon exeperesen: Ezomenos de cat' authi philon en chersin etairon, Thumon apopneion, oste scolex epi gaia Keito tacheis ecd' aima melan ree, deue de gaian. Id est. Meriones autem in abeuntem misit aeream sagittam, Et vulneravit coxam ad dextram, ac sagitta E regione per vesicam sub os penetravit: Residens autem illic charorum inter manus sociorum Animam efflans, tanquam vermis super terram Jacebat extensus: sanguis{que} effluebat, ••ingebat autem terram.

That is to say;

But as he went away, behold Meriones With brazen dart, did his right hip-bone wound, Which neer the bladder did the bone through pierce: In friends deer hands, he dyed upon the ground. So stretcht upon the earth as Worm he lyed, Black bloud out flowing, the same bedyed.

Mark well the slendernesse of this comparison, whereby he would give us to understand the base estate, and faint heart of Harpalion. For in other places having to write of noble, valiant, and magnanimous persons, when they were ready to give up the ghost, he useth the words Spha∣dazein, Bruchein, and the like to these, secretly insinuating to us, that they fell not down dead like impotent Cowards, or timorous abjects, but that they raged like Lions, with grinding and gnashing their teeth together, that they were blasted, benummed, or suddenly deprived of all their lives and senses, &c. But here this pusillanimous and sordidous minded man Harpalion, seemed to be disgraced by his resembling to a poor Worm, being peradventure a man of so small estimation, and vile condition, as that no greater comparison seemed to fit him. It seemeth he was a man but of a faint courage, and very weak withall, because striking and thrusting with his Spear or Javellin at the Shield or Target of Atrides, he was not able to strike it through. But although this famous Poet doth so much seem to extenuate and debase a weak Worm: yet others have left us in their writings such commendations of their singular use and necessity, for the recovery of mans health (then which no earthly thing is more pretious) and have so nobilitated the worth of these poor contemptible Creatures, as I think, nature as yet hath scarse given any other simple Medicine, or experience found out by tract of time, nor knowledge of plants by long study hath revealed; nor Paracelsus by the Distillations of his Limbeck hath made known to the world, any se∣cret endued with so many vertues and excellent properties against so many diseases: and for proof hereof, it shall not be beside the purpose to examine and describe the rarest and most probable that are recorded amongst the learned.

Earth-worms do mollifie, conglutinate, appease pain, and by their terrestrial, and withall water ish humidity they do contemper any affected part, orderly and measurably moderating any excesse whatsoever. The powder of Worms is thus prepared: They use to take the greatest Earth-worm that can be found, and to wrap them in Mosse, suffering them there to remain for a certain time, thereby the better to purge and clense them from that clammy and filthy slimynesse, which out∣wardly cleaveth to their bodies. When all this is done, they presse hard the hinder-part of their bo∣dies neer to the tail, squeesing out thereby their excrements, that no impurity so neer as is possible may be retained in them.

Thirdly, they use to put them into a pot, or some fit vessel with some white Wine, and a little salt, and straining them gently between the fingers, they first of all cast away that Wine, and then do they pour more Wine to them, and after the washing of the Worms, they must also take away some of the Wine, for it must not all be poured away (as some would have it) and this must so often be done and renewed until the Wine be passing clear without any filth or drossinesse, for by this way their slimy jelly, and glutinous evil quality is clear lost and spent. Being thus prepared, they are to be dryed by little and little in an Oven, so long till they may be brought to powder, which being beaten and searsed, it is to be kept in a Glasse vessel far from the fire by it self. A dram of this powder being commixed with the juyce of Marigolds, cureth the Epilepsie, with some sweet Wine, as Muscadel, Bastard, or the Metheglin of the Welchmen. It helpeth the Dropsie. With white Wine and Myrrhe, the Jaundise, with new Wine, or Hydromel the Stone; Ulcers of the Reins and Blad∣der: It stayeth also the loosnesse of the belly, helpeth barrennesse, and expelleth the Secondine, it asswageth the pain of the hanch or hip••; by some the Sciatica; it openeth obstructions of the Liver, driveth away Tertian Agues, and expelleth all Worms that are bred in the Guts, being given and taken with the decoction or distilled Water of Germander, Worm-wood, Southern-wood, Garlick, Scordum, Centory, and such like.

The decoction of Worms made with the juyce of Knot-grasse, or Comfery, Salomons Seal, or Sarasius compound, cureth the disease tearmed by Physitians Diabetes, when one cannot hold his water, but that it runneth from him without stay, or as fast as he drinketh. A Glyster likewise made of the decoction of Earth-worms, and also taken accordingly, doth marvellously asswage and appease the pain of the Hemorrhoids. There be some that give the decoction of Earth-worms to those per∣sons that have any congealed or clotted bloud in their bodies, and that with happy successe. The ver∣tue of Earth-worms is exceedingly set forth, both by the Grecians and Arabians, to encrease Milk in womens breasts.

Hieronymus Mercurialis a learned Physitian of Italy, adviseth Nurses to use this confection follow∣ing in case they want milk, always provided that there be not a Fever joyned withall. Take of the Kernels of the fruit of the Pine-tree, sweet Almonds, of each alike, one ounce, seeds of Fennel, Parsley, and Rapes, of either alike one dram, of the powder of Earth-worms washed in Wine, two drams; with Sugar so much as is sufficient, to be given the quantity of a dram or two in the morning, and after it drink some small Wine, or Capon-broth boyled with Rape-seeds and Leeks. Against the Tooth-ach the same powder of Earth-worms is proved singular, being decocted in Oyl, and dropped a little at once into the ear, on the same side the pain is, as Pliny witnesseth, or a little of it put into the contrary ear, will perform the same effect, as Dioscorides testifieth. And thus far of Earth-worms taken into the body, and of their manifold vertues, according to the evi∣dence and testimony of Dioscorides, Galen, Aetius, Paulus, Aegineta, Myrepsus, Pliny, and daily experi∣ence which goeth beyond the precepts of all skilful Masters; for this is the Schoolmistris of all Arts, as Manilius in his second Book hath written;

Per varios usus artem experientia fecit, Exemplo monstrante viam.

In English thus;

Experience teacheth art by use of things, When as example plainest way forth brings.

Being also beaten to powder, and outwardly applyed, they do close and solder up wounds, and conglutinate sinews that are cut, and consolidating them again in the space of seven days, and to perform this cure the better, Democritius adviseth to keep them in Honey. The ashes of Earth-worms duly prepared, cleanseth Sordious, stinking and rotten Ulcers, consuming and wasting away their hard lips, or callous edges, if it be tempered with Tar and Simblian Honey, as Pliny af∣firmeth. Dioscorides saith, that the Honey of Sicilia was taken for that nf Simblia in his time. Their ashes likewise draweth our Darts or Arrows shot into the body, or any other matter that sticketh in the flesh, if they be tempered with Oil of Roses, and so applyed to the place affected. The powder also cureth Kibes in the heels, and Chilblanes on the hands, as Marcellus testifieth, for hurts that happen to the sinews when they are cut in pieces, Quintus Serenus hath these verses;

Profuerit terrae Lumbricos indere tritos, Queis vetus & rancens sociari axungia debet.

It is good (saith he) to apply to sinews that are dissected. The powder of Earth-worms mixed and wrought up with old, rammish, and unsavory Barrows grease, to be put into the grief. Mar∣cellus Empiricus, Besides the powder of Earth-worms and Axunger, addeth further, Grounswell, and the tender tops of the Box-tree with Olibanum: all these being made up and tempered toge∣ther to make an Emplaster, he counselleth to be applyed to sinews that are laid open, cut asunder, or that have received any puncture, or suffer any pain or aking whatsoever. Pliny saith, that there cannot be a better medicine found out for broken bones, then Earth-worms and field Mice dryed and pulverised, and so mixed together with Oyl of Roses, to be laid in the form of an empla∣ster upon the part fractured. Yea, to asswage and appease pain; both in the joynts and in the sinews of Horses, there hath not been found out a more notable Medicine, as we may well perceive by the writings both of Russius, Absyrtus, and Didymus: whereupon Cardan hath observed, that all pains whatsoever may be mitigated by their apt using. Carolus Clusius saith, that the Indians do make an excellent unguent of Earth-worms against the disease called Erysipelas, being a swelling full of heat and rednesse with pain round about, commonly called S. Anthonies fire: And thus it is prepared:

They first take Earth-worms alive, feeding them either with the leaves of Moeza, or else with fine Meal, until by this means they grow fat; afterwards boiling them in an earthen vessel, (remem∣bring ever to scum the same) they do strain them, boyling them yet again, to the consistence al∣most of an emplaister, which if it be rightly prepared is of a yellow colour. And this Medicine may well be used for any burning or scalding. My purpose is not to vouch all those authorities I might, concerning the admirable Nature and vertue of Earth-worms: for so I think I might alledge six hundred more, which is not meet to be inserted in this place. I will therefore now passe to their qualities and medicinal uses for irrational creatures.

Pelagonius much commendeth Earth-worms as an excellent medicine for the Bots or Worms that are in Horses, and in the bodies of Oxen and Kine, affirming that the best way is to put them alive into their Nosthrils, although without question it were far better to conveigh them into their maws by the means of some horn. Tardinus adviseth to give the powder of Earth-worms with some hot flesh, to Hawks when they cannot exonerate nature (or how Faulkeners tearm it, I know not.) For that (saith he) will loosen their bellies. Moles do also feed full savorly upon them, and if they fall a digging, it is strange to see with what sudden hast and speed then poor Worms will issue out of the ground. In like sort Hogs and Swine (as Varro writeth) by their turning up the mud, and rooting in the earth with their snowts, do by this means dig up the Worms, that they may eat them.

Albertus Magnus saith, that Toads do feed upon Worms. Bellonius saith, that Lizards and Tarenti∣nus, that the Sea-fish called Gryff, or Grample, doth greedily devour them, and finally experience it self witnesseth, that Frogs, Eels, Gudgeons, Carps, Breams, Roches, and Trowts, do satisfie their hungry guts by feeding upon them. Aristotle in his eight Book De Nat. Animal. Cap. 3. de∣scribeth a certain Bird that liveth in the waters, which Gaza interpreteth Capella, though the Phi∣losopher calleth it Aix, and some have called it Ʋdhellus, that liveth for the most part upon Worms: yea, Thrushes, Robin-red-breasts, Mun-murderers, and Bramblings, Hens, Chaffinches, Gnat-snap∣pers, Bull-finches, and all sorts of Crows will feed upon them; and therefore it is that there be more Crows in England, then in any other Countrey in the world, respecting the greatnesse, because here the soil being moist and fat, there is abundance of Earth-worms serving for their food, as Poly∣dorus Vurgilius in his first Book of the History of England, (which he dedicated to King Henry the eight) hath excellently delivered.

The people of India, if we will credit Monardus, do make of these Worms divers juncats, as we do Tarts, Marchpanes, Wafers, and Cheese-cakes, to eat instead of other dainties. And the Inhabitants of West-India do devour them raw, as Francis Lopez testifieth. The people of Europe in no place that ever I heard or read of, can endure them to be set on their Tables, but for medicinal uses only they desire them. Plautus useth in stead of a proverb this that followeth;

Nunc ab transenna hic turdus Lumbricum petit. * 1.358

It is an allegory taken and borrowed from a gin or snare wherewith Birds are taken: by which Chrysalus the bond-man bringing certain Letters to Nicobolus an old man, signifieth and giveth warning, that the weak old man was by the reading of the letter no otherwise ensnared, intang∣led, and deceived, then some Birds are taken by subtile and crafty sleights. For Transenna is nothing but a deceitful cord stretched out to take Birds, especially Thrushes or Mavisses withall, and Worms is their proper food, which while they endevour to entrap, they themselves are deceived and taken. Surely I should not think that those Fishers and Anglers be very wise, who to take Worms, use to pour lye or water into the earth wherein Hemp, Southern-wood, Centory, Worm-wood, or Vervin have been long soaked, or any other strange moisture, causing them by this mean to issue forth out of the earth, for the Earth-worms by this kinde of dealing being made more bitter, unsavoury, and unpleasant, no fishes will once touch or tast them, but rather seek to avoid them. But contrarywise, if they will let them lie a whole day in Wheat-meal, putting a little Ho∣ney to it, and then bait their hooks with them, they will be so sweet, pleasant, and delectable, as that the unwary Fish will sooner bite at it, then at Ambrosia, the very meat of the Gods.

Earth-worms do also much good to men, serving them to great use in that they do prognosti∣cate and foretell rainy weather by their sodain breaking or issuing forth of the ground: and if none appear above ground over-night, it is a great signit will be calm and fair weather the next day. The ancient people of the world have ever observed this as a general rule, that if Worms pierce through the earth violently, and in haste by heaps, as if they had bored it through with some little Auger or Piercer, they took it for an infallible token of Rain shortly after to fall. For the Earth being as it were imbrued, distained, made moist, and moved with an imperceptible m〈…〉〈…〉on, partly the South winde, and partly also a vaporous air, it yeeldeth an easie passage for round Worms to winde out of the inward places of the Earth, to give unto them moist food, and to minister store of fat juyces, or fattish jelly, wherewith they are alto∣gether delighted.

Some there be found, that will fashion and frame Iron after such a manner, as that they will bring it to the hardnesse of any steel, after this order following. They take of Earth-worms two parts, of Raddish roots one part, after they are bruised together, the water is put into a Limbeck to be distilled, or else take of the distilled water of Worms l. iij. of the juyce of Raddish l. i. mix them together, for Iron being often quenched in this water, will grow exceeding hard.

Another. Take of Earth-worms l. ij. distil them in a Limbeck with an easie and gentle fire, and temper your Iron in this distilled water. Another. Take of Goats bloud so much as you please, adding to it a little common salt, then bury them in the earth in a pot well glased and luted for thirty days together. Then distil after this the same bloud in Balneo, and to this distilled liquor, add so much of the distilled water of Earth-worms. Another. Take of Earth-worms, of the roots of Apple-trees, of Rapes, of each a like-much, distil them apart by by themselves, and in equal por∣tions of this water so distilled, and afterwards equally mixed, quench your Iron in it, as is said be∣fore. Antonynus Gallus.

It shall not be impertinent to our matter we handle, to add a word or two concerning those worms that are found and do breed in the snow, which Theophanes in Strabo calleth Oripas: but be∣cause it may seem very strange and incredible, to think that any worms breed and live only in the Snow, you shall hear what the Ancients have committed to writing, and especially Strabo his opinion concerning this point. It is (saith he) received amongst the greater number of men, that in the snow there are certain clots or hard lumps that are very hollow, which waxing hard and thick, do contain the best water as it were in a certain coat; and that in this case or purse there do breed worms. Theophan s calleth them Oripas, and Apollonides, Vermes.

Aristotle saith, that living creatures will breed also even in those things that are not subject to pu∣trefaction; as for example, in the fire and snow, which of all things in the world, one would take never to be apt to putrefie, and yet in old Snow Worms will be bred. Old Snow that hath lyen long, will look somewhat dun, or of a dullish white colour, and therefore the Snow-worms are of the same hiew, and likewise rough and hairy. But those Snow-worms which are found to breed when the air is somewhat warm, are great, and white in colour, and all these Snow-worms will hardly stir, or move from place to place. And Pliny is of the same judgement, and the Author of that Book which is intituled De Plantis, falsely fathered upon Aristotle. * 1.359

Yet some there be that denying all these authorities, and rejecting whatsoever can be objected for confirmation thereof to the contrary, do stoutly maintain by divers reasons, that creatures can∣not breed in the Snow: because that in Snow there is no heat, and where no quickning heat is, there can be no production of any living thing. Again, Aristotle writeth that nothing will come of Ice, because it is (as he saith) most cold: and hereupon they infer that in all reason, nothing like∣wise can take his beginning from Snow; neither is it credible, that husbandmen would so of∣ten wish for Snow in Winter to destroy and consume Worms, and other little Vermine, that else would prove so hurtful to their corn and other fruits of the earth. And if any Worms be found in the Snow, it followeth not straightways that therein they first receive their beginning, but ra∣ther that they first come out of the earth, and are afterwards seen to be wrapped up, and lie on heaps in the Snow.

But by their leaves these reasons are very weak, and may readily be answered thus; that whereas they maintain that nothing can breed in the Snow, because it is void of any heat at all, herein they build upon a false ground. For if we will adhibit credit to Averrhoes, there is nothing com∣pounded and made of the three Elements, that is absolutely without heat. And Aristotle in his fift Book De Generatione Animalium, telleth us precisely, that there is no moisture without heat. His words are Ouden hugron aneu thermou. Now Snow is a compact, and fast congealed substance, and somewhat moist, for although it proceedeth by congelation, which is nothing else but a kinde of exsiccation, yet notwithstanding, the matter whereof it first cometh is a vapour, whose nature is moist, and with little ado may be turned into water.

I must needs say that congelation is a kinde of exsiccation, but yet not simply: for exsicca∣tion is, when as humidity goeth away, it putteth forth any matter, but in Snow there is no hu∣midity that is drawn out, but it is rather wrapped in and inclosed more strongly, and as it were bounded round. Furthermore Aristotle in his first Book of his Meteors saith, that Snow is Nubes congelata, a clowd congelated or thicked together, and that in Snow there is much heat. And in his fift Book De Generatione Animalium, he further addeth, that the whitenesse of the Snow is caused by the air, that the air is hot and moist, and the Snow is white; whereupon we conclude, that

Snow is not so cold, as some would bear us in hand. I well hold that nothing will take his Ori∣ginal from Ite; in regard of his excessive coldnesse, but yet snow is nothing nigh so cold as that. So then all the hinderance and let is found to exceed of cold, which is nothing so effectual or for∣cible as in Ite, and the cold being proved to be far lesser, there can nothing be alleadged to the con∣trary, but that it may putrefie.

Now in that Snow is such an enemy to Worms, and many other small creatures, as that for the most part it destroyeth them, yet it followeth not, that the reason of Aristotle is quite overthrown〈…〉〈…〉 because (as we daily see) that those creatures which live in the air, will for the most part be suffocare and die in the water; and contrariwise, those that live in the water, cannot en∣dure the a〈…〉〈…〉 Yet hereupon it followeth not, that if they be choked in the water, that none at all will live in the water, and the same reason is to be alleadged concerning the air. Therefore it is no marvail if those Worms that first breed in the earth, and live in the earth, be killed by the Snow; yet it necessarily followeth not, that no living creature can take his first being either from or in the snow. But if it can, as Aristotle witnesseth, it is so far unlikely that the same Snow should be the destroyer of that it first was bred of, as I think rather it cannot live separately, but of neces∣sity in the same Snow; no otherwise then fishes can live without water, from which they first sprung and had their beginning.

And to this opinion leaneth Theophrasius, in his first Book De Causis Plantarum, whose words be these, Apanta gar pha••n tai ta zoa, kai ta phuta kai diamenònta, kai genomena, en tois orkuiois topois: For all creatures (saith he) whatsoever seem, both plants to remain, and to be generated and bred, in their own due and proper places. And after this he addeth and urgeth a little further, Aparthe men hupo touton; from his own home and special particular place of abode, nothing can suffer, sustain harm, or be corrupted. And in his fift Book De caus. Plan. he setteth it down more perspicuously, how that Worms which are bred in some special trees, being afterward translated and changed to other trees, where they never came before, cannot possibly live. Wherefore it is more consonant to reason, and more agreeable to common sense, to affirm that those Worms which are found folded and rolled up in the Snow, to have been first bred in the same Snow, rather then to have issued out of the earth.

Neither are we to make any question or scruple concerning their food; for there is no doubt, but the mother from whence they proceeded, will provide sufficient nourishment for her own children. For as we said a little before, the Snow is no simple thing, but compacted and concrete together of many, and of this nature ought every aliment to be. Julius Caesar Scali∣ger is of this minde, that Worms are ingendered and brought forth in the very Snow, because there is in it much air and spirit, which afterwards being heated and brought to some warmth together, may cause them to generate; for it is the nature and quality of Snow to make fat the earth, of which fattish moisture or Jelly, there may (heat being joyned) be produced a living creature.

There be some that do constantly hold, that in the midst of certain stones, of which they use to make Lime, there do breed divers creatures, of very different kindes, and sundry pro∣portions and shapes, and likewise Worms, with hairy backs, and many feet, which are wont to do much hurt to Furnaces and Limbeckils where they make Lyme. Yet Caesalpinus in his first Book De Metal. chap. 2. thinketh the contrary, assuring us that in Metal-mines, Quarries of Mar∣ble, and other stones, there can never any living body be found. And yet in Rocks of the Sea, within the hollow places and rifts of the stones, they do commonly finde certain small living things called Dactili.

I do not doubt, whatsoever he saith to the contrary, but that many creeping, and other living creatures, may be found both in the secret Mines of stone, and sometimes also amongst Metals, although it be seldom seen. And for confirmation hereof, I will alleadge one exam∣ple happening not many years since in our own Countrey. At Harlestone a mile from Holdenby in Northamptonshire, there was a Quarry of free stone found out, of which they digged for the building of Sir Christopher Hattons house, where there was taken up one being a yard and a half square every way at the least, and being cloven asunder, there was found in the very midst of it a great Toad alive, but within a very short space after, comming to the open air, it dyed. This stone amongst others, was taken very deep out of the earth, it was split and cut asunder by one whose name is Lole, an old man yet living at this day, it was seen of five hundred persons, Gentlemen and others, of worthy repute and esteem, the most part of them living at this hour, whose attestation may defend me in this report: and surely if Toads may live in the midst of stones, I can see no reason but that Worms may there be found, but as yet I could never see it.

In the year of Grace 970. at what time Romualdus the son of Sergius a young Monk, was ad∣vanced by the Nobility of Ravenna to be their Archbishop, there followed a great death and mur∣rein among Earth-worms: after that again ensued scarsity and death of all fruits of the earth, as Carolus Sigonius in his Chronicle of the Kingdom of Italy declareth. Henry Emperor of Rome, the son of the Emperour Henry the third, as Crantzius hath written, when he took his voyage into Italy, being suddenly stayed of his intended course, with an Army sent against him by Matild, that he should passe no further then Lombardy, yet having taken Mutina,

there appeared a strange and uncouth sign in the air, for an innumerable company of Worms, smaller and thinner then any Flies, did flie about in the air, being so thick that they might be touched with any small stick or wand, and sometimes with the hand, so that they covered the face of the earth one mile in breadth, and darkned likewise the air two or three miles in length. Some did interpret it as a sign or fore-telling, that some Christian Prince should go into the Holy-land.

In the year of our Lord God one thousand one hundred and four, there were seen divers fiery and flying Worms in the air, in such an infinite multitude, that they darkened the light of the Sun, seeming to deprive mens eye-sight thereof; and shortly after this monstrous and unnatural wonder, there followed other strange and seldom-seen prodigious sights on the earth: and what a boisterous storm of troubles, and raging whirl-winde of War and bloud-shed shortly after ensued, the event thereof did plainly manifest.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Augustine. Epiphan.
• * 1.2

  Zanchius.
• * 1.3

  Textor.
• * 1.4

  Mr. Will. Morley of Glynde in Suffex.
• * 1.5

  Plutarch.
• * 1.6

  Ca. Oppius. Iul. Higinus. Gellius.
• * 1.7

  Pierius.
• * 1.8

  Pierius.
• * 1.9

  Pliny. Galen.
• * 1.10

  Plutarch. Pierius. Textor.
• * 1.11

  Macrobius. Coelius Rho. Pliny.
• * 1.12

  Obsequens.
• * 1.13

  Pliny. Aristotle.
• * 1.14

  Aelianus.
• * 1.15

  H••linshed.
• * 1.16

  Aelianus. Isidorus.
• * 1.17

  Mela.
• * 1.18

  Pliny. Megasth. Solinus. Textor. Strabo. Aelianus.
• * 1.19

  Alosius. Gellius. Scaliger. Cardan.
• * 1.20

  P. Fagius.
• * 1.21

  Venetus. Hatthonus.
• * 1.22

  Pierius.
• * 1.23

  Solinus. Aelianus.
• * 1.24

  Cor. Celsus. Pierius.
• * 1.25

  Scaliger.
• * 1.26

  Olaus Mag.
• * 1.27

  Eup••lides.
• * 1.28

  Diod. Sicul.
• * 1.29

  Arrianus. Suetonius. Pliny.
• * 1.30

  Epist 5.
• * 1.31

  Aelianus. Grevinus. Olaus Mag. Textor. Pliny.
• * 1.32

  Mercurialis. Pliny.
• * 1.33

  Aelianus.
• * 1.34

  Ponzettus.
• * 1.35

  At Seaven-oak in K••nt, which ••o•• belongs to Sir Ralph Boss••vile, Knight, &c.
• * 1.36

  Aelianus. Pliny.
• * 1.37

  Pierius.
• * 1.38

  Coelius Rho.
• * 1.39

  Diod. Sicul.
• * 1.40

  Aelianus. Herodotus. Aeneas Syl.
• * 1.41

  Gellius.
• * 1.42

  Lampridius.
• * 1.43

  Pierius.
• * 1.44

  P. Venetus. Aristotle. Philostratus.
• * 1.45

  Solinus.
• * 1.46

  Philes. Marcedi. Simocratus. Diodorus. Zoroaster.
• * 1.47

  Crescentius.
• * 1.48

  Textor.
• * 1.49

  Oppianus.
• * 1.50

  Aelianus.
• * 1.51

  Aristotle. Perottus. Isidorus. Aelianus.
• * 1.52

  Bellonius. Crus.
• * 1.53

  Pliny.
• * 1.54

  Erasmus.
• * 1.55

  Aelianus.
• * 1.56

  Thrafillus. Pliny. Aelianus.
• * 1.57

  Aelianus. Constantinus.
• * 1.58

  Aelianus.
• * 1.59

  Elecampane in English.
• * 1.60

  Remedies to be had and taken from Serpents.
• * 1.61

  Suffumigations to expell Ser∣pents.
• * 1.62

  Of such things as are laid un∣der us, that will expel Ser∣pents.
• * 1.63

  Of Unguents and things born about us, from which Serpents will run away.
• * 1.64

  All this medi∣cinal descripti∣on of Serpents was written by Tho. Bon∣ham Doctor in Physick.
• * 1.65

  Herodotus. Mela. Pliny.
• * 1.66

  Solinus. Scaliger. Boemus.
• * 1.67

  Aeneas Syl. Nicander. Venetus. P. Martyr.
• * 1.68

  Florentinus.
• * 1.69

  Caelius Rho. Aelianus.
• * 1.70

  Constantinus.
• * 1.71

  Pliny. Textor.
• * 1.72

  Plutarch. Pierius.
• * 1.73

  Pierius.
• * 1.74

  Suidas.
• * 1.75

  Isidorus.
• * 1.76

  Herodotus.
• * 1.77

  Pliny. Silvius.
• * 1.78

  Virgil.
• * 1.79

  Olaus Mag. Avicenna.
• * 1.80

  Galen. Hippocrates.
• * 1.81

  Cael. Rhod.
• * 1.82

  Diodorus. Pierius.
• * 1.83

  Aelianus.
• * 1.84

  Aetius. Aegineta. Pliny.
• * 1.85

  Aetius. Avicenna. Arnoldus. Srabo.
• * 1.86

  Aetius. Olaus.
• * 1.87

  Am. Paraeus.
• * 1.88

  Bellonius.
• * 1.89

  Aelianus.
• * 1.90

  Gillius.
• * 1.91

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.92

  Pli••y.
• * 1.93

  Suidas.
• * 1.94

  Textor.
• * 1.95

  Aelianus.
• * 1.96

  Mercurial. Aetius.
• * 1.97

  Ponzettus.
• * 1.98

  Galen.
• * 1.99

  Dioscorid. Actuarius. Aegineta.
• * 1.100

  Mercurialis.
• * 1.101

  Paraeus.
• * 1.102

  Aetius.
• * 1.103

  Mercurialis.
• * 1.104

  Andreas.
• * 1.105

  Aetius.
• * 1.106

  Cor. Celsus.
• * 1.107

  Olaus Mag.
• * 1.108

  Pliny. Orpheus.
• * 1.109

  Dr. Bonban his discourse of Bees, Wasps and Drones.
• * 1.110

  Names.
• * 1.111

  A••um definitio.
• * 1.112

  Description of their parts.
• * 1.113

  No respiration in Bees.
• * 1.114

  D••fferences of Bees from na∣ture.
• * 1.115

  Description of the King.
• * 1.116

  Differences in regard of sex.
• * 1.117

  The difference of the form of Bees according to the place.
• * 1.118

  Bees of Ame∣rica.
• * 1.119

  The govern∣ment of Bees.
• * 1.120

  The use of Bees.
• * 1.121

  Medicinal uses.
• * 1.122

  The Names.
• * 1.123

  The Descripti∣on.
• * 1.124

  Arist. l. 3. de g••ner. An••m. c. 10.
• * 1.125

  Their genera∣tion.
• * 1.126

  Their uses.
• * 1.127

  Of Bees called Theeves.
• * 1.128

  Their uses.
• * 1.129

  D. Bonham.
• * 1.130

  Lucretius.
• * 1.131

  In Hoediporis.
• * 1.132

  Mizaldus. 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.133

  Allens wife.
• * 1.134

  Salomon.
• * 1.135

  The curation of their stings.
• * 1.136

  Gilbertus Anglus.
• * 1.137

  Haly Abbas.
• * 1.138

  Rhazes.
• * 1.139

  Serapio.
• * 1.140

  Ardoynus.
• * 1.141

  Mesus.
• * 1.142

  Aaron.
• * 1.143

  Constantine.
• * 1.144

  Gulielmus Placentinus. Gordonius. Varignana.
• * 1.145

  Matthiolus.
• * 1.146

  Arnoldus dē villa nova. Marcellus.
• * 1.147

  The names.
• * 1.148

  Their descrip∣tion.
• * 1.149

  In bellis civili∣bus omnna sunt misera. Tul. ep. femal.
• * 1.150

  Their uses.
• * 1.151

  Remedies against their stings.
• * 1.152

  The error of some medi∣cine-givers.
• * 1.153

  Their name:
• * 1.154

  Their diffe∣rences.
• * 1.155

  The descripti∣on of Pityo∣campes.
• * 1.156

  Their qualities.
• * 1.157

  Their use in Physick.
• * 1.158

  Aristotle. Solinus.
• * 1.159

  Aristotle. Pliny.
• * 1.160

  Solimis.
• * 1.161

  Aristotle.
• * 1.162

  Marcellus.
• * 1.163

  Rhazes.
• * 1.164

  Kiranides.
• * 1.165

  Trallianus.
• * 1.166

  Pliny. Solinue.
• * 1.167

  Pliny. Textor. Avicenna. Aelianus. Solinus.
• * 1.168

  Solinus. Scaliger.
• * 1.169

  Aelianus.
• * 1.170

  Ponzettus.
• * 1.171

  Aurelianus.
• * 1.172

  Aristotle. Mela. Diod. Sicul.
• * 1.173

  Marcellinus. Herodotus. Isidore.
• * 1.174

  Coelius Rho.
• * 1.175

  Herodotus. Pliny. Solinus. Marcellinus.
• * 1.176

  Albertus. Herodotus.
• * 1.177

  P. Martyr.
• * 1.178

  Aelianus.
• * 1.179

  Herodotus. Pliny.
• * 1.180

  Orus.
• * 1.181

  Strabo.
• * 1.182

  Orus.
• * 1.183

  Aelianus. Solinus.
• * 1.184

  Plutarch.
• * 1.185

  Solinus.
• * 1.186

  P. Martyr.
• * 1.187

  Marcellinus.
• * 1.188

  Caelius.
• * 1.189

  Herodotus.
• * 1.190

  Orus.
• * 1.191

  Aelianus.
• * 1.192

  Aristotle. Marcellinus. Aelianus. Leo Afric.
• * 1.193

  Plutarch.
• * 1.194

  Calcagninus.
• * 1.195

  Diod. Sicul.
• * 1.196

  Strabo.
• * 1.197

  Strabo. Solinus.
• * 1.198

  Seneca.
• * 1.199

  Strabo.
• * 1.200

  Orus. Aelianus.
• * 1.201

  Crescenst.
• * 1.202

  Diodorus.
• * 1.203

  Herodotus.
• * 1.204

  Pliny. Capitolinus. Lampridius.
• * 1.205

  Vadianus.
• * 1.206

  Aetius.
• * 1.207

  P. Martyr.
• * 1.208

  Herodotus.
• * 1.209

  Dioscorides.
• * 1.210

  Pliny.
• * 1.211

  Arnoldus.
• * 1.212

  Aetius. Rhazes.
• * 1.213

  Aetius.
• * 1.214

  Arnoldus.
• * 1.215

  Bellonius.
• * 1.216

  Aristotle.
• * 1.217

  Aelianus.
• * 1.218

  Rhazes.
• * 1.219

  Marcellinus. Bellonius. Olaus Mag.
• * 1.220

  Olaus Mag.
• * 1.221

  Aelianus.
• * 1.222

  Stu••psius.
• * 1.223

  Aelianus. Scaliger.
• * 1.224

  Aelianus. Herodotus.
• * 1.225

  Brodeus. Scaliger.
• * 1.226

  Crini••us.
• * 1.227

  Stumpsius.
• * 1.228

  Aelianus.
• * 1.229

  Gillius.
• * 1.230

  Suetonius.
• * 1.231

  Stumpsius.
• * 1.232

  Aristotle.
• * 1.233

  Vincensius. Solinus.
• * 1.234

  Aetius. Grevin. Avicen.
• * 1.235

  Aetius.
• * 1.236

  Albertus.
• * 1.237

  Albertus. ••iranides, Democritus.
• * 1.238

  A story.
• * 1.239

  A story,
• * 1.240

  Pliny.
• * 1.241

  Avicenna.
• * 1.242

  Marcellus.
• * 1.243

  Strabo. Solinus.
• * 1.244

  Aelianus. Polycletus.
• * 1.245

  Marcellus.
• * 1.246

  Palladius. Pliny.
• * 1.247

  Marcellus.
• * 1.248

  Nicander. Gillius. Lucan.
• * 1.249

  Matthiolus.
• * 1.250

  Willichius.
• * 1.251

  Orus.
• * 1.252

  Cordus.
• * 1.253

  Dioscorid.
• * 1.254

  Cardan.
• * 1.255

  Pliny.
• * 1.256

  Aelianus.
• * 1.257

  Aelianus.
• * 1.258

  Varines. Strabo.
• * 1.259

  Aelianus. Leo Afric.
• * 1.260

  Strabo.
• * 1.261

  Cordus.
• * 1.262

  Gillius.
• * 1.263

  Aelianus. Pliny.
• * 1.264

  Aristotle.
• * 1.265

  Pliny. Aelianus.
• * 1.266

  Ia. Lacinius.
• * 1.267

  Kiramides.
• * 1.268

  Philes. Aelianus.
• * 1.269

  Pliny.
• * 1.270

  Aelianus.
• * 1.271

  Albertus.
• * 1.272

  Aelianus.
• * 1.273

  Galen.
• * 1.274

  Ponzettus.
• * 1.275

  Arnoldus, Aetius.
• * 1.276

  Palladius. Rasis.
• * 1.277

  Strabo. Plutarch.
• * 1.278

  Gillius.
• * 1.279

  Actius.
• * 1.280

  Solinus.
• * 1.281

  Gyraldus.
• * 1.282

  Cardan.
• * 1.283

  Aetius. Aelianus.
• * 1.284

  Brasavolus.
• * 1.285

  Kiranides.
• * 1.286

  Alexius.
• * 1.287

  Galenus.
• * 1.288

  Aelianus.
• * 1.289

  Solinus.
• * 1.290

  Rondoletius.
• * 1.291

  Aetius.
• * 1.292

  Scaliger.
• * 1.293

  Oswaldus.
• * 1.294

  Phurnut.
• * 1.295

  Lea Afric.
• * 1.296

  Olaus.
• * 1.297

  Doctor Bon∣hams discourse of Spiders.
• * 1.298

  The signes to know when one is bitten of any Phalaangie and the effects of the same.
• * 1.299

  Their use.
• * 1.300

  Aetius.
• * 1.301

  Crescen.
• * 1.302

  Pliny.
• * 1.303

  Actorius.
• * 1.304

  Caelius Rho.
• * 1.305

  Amatus.
• * 1.306

  Strabo.
• * 1.307

  Aelianus.
• * 1.308

  Aelianus.
• * 1.309

  Palladius.
• * 1.310

  Brasavolus.
• * 1.311

  Aristotle.
• * 1.312

  Oppianus. Plinius.
• * 1.313

  Plutarch.
• * 1.314

  Aelianus.
• * 1.315

  Boemus.
• * 1.316

  Mercuriall.
• * 1.317

  Cardan.
• * 1.318

  Herodotus.
• * 1.319

  Scaliger. Cardan.
• * 1.320

  Aelianus.
• * 1.321

  Galen.
• * 1.322

  Aristotle.
• * 1.323

  Aristotle.
• * 1.324

  Avicenna.
• * 1.325

  Coelius.
• * 1.326

  Aelianus.
• * 1.327

  Strabo.
• * 1.328

  Aelianus.
• * 1.329

  Gallen.
• * 1.330

  Dioscorid. Rasis,
• * 1.331

  Pausanias.
• * 1.332

  Pliny. Nicander.
• * 1.333

  In Vipera.
• * 1.334

  Funamellus.
• * 1.335

  Avicen. Amatus.
• * 1.336

  Galen.
• * 1.337

  Galen.
• * 1.338

  Hellideus.
• * 1.339

  Pliny.
• * 1.340

  Porphyrius.
• * 1.341

  Dioscorides.
• * 1.342

  Pliny.
• * 1.343

  Aetius.
• * 1.344

  Albertus.
• * 1.345

  Pliny.
• * 1.346

  Galen.
• * 1.347

  Aetius.
• * 1.348

  Avicenna.
• * 1.349

  Leonell. Faventin.
• * 1.350

  Galen.
• * 1.351

  Avicen.
• * 1.352

  Galen.
• * 1.353

  Aetius.
• * 1.354

  Doctor Bon∣hams discourse of Worms.
• * 1.355

  In Aulularia.
• * 1.356

  In Theriaca.
• * 1.357

  Ovi. amo. l. 3.
• * 1.358

  In Bacchide.
• * 1.359

  Lib 11. c. 35.