CHAP. IX.
The former matter proved by many examples of the living and the dead.
ANd as we see in stones, hearbs, &c. strange operation and naturall love and dissention;* 1.1 so do we read, that in the body of a man, there be as strange properties and vertues naturall. I have heard by credible report, and I have read many grave authors, constantly affirme, that the wound of a man murthered reneweth bleeding, at the presence of a dear friend, or of a mortall enemy. Diverse also write, that if one passe by a murthered body (though unknowne) he shall be stricken with fear, and fell in him selfe some alteration by nature. Also that a woman, above the age of fifty years, being bound hand and foot, her clothes being upon her, and laid down softly into the water sinketh not in a long time;* 1.2 some say not at all. By which experiment they were wont to try witches, as well as by Ferrum candens;* 1.3 which was, to hold hot iron in their hands, and by not burning to be tried. Howbeit, Plutarch saith that Py••••bus his great toe had in it such naturall or rather divine vertue, that no fire could burne it.
And Albertus saith, and many other also repeat the same storie, saying,