Plutarch's morals. Part 5. translated from the Greek by several hands.

Plutarch's Morals: Vol. V.

Of the Names of Rivers and Mountains, and of such things as are to be found therein.

Translated out of the Greek by R. White M.A.

THis Peice was never printed with Plutarch's Works before; and some there are who question whether it were Plutarch that wrote this Treaise or no. But Philip Jacob Maussacus proves as well by the Style, as from other good Authorities that it was a legitimate Off-spring of the same Author. For which reason, since it was never printed in the English before, it was thought but a peice of Justice to add it to the rest of his Work.

Hydaspes. Now the Indian Rowey, as most suppose.

CHrisippe, by the impulse of Venus, whom she had offended, fell in Love with her Father Hydaspes, and not being able to curb her pre∣ternatural desires, by the help of her Nurse, in the dead of the Night, got to his Bed, and receiv'd his

Caresses: After which, the King proving unfortunate in his Affairs, he buried the Old Bawd, that had be∣tray'd him, alive, and crucify'd his Daughter. Never∣theless such was the excess of his Grief for the loss of Chrysippe, that he threw himself into a River of India, which was afterwards call'd by his name Hydaspes.

This is a River of India which falls with an extra∣ordinary swift stream into the Saronitie Bay. Moreover in this River, there grows a Stone, which is call'd Lycknis, which resembles the colour of Oyl, and is very hot to the touch. And when they are searching after it, which they do when the Moon encreases, the Pipers play all the while: nor is it to be worn by any but the richer sort. Also nere that part of the River which is call'd Pyle, there grows an Herb which is very like a Mary-Gold; with the juice of which the People anoint their Skins to prevent Sun-burning, and to secure them against the scorching of the excessive Heat.

The Natives, when ever they take their Virgins tardy, nail them to a Wooden Cross and fling them in∣to this River, singing at the same time in their own Language a Hymn to Venus. Every year also, they bury a condemn'd Old Woman, nere the top of the Hill, call Therogonos; at what time an infinite Multi∣tude of creeping Creatures come down from the top of the Hill, and devour the infects that hover about the buried Carkass: as Chrysermus relates in his History of India. Tho A••chelaus gives a more exact accompt of these things in his Treatise of Rivers.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Elephas, so call'd upon this Occasion: When Alexander the Mace∣donian advanc'd with his Army into India, and that the Natives were resolv'd to withstand him with all their force, the Elephant upon which Porus, King of that Region, was wont to ride, being of a suddain stung with a Gad-bee, ran up to the top of the Mountain of the

Sun, and there utter'd these words distinctly in hu∣man Speech. O King, my Lord, descending from the race of Gegasius, forbear to attempt any thing against Alexander, for he is descended from Jupiter; and having so said, he presently dy'd. Which when Porus under∣stood, afraid of Alexander he fell at his Feet, and su'd for Peace. Which when he had obtain'd he call'd the Mountain Elephas; as Dercyllus testifies in his third Book of Mountains.

Ismenus. Now Ismeno.

Ismenus is a River of Boeotia that washes the Walls of Thebes, it was formerly call'd the Foot of Cadmus, upon this occasion. When Cadmus had slain the Dra∣gon which kept the Fountain of Mars, he was afraid to taste of the Water, believing it was poyson'd; which forc'd him to wander about in search of another Fountain, to allay his Thirst. At length, by the help of Minerva, he came to the Corycaean Den, where his right Leg stuck deep in the Mire; and from that hole it was that after he had pull'd his Leg out again, sprung a fair Ri∣ver, which the Hero after the solemnity of his Sacrifices perform'd, call'd by the name of Cadmus's Foot.

Sometime after, Ismenus the Son of Amphion and Niobe being wounded by Apollo, and in great pain, th•• w himself into the said River, which was then from his name call'd Ismenus, as Sostratus relates in his Second Book, of Rivers.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Cithaeron, for∣merly call'd Asterion for this reason. Boeotus the Son of Neptune being desirous, of two Noble Ladies, to Marry her that should be most beneficial to him, while he tarry'd for both in the Night time upon the top of a certain nameless Mountain, of a suddain a Star fell from Heaven upon the Shoulders of Eurythemistes, and imm••diately vanish'd. Upon which Boeotus understand∣ing

the meaning of the Prodigy, Marry'd the Virgin, and call'd the Mountain Asterion from the Accident that befel him. Afterwards it was call'd Cithaeron upon this occasion. Tisiphone one of the Erinny's or Furies of Hell falling in love with a most beautiful Youth whose name was Cithaeron, and not be∣ing able to curb the Impatience of her Desires, declared her Affection to him in a Letter, to which he would not return any Answer. Whereupon the Fury mis∣sing her Design, pull'd one of the Serpents from her Locks, and flung it upon the Young Lad, as he was keeping his Sheep on the Top of the Mountain Aste∣rion; where the Serpent twining about his Neck, choak'd him to Death. And thereupon by the Will of the Gods, the Mountain was call'd Cithaeron, as Leo of Byzantium writes in his History of Boeotia.

But Hermesianax of Cyprus, tells the Story quite o∣therwise. For he says, that Helicon and Cithaeron were two Brothers, quite different in their Dispositions. For Helicon was affable and mild, and obedient to his Pa∣rents and Elders: but Cithaeron being covetous, and greedily gaping after the Estate, first kill'd his Father, and then treacherously threw his Brother down from a steep Precipice, but in striving together, fell himself along with him. Whence, by the Providence of the Gods, the Names of both the Mountains were chang'd. Cithaeron, by reason of his Impiety occasion'd the Fable of the Furies. Helicon, for the Young Man's Love to his Parents, became the Habitation of the Muses.

Hebrus. Now Mariza.

Hebrus is a River of Thrace deriving it's name from the many Gulphs and white-pools in the Water.

Cassander, King of that Region, having Marry'd Crotonice, had by her a Son whom he namd Hebrus:

But then being divorc'd from his first Wife, he Mar∣ry'd Damasippe, the Daughter of Atrax, and brought her home over his Sons Head; with whom the Mo∣ther in Law falling in Love, invited him by Let••ers to her Embraces. But he avoiding his Mother as a Fury, gave himself over to the sport of Hunting. On the other side, the Impious Woman mising her pur∣pose, bely'd the chast Youth, and accus'd him of At∣tempting to ravish her. Upon this Cassander, raging with jealousy, flew to the Wood in a wild fury, and with his Sword drawn pursu'd his Son, as one that treacherously sought to defile his Fathers Bed. Upon which, the Son finding he could no way escape his Fa∣thers wrath, threw himself into the River Rombus, which was afterwards call'd Hebrus, from the Name of the Young Man; as Timotheus testifies in his 'le∣venth Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Pangaeus so call'd upon this occasion. Pangaeus the Son of Mars and Crito∣bule, by a mistake lay with his own Daughter; which perplex'd him to that degree, that he fled to the Car∣manian Mountain; where overwhelm'd with a sorrow which he could not Master, he drew his Sword, and slew himself. Whence by the Providence of the Gods the Place was call'd Pan∣gaeus.

In the River before mention'd grows an Herb, not much unlike to Basil; the tops of which the Th••acians cropping off, burn upon a gentle fire; and after hard drinking hold their heads over the smoak, and snuff it up into their Nostrils, and l••t it go down their Throats, till at last they fall into a profound sleep.

Also upon the Mountain Pangaeus grows an Herb, which is call'd the Harp, upon this Occasion. The Women that tore Orpheus in pei••es, cast his Limbs in∣to the River Hebrus; and his Head being chang'd, the

whole body was turn'd into the shape of a Dragon. But as for his Harp, such was the Will of Apollo, it remain'd in the same form: and from the streaming Blood, grew up the Herb which was call'd the Harp; which during the solemnity of the Sacrifices to Bacchus sends forth a Sound like that of a Harp when play'd upon. At what time the Natives cover'd with the Skins of young Hinds, and waving their Thyrsus's in their hands, sing a Hymn of which these are part of the Words.

And then shalt thou be wise When folly does thy Brain surprize;

As Clitonymus reports, in his third Book of Tragical Relations.

Ganges.

Ganges is a River in India so call'd for this reason. A certain Calaurian Nymph, had by Indus a Son call'd Ganges, conspicuous for his Beauty. Who growing up to Manhood, and desperately overcome with Wine, in the heat of his Intoxication lay with his Mother Dio∣pithusa. The next day being inform'd by the Nurse of what he had done; such was the excess of his Sorrow, that he threw himself into a River call'd Chliarus, after∣wards call'd Ganges from his own Name.

In this River grows an Herb resembling Bugloss; which the Natives bruise, and keep the Juice very charily. With this Juice in the dead of the Night they go and besprinkle the Tigers Dens; The Vertue of which is such that the Tigers not being able to stir forth by reason of the strong Scent of the Juice, are starv'd to Death, as Callisthenes reports in his Third Book of Hunting.

Upon the Banks of this River lyes the Mountain call'd the Anatole, for this reason. The Sun, beholding the Nymph Anaxibia innocently spending her time in

the fields fell passionately in Love with her, and not able to curb his loose Amours, pursu'd her with a pur∣pose to ravish her. She therefore finding no other way to escape him fled to the Temple of Orthian Diana, which was seated upon the Mountain call'd Coryphe, and there immediately vanish'd away. Upon which the Deity, that follow'd her close at the Heels, not knowing what was become of his beloved, overwhelm'd with Grief, rose in that very place. And from this Accident it was that the Natives call'd the top of that Mountain Anatole, or the rising of the Sun. As Cae∣meron reports in his Tenth Book, Of the Affairs of India.

Phasis. Now Fasso, and Phazzeth.

Phasis is a River of Scythia, running by a City of the same Name. It was formerly call'd Arcturus, de∣riving its Name from the Scituation of the cold Regions through which it runs. But the name of it was al∣ter'd upon this occasion.

Phasis the Son of Sol, and Ocyrrhoe Daughter of O∣ceanus, slew his Mother whom he took in the very act of Adultery. For which being tormented by the Fu∣ries appearing to him, he threw himself into the Ri∣ver Arcturus, which was afterwards call'd by his own name Phasis.

In this River grows a Reed which is call'd Leuco∣phyllus, or the Reed with the White Leaf. This Reed is found at the dawning of the Morning Light, at what time the Sacrifices are offer'd to Heca••e, and this too, by the divine Inspiration of Pan, at the beginning of the Spring: when they who are troubl'd with jealous Heads gather this Reed, and strew it in their Wives Chambers to keep them chaste: And the Nature of this Reed is such, that if any wild extravagant Person happens to come rashly in drink into the room where it lyes, he presently becomes depriv'd of his rational

thoughts, and immediately confesses whatever he has wickedly done or intended to do. At what time they that are present to hear him, lay hold of him, sow him up in a Sack, and throw him into a hole call'd the Little-mouth of the Wicked, which is round like the mouth of a Well; which after thirty days empties the Body into the Lake Moeotis that is full of Worms; where of a suddain the Body is seiz'd and torn to pieces by several Vultures unseen before, nor is it known from whence they come; as Ktesippus relates in his se∣cond Book of Scythian Relations.

Nere to this River lyes the Mountain Caucasus, which was before call'd Boreas's Bed, upon this occasi∣on. Boreas in the heat of his amorous Passion ravish'd away by force Chloris the Daughter of Arcturus, and carry'd her to a certain Hill which was call'd Niphantes, and upon her begot a Son whom he call'd Harpax, who succeeded Heniochus in his Kingdom. For which rea∣son the Mountain was first call'd Boreas's Bed; but afterwards Caucasus upon this occasion. After the Fight of the Gyants, Saturn to avoid the Menaces of Jupiter, fled to the top of Boreas's Bed; and there being turn'd in∣to a Crocodile slew Caucasus one of the Sheperds-inhabiting that place, and observing the situation and disposition of his Entrails, foresaw that his Enemies were not far off. Presently Jupiter appearing and binding his Fa∣ther with a woollen List, threw him down to Hell. Then changing the name of the Mountain in Honour of the Shepherd Caucasus, he chain'd Prometheus to it, and caus'd him to be tormented by an Eagle that fed upon his Entrails, because he was the first that found out the inspection of Bowels▪ which Jupiter deem'd a great Cruelty. As Cleanthes relates in his Third Book, Of the Wars of the God••.

Upon this Mountain grows a•• Herb, which is call'd Pro∣metheon, which Medca gathering and bruising made use of to protect Jason aga••nst her Fathers obstinacy.

Arar. Now La Saone.

Arar, is a River in that part of France, formerly call'd Gallia Celtica, deriving the Name from its being mix'd with the River Rhodanus. For it falls into the Rhosne within the Country of the Allobroges. It was formerly call'd Brigulus, but afterwards chang'd its Name upon this occa∣sion. Arar, as he was a Hunting, entring into a Wood, and there finding his Brother Celtiber torn in pieces by the Wild Beasts, mortally wounded himself for grief, and fell into the River Morgulus; which from that accident was af∣terwards call'd by his own name Arar?

In this River there breeds a certain large Fish, which by the Natives is call'd Clupaea. This Fish during the increase of the Moon is white; but all the while the Moon is in the wain it is altogether black: and when it grows over bulky, is as it were stabb'd by its own Fins. In the head of it is found a Stone like a Corn of Salt, which being apply'd to the left Parts of the Body when the Moon is in the wain, cures Quartan Agues, as Callisthenes the Sybarite tells us in the thirteenth Book of Gallic Relations; from whom Timagenes the Syrian bor∣row'd his Argument.

Nere to this River stands a Mountain call'd Lugdunus which chang'd its name upon this occasion. When Momorus and Atepomorus were dethron'd by Seseroneus, in pursuance of the Oracles Command, they design'd to build a City upon the top of this Hill. But when they had laid the Foundations, great numbers of Crows with their Wings expanded cover'd all the neighbour∣ing Trees. Upon which Momorus being a Person well skill'd in Augury, call'd the City Lugdunum. For Lugon in their Language signify'd a Crow,

and Dunum any spacious Hill, or wide place; as Clitophon reports in his thirteenth Book of the Building of Cities.

Pactolus. Now Sarabat.

Pactolus is a River of Lydia that washes the Walls of Sardis, formerly call'd Chrysorrhoas. For Chrysorrheas, the Son of Apollo and Apathippe, being a Mechanic Ar∣tist, and one that only liv'd from hand to mouth upon his Trade, one time in the middle of the Night made bold to break open the Treasury of Croesus, and con∣veighing thence a good quantity of Gold made a di∣stribution of it to his Family: but being pursu'd by the King's Officers, when he saw he must be taken, he threw himself into the River which was afterward from his Name call'd Chrysorrhoas; afterwards chang'd into that of Pactolus upon this occasion.

Pactolus the Son of Jolis and Leucothea during the performance of the Mystenes sacred to Venus, ravish'd Demodice his own Sister, not knowing who she wa••. For which being overwhelm'd with Grief, he threw himself into the River Chrysorrhoas, which from that time forward was call'd Pactorus from his own Name.

In this River is found a most pure Gold Sand, which the force of the stream carries into the happy bosom of the River Hermus. Also in this River is to be found a Stone which is call'd Arourophylax (or the Preserver of the Fields) resembling the colour of Silver, very hard to be found, in regard of its being mixt with the Gold Sand. The Vertue of which is such, that the more wealthy Lydians buy it, and lay it at the doors of their Treasuries, by which means they preserve their Treasure, whatever it be, safe from the seizure of pilfering Hands. For upon the ap∣proach of Theives or Robbers the Stone sends forth

a sound like that of a Trumpet. Upon which the Theives surpriz'd and believing themselves appre∣hended by Officers, throw themselves headlong and break their Necks: insomuch that the Place where the Theives thus frighted come by their violent deaths is call'd Pactolus's Prison.

In this River also there grows an Herb that bears a Purple Flower, and is call'd Chrysopole; by which the Inhabitants of th•• Neighbouring Cities try their purest Gold. For just before they put their Gold into the Melting-Pot, they touch it with the Herb; at what time if it be pure and unmixt, the Leaves of the Herb will be tinctur'd with the Gold, and preserve the sub∣stance of the Matter; but if it be adulterated, they will not admit the discolouring moisture, as Chrysermus relates in his Third Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lies the Moun∣tain Tmolus full of all manner of Wild Beasts, formerly call'd Carma∣norion, from Carmanor the Son of Bacchus and Alexi∣thoe, who was kill'd, as he was a Hunting by a Wild-Boar; but afterward Tmolus upon this occasion.

Tmolus, the Son of Mars, and The••g••ne, King of Lydia, while he was a Hunting upon Carmanorion, chanc'd to see the fair Virgin Arrhipe, that attended upon Diana, and fell passionately in love with her. And such was the heat of his love, that not being able to gain her by fair means, he resolv'd to vitiate her by force; who seeing she could by no means escape h••s Fury otherwise, fled to the Temple of Diana: Where the Tyrant contemning all R••ligion, ravish'd her. An Infamy which the Nymph not being able to sur∣vive, immediately hang'd her se••••. But Diana would not pass by so great a Crime, and therefore to be re∣veng'd upon the King for his Irreligious Insolency, she set a mad Bull upon him, by which the King being

toss'd up in the Air, and falling down upon Stakes and Stones, ended his days in torment. But Theoctumenus his Son, so soon as he had Buried his Father, altered the name of the Mountain and call'd it Tmolus after his Fathers Name.

Upon this Mountain grows a Stone, not unlike a Pumice-stone, which is very rare to be found. This Stone changes it's color four times a day; and is only to be seen by Virgins that are not arriv'd at the Years of Understanding. But if Marriageable Virgins happen to see, they can never receive any Injury from those that attempt their chastity, as Clitophon reports.

Lycormas. Now Phidari.

Lycormas is a River of Etolia, formerly call'd Evenus for this Reason. Idas, the Son of Aphareus, after he had ravish'd away by violence Marpissa, with whom he was passionatly in love, carry'd her away to Pleuron (a City of Etolia). This rape of his Daughter Euenus could by no means endure, and therefore pursu'd after the treacherous ravisher till he came to the River Lycormas. But then despairing to overtake the fugitive, he threw himself for madness into the River, which from his own name was call'd Euenus.

In this River grows an Herb which is call'd Sarissa, because it resembles a Spear; of excellent use for those that are troubled with dim sight.

Nere to this River lies Myenus, from Myenus, the Son of Telestor, and Alphoesibea; who being belov'd by his Mother in Law, and unwilling to defile his Fathers Bed, retir'd himself to the Mountain Alphius. But Telestor being made jealous of his Wife, pursu'd his Son into the Wilder∣ness, and follow'd him so close that Myenus not being able to escape, flung himself headlong from the Top of the Moun∣tain, which for that reason was afterwards call'd Myenus.

Upon this Mountain grows a Flower call'd the

White-Violet, which if you do but name the Word Stepdame, presently dyes away; as Dercyllus reports in his Third Book of Mountains.

Meander. Now Madre.

Meander is a River of Asia, formerly call'd Anabai∣non, (or the Returner back): for of all Rivers in the World (except Neda) it is the only stream, which taking it's rise from it's own Fountain, seems to run back to it's own Head.

It is call'd Meander from Meander the Son of Cercaphus and Anaxibia, who waging War with the Pessinuntians, made a vow to the Mother of the Gods, that if he ob∣tain'd the Victory, he would Sacrifice the first that came to congratulate him for his good success. Now it hap∣pen'd that the first that met him were his Son Archelaus, his Mother, and his Sister. All which though so near∣ly related to him, he offer'd to the satisfaction of his vow. But then no less griev'd for what he had done, he cast himself into the River Anabainon, which from the accident was afterwards call'd by his own name Meander; as Timolaus tells us in his Tenth Book of Phrygian Relations. Agathocles the Samian also makes mention of this Story, in his Common-wealth of Pessi∣nuntum. But Demonstratus of Apamia relates the Story thus.

Meander being a second time elected General against the Pessinuntines, and obtaining the Victory quite con∣trary to his Expectation, gave to his Souldiers the Of∣ferings due to the Mother of the Gods. At which the Goddess being offended, she depriv'd him of his reason to that degree, that in the hight of h••s madness he slew both his Wife and his Son. But coming some∣what to himself, and repenting of what he had done, he threw himself into the River, which by his Name was call'd Meander.

In this River there is a certain Stone, which by Antiphrasis is call'd Sophron, or the Sober-stone; which if you drop into the Bosom of any Man, it presently makes him mad to that degree as to Murther his nearest Relations, but having once atton'd the Mother of the Gods, he is presently restor'd to his Wits, as Damaratus testifies in his Third Book of Rivers: And Archelaus makes mention of the same in his First Book of Stones.

Nere to this River lies the Moun∣tain Sipylus, so call'd from Sipylus the Son of Agenor and Dioxippe. For he having kill'd his Mother by mistake and being haunted with the Furies, retired to the Ceraunian Moun∣tain, and there hang'd himself for grief. After which by the Providence of the Gods the Mountain was call'd Sipylus.

In this Mountain grows a Stone that resembles a Cylinder, which when Children that are Obedient to their Parents find they lay it up in the Temple of the Mother of the Gods. Nor do they ever after transgress out of Impiety; but reverence their Parents and are Obedient to their Superior Relations; as Aga∣tharchides the Samian relates in his Fourth Book of Stones. And Damaratus in his Fourth Book of Phrygia.

Marsyas.

Marsyas is a River of Phrygia, flowing by the City Ketene, and formerly call'd the Fountain of Midas for this Reason. Midas, King of Phrygia, travelling in the remoter Parts of the Country, and wanting Water, stampt upon the Ground, and presently appear'd a Golden Fountain: but the Water proving Gold, and both he and his Souldiers being ready to perish for thirst, he invok'd

the compassion of Bacchus, who listning to his Prayers, supply'd him with Water. The Phrygians having by this means quench'd their thirst, Midas nam'd the Ri∣ver, that issu'd from the Spring, the Fountain of Midas. Afterwards it was call'd Marsyas upon this occasion.

Marsyas being overcome and flead by Apollo certain Satyrs are said to have sprung from the streams of his Blood; as also a River bearing the name of Marsyas, as Alexander Cornelius recites in his Third Book of Phrygian Relations. But Eumeridas the Phrygian tells the Story after this manner.

It happened that the Wine bag which was made of Marsyas's Skin being corroded by time, and carry'd away negligently by the wind, fell at last from the Land in∣to Midas's Well; and driving along with the stream, was taken up by a Fisher-man. At what time Pisi∣stratus the Lacedemonian being commanded by the Ora∣cle to build near the Place where the Relicks of the Satyr were found, reflected upon the accident, and in obedience to the Oracle having built a fair City, call'd it Noricum, which in the Phrygian Language sig∣nifies a Wine-bag.

In this River grows an Herb call'd, the Pipe or Flute; which being mov'd with the wind yields a melodious sound; as Dercyllus reports in his first Book of Satyrics.

Nere to this River also lyes the Mountain Berecyn∣thius, deriving it's name from Berecynthus, the first Preist to the Mother of the Gods. Upon this Moun∣tain is found a Stone which is call'd Machera, very much resembling Iron; which if any one happens to light upon, while the Solemnities of the Mother of the Gods are performing, he presently runs mad; as Aga∣tharchides reports in his Phrygian Relations.

Strymon, Now Stromona, Radini, and Marmara.

Strymon is a River of Thrace, that flows along by the City Aedonis, formerly call'd Palestinus from Palestinus the Son of Neptune. For he being at War with his Neighbors, and seiz'd with a violent sickness, sent his Son Alyacmon, to be General of his Army, who rashly giving Battle to his Enemies, was slain in the Fight. The tydings of which misfortune being brought to Palestinus, he privately withdrew himself from his Guards, and flung himself into the River Conozus, which from that accident was afterwards call'd Palestinus. But as for Strymon, he was the Son of Mars and Helice, who hearing that his Son, Rhesus was slain, flung himself into the River Palestinus, which was after that call'd Strymon, by his own Name.

In this River grows a Stone which is call'd Pausilypus, or the Greif easing Stone. This Stone, if any one find who is oppress'd with Greif, he shall presently be eas'd of his Sorrow; as Jason of Byzantium relates in his Tragics.

Nere to this River lye the Mountains Rhodope and† Hae∣mus, who being Brother and Sister, and both falling in love with each other, the one was so presumptuous as to call his Sister his Juno, the other to call her Bro∣ther her Jupiter; which so offended the Deities, that they changed them into Mountains, bearing their own Names.

In these two Mountains grow certain Stones, which are call'd Philadelphi, or the Loving Brethren. These Stones are of a Crow Colour, and resembling human Shape, and if they chance to be nam'd when they are separated one from another, they presently and sepa∣rately,

as they lye dissolve and waste away; as Thra∣syllus the Mendesian testifies in his third Book of Stones; but more accurately in his Book of Tragies.

Sagaris. Now Zagari and Sangari.

Sagaris is a River of Phrygia, formerly call'd Xeraba∣tes, because in the Summer time it was generally dry. But it was call'd Sagaris for this Reason. Sagaris, the Son of Myndon and Alexiroe, contemning and slighting the Mysteries of the Mother of the Gods, frequently affronted and derided her Priests and Galli. At which the Goddess heinously offended▪ struck him with Mad∣ness, to that degree, that in one of his raging Fits, he flung himself into the River Xerabates, which from that time forward, was call'd Sagaris.

In this River grows a Stone, which is call'd Autogry∣phus, that is naturally engrav'd; for it is found, with the Mother of the Gods by Nature engrav'd upon it. This Stone, which is rarely to be found, if any of the Galli, or guelded Priests happen to light upon, he makes no wonder at it, but undauntedly brooks the Sight of a preternatural Action; as Aretazes reports in his Phrygian Relations.

Nere to this River, lyes the Mountain Baleneus, which in the Phrygian Language signifies Royal: so call'd from Baleneus, the Son of Ganymed and Medesigiste, who perceiving his Father almost wasted with a Con∣sumption, instituted the Ballenean Festival, ••bserv'd among the Natives to this Day.

In this River is to be found a Stone call'd Aster, which from the latter end of Autumn, shines at Mid∣night like Fire. It is call'd in the Language of the Na∣tives, Ballen, which signifies a King, as Hermesianax the Cyprian affirms in his second Book of his Phrygian Rela∣tions.

Scamander. Now Scamandro.

Scamander is a River of Troas, which was formerly call'd Xanthus, but chang'd its Name upon this Occasi∣on. Scamander the Son of Coribas and Demodice, having suddainly expos'd himself while the Mysteries of Rhea were solemnizing, immediately ran mad, and being hurry'd away by his own Fury to the River Xanthus, flung himself into the Stream, which from thence was call'd Scamander.

In this River grows an Herb, like a Vetch, that bears a Cod with Berries ratling in it when they are ripe, whence it deriv'd the Name of Sistron, or the Rattle: This Herb, whoever has in his Possession, fears not the Ap∣paritions either of Gods or D••vils; as Demostratus writes in his Second Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lyes the Mountain Ida, formerly Gargarus; on the Top of which stand the Altars of Ju∣piter, and the Mother of the Gods. But it was call'd Ida upon this occasion. Aegysthus, who descended from Disphorus, falling passionately in Love with the Nymph Ida, obtain'd her good-will, and begat the Idaean Dactyly, or Priests of the Mother of the Gods. After which, Ida running mad in the Temple of Rhea, Egysti∣us, in remembrance of the Love which he bare her, call'd the Mountain by her Name.

In this Mountain grows a Stone call'd Cryphius, as being never to be found, but when the Mysteries of the Gods are solemnizing; as Heraclitus the Sicyonian writes in his Second Book of Stones.

Tanais. Now the River Don.

Tanais is a River of Scythia, formerly call'd the Ama∣zonian River, because the Amazons bath'd themselves therein; but alter'd its Name upon this Occasion. Ta∣nais, the Son of Berossus and Lysippe, one of the Ama∣zons,

became a vehement Hater of the Female Sex, and looking upon Marriage as ignominious and dishonora∣ble, apply'd himself wholly to Martial Affairs. Which so offended Venus, that she caus'd him to fall passionate∣ly in Love with his own Mother. True it is, at first he withstood the Force of his Passion, but finding he could not vanquish the fatal Necessity of yielding to Diving Impulse, and yet desirous to preserve his Respect and Piety toward his M••ther, he flung himself into the Amazonian River, which was afterwar•• call'd Tanis, from the Name of the young Man.

In this River grows a Plant which is call'd Halinda, resembling a Colewort. Which the Inhabitants bruis∣ing, and anointing their Bodies with the Juice of it, find themselves in a Condition 〈◊〉〈◊〉 able to•• d•••••• the Extremity of the Cold; and for that reason, in ••heir own Language, they call it Beross••s's Oyl.

In this River grows a Stone not un i••e to Crystal, resembling the Shape of a Man, with a ••rown upon his Head. This Stone, whoever finds when the King dyes, and has it ready against the time that the People meet upon the Banks of the River to choose a new Soveraign, is presently elected King, and receives the Scepter of the deceased Prince: As Ctesiphon relates in his Third Book of Plants; and Aristobulus gives us the same Account in his First Book of Stones.

Nere to this River also lyes a Mountain, in the Lan∣guage of the Natives, call'd Brix∣aba, which signifies the Fore∣head of a Ram. And it was so call'd upon this Occasion. Phryx∣us having lost his Sister Helle nere the Euxine Sea, and as Na∣ture in Justice requir'd, being extreamly troubl'd for his Loss, retir'd to the top of a certain Hill to disburthen himself of his Sorrow. At what time certain Barbarians

espying him, and mounting up the Hill with their Arms in their Hands, a golden fleec'd Ram leaping out of a Thicket, and seeing the Multitude coming, with articu∣late Language, and the Voice of a Man, awaken'd Phryxus fast asleep, as being tir'd with his Journey, and oppress'd with Sorrow, and taking him up upon his Back, carry'd him to Colchos; and from this Accident it was that the mountainous Promontory was call'd the Rams Forehead.

In this Mountain grows an Herb, by the Barbarians call'd Phryxa, not unlike our common Rue. Which if the Son of a former Mother have in his Possession, he can never be injur'd by his Step-dame. It chiefly grows nere the Place which is call'd Boreas's Den, and being gather'd, is colder then Snow. But if any Step-dame be forming a Design against her Son-in-law, it sets it self on Fire, and sends forth a bright Flame. By which means, they who are thus warn'd, avoid the Danger they are in; as Agatho the Samian testifies in his second Book of the Scythian Relations.

THERMODON.

Thermodon is a River of Scythia, deriving its Name from the Accident. It was formerly call'd Chrystallus, as being often frozen in the Summer, the Situation of the Place producing that Effect. But the Name was alter'd upon this occasion.

Caetera Desunt. NILE.

Nilus is a River of Egypt, that runs by the City of Alexandria. It was formerly call'd Melas, from Melas the Son of Neptune; but afterwards it was call'd Egyptus, upon this occasion. Egyptus, the Son of Vulcan and Leu∣cippe, was formerly King of the Country, between

whom and his own Subjects, happen'd a Civil War. At what time the River Nile not increasing, the Egypti∣ans were opprest with Famine. Upon which the Ora∣cle made Answer, that the Land should be again blest with Plenty, if the King would sacrifice his Daughter, to attone the Anger of the Gods. Upon which the King, though greatly afflicted in his Mind, gave way to the publick Good, and suffer'd his Daughter to be lead to the Altar. But so soon as she was sacrific'd, the King not able to support the Burthen of his Grief, threw himself into the River Melas, which after that was call'd Egyptus. But then it was call'd Nilus upon this Occasion.

Garmathone, Queen of Egypt, having lost her Son Chry∣sochoa, while he was yet very young, with all her Ser∣vants and Friends, most bitterly bemoan'd her Loss. At what time Isis appearing to her, she surceas'd her Sor∣row for a while, and putting on the Countenance of a feigned Gratitude, kindly entertain'd the Goddess. Who willing to make a suitable Return to the Queen for the Piety which she express'd in her Reception, perswaded Osiris to bring back her Son from the subterraneal Re∣gions. Which when Osiris undertook to do, at the Op∣portunity of his Wife, Cerberus, whom some call Phobe∣ros, or the Terrible, barkt so loud, that Nilus, Germathone's Husband struck with a sudden Frenzy, threw himself into the River Egyptus, which from thence was after∣wards call'd Nilus.

In this River grows a Stone, not unlike to a Bean, which so soon as any Dog happens to see, he ceases to bark. It also expels the Evil Spirit out of those that are pos∣sess'd, if held to the Nostrils of the Party afflicted.

There are other Stones which are found in this Ri∣ver, call'd Kollotes, which the Swallows picking up a∣gainst the time that Nilus overflows, build up the Wall which is cal••'d the Chelidoman Wall, which restrains the Inundation of the Water, and will not suffer the Coun∣try

to be injur'd by the Fury of the Flood; as Thrasyllus tells us in his Relations of Egypt.

Upon this River lyes the Mountain Argyllus, so call'd for this Reason.

Jupiter in the Heat of his amorous Desires, ravish'd away the Nimph Arge from Lyctum, a City of Creete, and then carry'd her to a Mountain of Egypt, call'd Argillus, and there begat a Son, whom he nam'd Diony∣sius, who growing up to years of Manhood, in Honor of his Mother, call'd the Hill Argillus; and then muster∣ing together an Army of Pans and Satyrs, first con∣quer'd the Indians, and then subduing Spain, left Pan behind him there the chief Commander and Governor of those Places, who by his own Name call'd that Country Pania, which was afterwards by his Posterity call'd Spania; as Sosthenes relates in his Ibeian Relation.

Eurotas. Now Basilipotamo.

Himerus, the Son of the Nymph Taygete and Lacedaemon, through the Anger of offended Venus, at a Revelling that lasted all Night, deflowr'd his Sister Cleodice, not knowing what he did. But the next Day, being inform'd of the Truth of the Matter, he lay'd it so to heart, that through excess of Grief, he flung himself into the Ri∣ver Marathon, which from thence was call'd Himeros; but after that Eurotas, upon this Occasion.

The Lacedaemonians being at War with the Athenians, and staying for the Full Moon, Eurotas their Captain General, despising all Religion, would needs fight his Enemies, though at the same time it thunder'd and light∣en'd as if Heaven and Earth would have come together. However, having lost his Army, the Ignominy of his Loss so incessantly perplext him, that he flung himself into the River Himerus, which from that Accident was afterwards call'd Eurotas.

In this River grows a Stone which is shap'd like a

Helmet, call'd Thrasydeilos, or Rash and Timorous. For if it hears a Trumpet sound, it leaps toward the Bank of the River; but if you do but name the Athenians, it pre∣sently sinks to the bottom of the Water. Of these Stones there are not a few which are consecrated and laid up in the brazen Temple of Minerva, as Nicanor the Samian relates in his second Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lyes the Mountain Taygetus, deriving its Name from the Nymph Taygete, who after Jupiter had deflowr'd her, ended her days for Grief, upon the Mountain Ar∣mycleus, which from thence was call'd Taygetus.

Upon this Mountain grows a Plant call'd Charisium, which the Women at the beginning of the Spring ty'd about their Necks, to make themselves more passionately to be belov'd by Men; as Cleanthes reports in his First Book of Mountains. But Sosthenes the Cnidian is more accurate in the Relation of these things, from whom Hermogenes borrow'd the Subject of his Writing.

Inachus.

Inachus is a River in the Territories of Argos, former∣ly call'd Carmanor. Afterwards Halyacmon, for this Reason.

Halyacmon, a Tyrinthian by Birth, while he kept Sheep upon the Mountain Coccigium, happen'd against his Will to see Jupiter and Rhea spor••ing together; for which be∣ing strook mad, and hurry'd by the Violence of the Frenzie, he flung himself into the River Carmanor, which after that was call'd Halyacmon. Afterwards it was call'd Inachus upon this Occasion.

Inachus, the Son of Oceanus, after that Jupiter had de∣flowr'd his Sister Io, pursu'd the Deity close at the Heels, blaspheming and cursing him all the way as he went. Which so offended Jupiter, that he sent Tisiphone, one of the Furies, who haunted and plagu'd him to tha••

degree, that he flung himself into the River Halyacmon, afterwards call'd by his own Name Inachus.

In this River grows an Herb call'd Cyura, not unlike our common Rue. Which the Women that desire to miscarry without any Danger, lay upon their Navels, being first steep'd in Wine.

There is also found in this River, a certain Stone, not unlike a Beryl, which in the Hands of a false Witness will grow black. Of these Stones there are ma∣ny laid up in the Temple of Prosymnea Juno; as Timosthenes relates in his Argelicks, and A∣tho the Samian, in his second Book of Rivers.

Agathocles the Milesian in his History of Rivers, also adds, that Inachus for his Impiety was Thunder-strook by Jupiter, and so the River dry'd up.

Nere to this River, lye the Mountains Mycaenae, Apae∣santus, Coccygium, and Athaeneus; so call'd for these Reasons. Apaesantus was first call'd Selenarius. But Juno resolving to be reveng'd upon Hercules, call'd the Moon to her Assistance, who by the help of her magical Charms, fill'd a large Chest full of Foam and Froth, out of which sprang an immense Lyon; which Iris binding with her own Girdle, carry'd to the Mountain Opheltium, where the Lyon kill'd Apiesantus, one of the Shepherds belong∣ing to that Place: and from that Accident, by the Will of the Gods, the Hill was call'd Apesantus; as Demodocus writes in his first Book of the History of Hercules.

In this River grows an Herb call'd Selene, or the Moon, with the Froth of which being gather'd in the Spring, the Shepherds anoint their Feet, and keep them from be∣ing bit or stung by any creeping Vermine.

The Mountains of Mycenae were formerly call'd Ar∣gyon, from the many-ey'd Argos; but afterwards the name was chang'd upon this occasion.

When Perseus had slain Medusa, Stheno and Euriale Sisters to her that was kill'd, pursu'd him as a Murderer. But coming to this Hill, and despairing to overtake him, out of that extream love which they had for their Sister, they made such a howling noise, that the Natives from thence call'd the top of the Mountain Mycaenae, us Cnesias the Ephesian relates in his first Book of the Acts of Perseas. But Chrysermus the Corinthian relates the story thus in the first Book of his Peloponnesiacs. For he says, that when Perseas was carry'd aloft in the Air, when he lit upon this Mountain, he lost the Chape of his Scabbard. At what time this same Gorgophonos, or Gorgon-slayer, King of the Epidaurians, being ex∣pell'd his Kingdom, receiv'd this answer upon his consul∣ting the Oracle, that he should visit all the Cities of the Argolic Territory, and that where he found the Chape of a Scabbard, he should build a City. Thereupon coming to the Mountain Argolic, call'd in the Greek 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, and finding there an Ivory Scabbard, he built a City, and from the Accident, call'd it Mycenae.

In this Mountain there is found a Stone which is call'd Corybas, of a Crow colour, which he that finds and wears about him, shall never be afraid of any mon∣strous Apparitions. As for the Mountain Apesantus, this may be added, that Apesantus, the Son of Acrisicus, as he was a Hunting in that place, chanc'd to tread upon a venomous Serpent, which occasion'd his Death. Whom when his Father had buried, in memory of his Son, he nam'd the Hill Apesantus, which before was call'd Setinuntius.

The Mountain Coccygium deriv'd its Name from this Accident. Jupiter falling desperately in Love with his Sister Juno, and having vanquish'd her by his Importu∣nity, begot a Male Child. From whence the Moun∣tain

before call'd Dicaeus, was nam'd Coccygium; as Aga∣tho relates in his Persis.

In this Mountain grows a Tree, which is call'd Pali∣nurus, upon the Boughs of which whatever Fowl hap∣pens to perch, they are presently entangl'd as it were with Bird-lime, and cannot stir; only the Cuccow it lets go free, without any harm; as Ctesiphon testifies in his first Book of Trees.

As for the Mountain Athenaeus, it derives its Name from Minerva. For after the destruction of Troy, Diomede returning to Argos, ascend∣ed▪ the Mountain Recaunius, and there erecting a Temple to Minerva, call'd the Mountain Athenaeus from her Name Athena.

Upon the top of this Mountain grows a Root like to that of Rue, which if any Woman unwarily taste of, she presently runs Mad; This Root is call'd Adrastia, as Phesi∣machus writes in his Second Book of the Returns of the Hero's.

Alpheius. Now Carbon, or Darbon.

Alpheius is a River of Arcadia running by the Walls of Pisa a City of Olympia (or as others would have it wash∣ing the feet of the Mountain Olymphius) formerly call'd Stymphelus, from Stymphelus the Son of Mars and Dormo∣thea, who having lost his Brother Alcmaeon, threw him∣self for Grief into the River Nyctimus, for that reason call'd Stymphelus: afterwards it was call'd Alpheius upon this occasion.

Alpheius, one of those that derives his descent from the Sun, contending with his Brother Kerkaphus about Courage and Vertue, slew him: for which being

chas'd away and pursu'd by the Shepherds, he flung himself into the River Nyctimus, which after that was call'd Alpheius.

In this River grows a Plant which is call'd Kenchrytis, resembling a Honey-Comb, the Decoction of which being given by the Physitians to those that are Mad, cures them of their Phrensy; as Ctesias relates in his first Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lyes the Mountain Cronium, so call'd upon this occasion. After the Giants War, Saturn to avoid the Threats of Jupiter, fled to the Mountain Cturus, and call'd it Cronium from his own Name. Whe••e after he had absconded for sometime, he took his op∣portunity, and retir'd to Caucasus in Scythia.

In this Mountain is found a Stone, which is call'd the Cylinder, upon this occasion. For as oft as Jupiter either Thunders or Lightens, so often this Stone, through fear rowles down from the top of the Mountain; as Dercyllus writes in his first Book of Stones.

Euphrates. Now Frat.

Euphrates is a River of Parthia washing the Walls of Babylon (now Bagdat) formerly call'd Medus from Me∣dus, the Son of Artaxerxes. He, in the heat of his Lust, having ravish'd away and deflowr'd Roxane, and finding that he was sought after by the King, in order to be brought to punishment, threw himself into the River Zaranda, which from thence forward was call'd by his name Medus. Afterwards it was call'd Euphrates up∣on this occasion.

Euphrates the Son of Arandacus finding his Son Axurta a Bed with his Mother, and thinking him to be some one of his Courtiers, provok'd by his Jealousy, he drew his Sword, and nail'd him to the Bed. But perceiving himself the Author of what could not be recall'd, he flung himself for Grief into the River Medus, which

from that time forward was call'd by his Name Euphrates.

In this River grows a Stone call'd Asterites, which Mid-wives applying to the Navils of Women that are in hard Labor, causes them to bring forth with little pain.

In the same River also there grows an Herb which is call'd Exalla or Axalla, which signifies Heat. This Stone they that are troubl'd with Quartan Agues, ap∣plying to their Breasts, are presently deliver'd from the Fit, as Chrysermus writes in his Thirteenth Book of Rivers.

Nere this River lyes the Mountain Drimyllus, where grows a Stone, not unlike a Sardenyx, worn by Kings and Princes upon their Diadems, and greatly available against dimness of sight, as Micias Mallotes writes in his Book of Stones.

Caicus. Now Girmasti, Castri, and Chiay.

Caicus is a River of Mysia formerly call'd Astraeus from Astraeus the Son of Neptune. For he, in the height of Minerva's Nocturnal Solemnities having deflowr'd his Sister by a mistake, took a Ring at the same time from her Finger; by which when he understood the next day the Error which he had committed, for grief he threw himself headlong into the River Adurus, which from thence was call'd Astraeus. Afterwards it came to be call'd Caicus upon this occasion.

Caicus, the Son of Hermes and Ocyerhoc the Nymph, having slain Timander one of the Noble Men of the Country, and fearing the revenge of his Relations, flung himself into the River Astraeus, which from that accident was call'd Caicus.

In this River grows a sort of Poppy, which instead of Flowers bears several Stones. Of these, there are some which are black and shap'd like Harps; which the Mysians throw upon their plough'd Lands; and if the Stones lye still in the place where they are thrown, 'tis a sign of a Barren Year; but if they fly away like

so many Locusts, they prognosticate a plentiful Harvest.

In the same River also grows an Herb which is call'd Elipharmacus, which the Physitians apply to such as are troubl'd with immoderate fluxes of Blood, as having a peculiar Vertue to stop the Orifices of the Veins; according to the Relation of Timagoras in his first Book of Rivers.

Adjoyning to the Banks of this River lies the Mountain Teuthras, so call'd from Teuthras King of the Mysians. Who in pursuance of his Sport, as he was a Hunting, ascending the Hill Thrasyllus, and seeing a Monstrous Wild-Boar, follow'd him close with the rest of his Train. On the other side the Boar to prevent the Hunters, like a suppliant, fled to the Temple of Orthosian Diana, into which when the Hunters were about to force their en∣trance, the Boar in Articulate Words cry'd out, spare, O King, the Nursery of the Goddess. However Teuthras, exalted with his good Success, kill'd the poor Boar. At which Diana was so highly offended, that she restor'd the Boar to Life, but struck the Offender with a scurf and madness. Which Affliction the King not endu∣ring, betook himself to the Tops of the Mountains. But his Mother Leucippe, understanding what had befallen her Son, ran to the Forrest, taking along with her the Sooth sayer Polyidon, the Son of Cyanus, by whom being inform'd of all the several Circumstances of the Matter, by many sacrifices she at last atton'd the Anger of the Goddess, and having quite recover'd and cured her Son, erected an Altar to Orthosian Diana, and caus'd a Golden Boar to be made with a Mans-Face; which to this day if pursu'd by the Hunters, seems to enter the Temple, and speaks with the Voice of a Man. Thus Teuthras being restor'd to his former Health, call'd the Mountain by his own name Teuthras.

In this Mountain grows a Stone call'd Antipaths, or the Resister, which is of excellent Vertue to cure Scabs

and Leprosies, being powder'd and mix'd with Wine; as Cnidius tells us in his Second Book of Mountains.

Achelous. Now Astropotomo, Geromlea, and Pachicolmo.

Acheolus is a River of Aetolia for∣merly call'd Thestius. This The∣stius was the Son of Mars and Pesi∣dice, who upon some Domestic discontent, travell'd as far as Sicyon, where after he had resided for some time, he return'd to his Native home. But finding there his Son Calydon and his Mother both upon the Bed together, believing him to be an Adulterer, he slew his own Child by a mistake. But when he beheld the un∣fortunate and unexpected Fact he had committed, he threw himself into the River Axenos, which from thence was afterwards call'd Thestius: And after that, Achelous upon this Occasion.

Achelous the Son of Oceanus and the Nymph Nais, ha∣ving deflowr'd his Daughter Clestoria, flung himself for grief into the River Thestius, which then by his own name was call'd Achelous.

In this River grows an Herb, which they call Zaclon, very much resembling Wool, this if you bruise and cast into Wine, it becomes Water, and preserves the smell but not the Vertues of the Wine.

In the same River also is found a certain Stone of a mixt Black and Lead color, call'd Linurgus from the effect; for if you throw it upon a Linnen-cloth, by a certain effectionate Union it assumes the shape of the Linnen, and turns white, as Antisthenes relates in the Third Book of his Meleagris; though Diocles the Rhodian more accurately tells us the same thing in his Aetolics.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Calydon, so call'd from Calydon the Son of Mars and Astigone; For that he by an accident having seen Diana bathing her

self, was transform'd into a Rock, and the Mountain which before was nam'd Gyron, was afterwards call'd Calydon.

Upon this Mountain grows an Herb call'd Myops, which if any one steep in Water, and washes his Face with it, he shall loose his sight, but upon his attoning Di∣ana, shall recover it again; as Dercyllus writes in his Third Book of Aetolics.

Araxes, Now Arass, Arais, Achlar and Caiacs.

Araxes is a River in Armenia, so call'd from Araxus the Son of Pylus. For he contending with his Grand-Father Arbelus for the Empire, stabb'd him with an Arrow. For which being haunted by the Furies, he threw himself into the River Baetros, for that reason call'd Araxes; as Ctesiphon testifies in his First Book of Persian Affairs. Araxes King of the Armenians, being at War with his Neighbours the Persians, before they came to a Battle, was told by the Oracle that he should win the Victories, if he sacrific'd to the Gods two of the most noble Virgins in his Kingdom. Now he out of his paternal Affection to his Children, spar'd hi•• own Daughters, and caus'd two lovely Virgins, the Daughters of one of his Nobility to be laid upon the Altar. Which Mnesalkes, the Father of the Victims laying to heart, for a time conceal'd his Indignation, but afterwards, observing his opportunity, kill'd both the Kings Daughters, and then leaving his native Soyl fled into Scythia. Which when Araxes understood, for grief he threw himself into the River Halmus, which then was alter'd, and the River call'd Araxes.

In this River grows a Plant which is call'd Araxa, which in the Language of the Natives signifies a Virgin Hater. For that if it happen to be found by any Vir∣gin, it falls a bleeding and dyes away.

In the same River there is also found a Stone, of a

black color, call'd Sicyorus. This Stone when the Ora∣cle advises the sacrificing of a human Victim, is laid upon the Altar of the Mischief diverting Gods. And then, no sooner does the Priest but touch it with his Knife but it sends forth a stream of Blood; at what time the superstitious sacrificers retire and with howlings and loud Ohonings carry the Stone to the Temple, as Doritheus the Caldaean relates in his Second Book of Stones.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Diorphus; so call'd from Diorphus, the Son of the Earth; of whom this Story is reported. Methras desirous to have a Son, yet hating Woman-kind, lay with a Stone till he had heated it to that degree, that the Stone grew big, and at the prefix'd time was deliver'd of a Son, call'd Diorphos, who growing up and contending with Mars for cou∣rage and stoutness was by him slain; and the Moun∣tain where the Contender was buried was call'd Dior∣phos by his Name.

In this Mountain grows a Tree, not unlike a Pome∣granate-Tree, which yields plenty of Apples, in taste like Grapes. Now if any one gather the ripest of this Fruit, and do but name Mars while he holds it in his hand, it will presently grown green again, as Ctesiphon Witnesses in his Third Book of Trees.

Tigris. Now Tegil, Sir, and Ser.

Tigris is a River of Armenia, flow∣ing into Araxes and the Lake of Arsacis, formerly call'd Sollax, which signifies running and carry'd downward. It was call'd Tigris upon this occasion.

Bacchus, through the Anger of Juno, running mad, wander'd over-Sea and Land, desirous to be quit of his

Distemper. At length coming into Armenia, and not being able to pass the River before mentioned, call'd upon Jupiter, who listning to his Prayers, sent him a Tiger that carry'd him safely over the Water; in re∣membrance of which Accident he call'd the River Tigris, as Theophilus relates in his First Book of Stones. But Hermesianax tells the Story thus.

Bacchus falling in Love with the Nymph Alphesiboea, and being able to vanquish her neither with Presents nor Intreaties, turn'd himself into the shape of the Ri∣ver Tigris and overcoming his Beloved by fear, took her away, and carrying her over the River, begot a Son whom he call'd Medus; who growing up in Years, in remembrance of the accident call'd the River by the Name of Tigris; as Aristonymus relates in his Third Book.

In this River a Stone is to be found call'd Myndan very White; which whoever enjoys, shall never be hurt by wild Beasts; as Leo of Byzantium testifies in his Third Book of Rivers.

Nere to this River lies the Mountain Gauran; so call'd from Gauran the Son of the Satrap of the Province of Roxanes; who being extreamly Religious and Devout toward the Gods, receiv'd this reward of his Piety, that of all the Persians he only liv'd three hundred Years; and dying at last without being ever afflicted with any Disease, was buried upon the Top of the Mountain Gau∣ran, where he had a sumptuous Monument erected to his Memory. Afterwards, by the Providence of the Gods the name of the Mountain was chang'd to that of Mausorus.

In this Mountain grows an Herb, which is like to Wild-Barley. This Herb the Natives heat over the fire, and anointing themselves with the Oyl of it, are never sick, till the necessity of dying overtakes them, as Sostratus writes in his First Collection of Fa∣bulous History.

Indus. Now Sinde.

Indus is a River in India flowing with a rapid violence into the Country of the Fish-devourers. It was first call'd Mausolus, from Mausolus the Son of the Sun, but chang'd it's name for this reason.

At the time when the Mysteries of Bacchus were so∣lemniz'd, and that the People were earnest at their De∣votion, Indus one of the chief of the Young-Nobility, by force deflowr'd Damasalkidas, the Daughter of Oxyalcus the King of the Country, as she was carrying the Sa∣cred-Basket, or Canistrum; for which being sought for by the Tyrant, in order to bring him to condign Punishment, for fear he threw himself into the River Mausolus, which from that accident was afterwards call'd Indus.

In this River grows a certain Stone call'd Carpyce which if a Virgin carry about her, she need never be afraid of being deflower'd.

In the same River also grows an Herb, which is call'd Carpyce, not unlike to Bugloss. Which is an Ex∣cellent Remedy against the Kings-Evil, being admini∣ster'd to the Patient in warm-water; as Clitophon, the Rhodian, reports in his First Book of Indian Relations.

Nere to this Mountain lies the Mountain Lileus, so call'd from Lileus a Shepherd; who being very super∣stitious, and a sole-worshipper of the Moon, always per∣form'd her Mysteries in the dead time of the Night: Which the rest of the Gods taking for a great disho∣nour, sent two Monstrous Lions that tore him in pieces Upon which the Moon turn'd her Adorer into a Moun∣tain of the same name.

In this Mountain a Stone is found which is call'd Clitoris, of a very Black-color, which the Natives wear for Ornaments-sake, at the solemn sacrifices which they make after their escape from any Danger or Sickness; as Aristotle Witnesses in his Fourth Book of Rivers.

Notes

• Now Citherone.
• Now Mal••ca and Castagna.
• Where now stands the Cities of Cham∣bery, St. Jean Mou∣sters, Geneva, Gre∣noble and Vienne.
• Now Lyons.
• Whence proba∣bly our English word Down.
• Now Tomali••ze.
• Now Cusinas.
• Afterwards call'd Apamia, now Apamiz, poor and uninhabited.
• He was slain at Troy by Diome.
• Now by the Greeks, Basiliss••: by the Itali∣ans, Monte Argentaro.
• †

  Now by the Turks, Balkan; by the Salaveni∣ans, Cumoniza; by the Italians, Catena del mondo.
• Now Tanar, or Ta∣mar, a high Promonto∣ry in the Tauric Cher∣sonese, or Chrim Tar∣tarie.
• Now Portes, and Monte di Sperlunga.
• So call'd from Pro∣symne, a City in the Ter∣ritory of the Argives.
• Now Agios, Adria∣nos in the Morea.
• Which seems to be a better reason why the Mountain should be call'd Coccygium, then that before gi∣ven. In regard that C••ccyx in Greek sig∣nifies a Cuccow.
• Rather Lysimachus.
• Now, il Despotato.
• Now B••silica or Vasilica in the Morea.
• Saxum Sarrivit, ac∣cording to that of Martial, Quid Sarrire si velit Saxum?
• Now Lac de Va∣stan, or Mer d'Arme∣nie.