Unto other habitations the same point will be both East and West; as

unto those that are _Antipodes_ or seated in points of the Globe

diametrically opposed. So the _Americans_ are Antipodal unto the

_Indians_, and some part of _India_ is both East and West unto

_America_, according as it shall be regarded from one side or the other,

to the right or to the left; and setting out from any middle point,

either by East or West, the distance unto the place intended is equal,

and in the same space of time in nature also performable.

To a third that have the Poles for their vertex, or dwell in the

position of a parallel sphere, there will be neither East nor West, at

least the greatest part of the year. For if (as the name _Oriental_

implyeth) they shall account that part to be East where ever the Sun

ariseth, or that West where the Sun is occidental or setteth: almost

half the year they have neither the one nor the other. For half the year

it is below their Horizon, and the other half it is continually above

it, and circling round about them intersecting not the Horizon, nor

leaveth any part for this compute. And if (which will seem very

reasonable) that part should be termed the Eastern point, where the Sun

at Æquinox, and but once in the year ariseth, yet will this also disturb

the cardinal accounts, nor will it with propriety admit that

appellation. For that surely cannot be accounted East which hath the

South on both sides; which notwithstanding this position must have. For

if unto such as live under the Pole, that he only North which is above

them, that must be Southerly which is below them, which is all the other

portion of the by Globe, beside that part possessed them. And thus these

points of East and West being not absolute in any, respective in some,

and not at all relating unto others; we cannot hereon establish so

general considerations, nor reasonably erect such immutable assertions,

upon so unstable foundations.

Now the ground that begat or promoted this conceit, was first a mistake

in the apprehension of East and West, considering thereof as of the

North and South, and computing by these as invariably as by the other;

but herein, upon second thoughts there is a great disparity. [SN: _What

the Northern and Southern Poles be._] For the North and Southern Pole,

are the invariable terms of that Axis whereon the heavens do move; and

are therefore incommunicable and fixed points; wherof the one is not

apprehensible in the other. But with East and West it is quite

otherwise: for the revolution of the Orbs being made upon the Poles of

North and South, all other points about the Axis are mutable; and

wheresoever therein the East point be determined, by succession of parts

in one revolution every point becometh East. And so if where the Sun

ariseth, that part be termed East, every habitation differing in

longitude, will have this point also different; in as much as the Sun

successively ariseth unto every one.

The second ground, although it depend upon the former, approacheth

nearer the effect; and that is the efficacy of the Sun, set out and

divided according to priority of ascent; whereby his influence is

conceived more favourable unto one Countrey than another, and to

felicitate _India_ more than any after. But hereby we cannot avoid

absurdities, and such as infer effects controulable by our senses. For

first, by the same reason that we affirm the _Indian_ richer than the

_American_, the _American_ will also be more plentiful than the

_Indian_, and _England_ or _Spain_ more fruitful than _Hispaniola_ or

golden Castle: in as much as the Sun ariseth unto the one sooner than

the other: and so accountably unto any Nation subjected unto the same

parallel, or with a considerable diversity of longitude from each other.

Secondly, An unsufferable absurdity will ensue: for thereby a Country

may be more fruitful than it self: For _India_ is more fertile than

_Spain_, because more East, and that the Sun ariseth first unto it:

_Spain_, likewise by the same reason more fruitful than _America_, and

_America_ than _India_: so that _Spain_ is less fruitful than that

Countrey, which a less fertile Country than it self excelleth.

Lastly, If we conceive the Sun hath any advantage by priority of ascent,

or makes thereby one Country more happy than another, we introduce

injustifiable determinations, and impose a natural partiality on that

Luminary, which being equidistant from the earth, and equally removed in

the East as in the West, his Power and Efficacy in both places must be

equal, as _Boetius_ hath taken notice, and _Scaliger_ [SN: De gemmis

exercitat.] hath graphically declared. Some have therefore forsaken this

refuge of the Sun, and to salve the effect have recurred unto the

influence of the Stars, making their activities National, and

appropriating their Powers unto particular regions. So _Cardan_

conceiveth the tail of _Ursa Major_ peculiarly respecteth _Europe_:

whereas indeed once in 24 hours it also absolveth its course over _Asia_

and _America_. And therefore it will not be easie to apprehend those

stars peculiarly glance on us, who must of necessity carry a common eye

and regard unto all Countries, unto whom their revolution and verticity

is also common.

The effects therefore or different productions in several Countries,

which we impute unto the action of the Sun, must surely have nearer and

more immediate causes than that Luminary. And these if we place in the

propriety of clime, or condition of soil wherein they are produced, we

shall more reasonably proceed, than they who ascribe them unto the

activity of the Sun. Whose revolution being regular, it hath no power

nor efficacy peculiar from its orientality, but equally disperseth his

beams unto all, which equally, and in the same restriction, receive his

lustre. And being an universal and indefinite agent, the effects or

productions we behold, receive not their circle from his causality, but

are determined by the principles of the place, or qualities of that

region which admits them. And this is evident not only in gemms,

minerals, and mettals, but observable in plants and animals; whereof

some are common unto many Countries, some peculiar unto one, some not

communicable unto another. [SN: _Whence proceed the different

commodities of several Countries._] For the hand of God that first

created the earth, hath with variety disposed the principles of all

things; wisely contriving them in their proper seminaries, and where

they best maintain the intention of their species; whereof if they have

not a concurrence, and be not lodged in a convenient matrix, they are

not excited by the efficacy of the Sun; or failing in particular causes,

receive a relief or sufficient promotion from the universal. For

although superiour powers co-operate with inferiour activities, and may

(as some conceive) carry a stroke in the plastick and formative draught

of all things, yet do their determinations belong unto particular

agents, and are defined from their proper principles. Thus the Sun which

with us is fruitful in the generation of Frogs, Toads and Serpents, to

this effect proves impotent in our neighbour Island; wherein as in all

other carrying a common aspect, it concurreth but unto predisposed

effects; and only suscitates those forms, whose determinations are

seminal, and proceed from the _Idea_ of themselves.

[Sidenote: _Why Astrological judgments upon Nativities be taken from the

Ascendent._]

Now whereas there be many observations concerning East, and divers

considerations of Art which seem to extol the quality of that point, if

rightly understood they do not really promote it. That the Astrologer

takes account of nativities from the Ascendent, that is, the first house

of the heavens, whose beginning is toward the East, it doth not

advantage the conceit. For, he establisheth not his Judgment upon the

orientality thereof, but considereth therein his first ascent above the

Horizon; at which time its efficacy becomes observable, and is conceived

to have the signification of life, and to respect the condition of all

things, which at the same time arise from their causes, and ascend to

their Horizon with it. Now this ascension indeed falls out respectively

in the East: but as we have delivered before, in some positions there is

no Eastern point from whence to compute these ascentions. So is it in a

parallel sphere: for unto them six houses are continually depressed, and

six never elevated: and the planets themselves, whose revolutions are

of more speed, and influences of higher consideration, must find in that

place a very imperfect regard; for half their period they absolve above,

and half beneath the Horizon. And so for six years, no man can have the

happiness to be born under _Jupiter_: and for fifteen together all must

escape the ascendent dominion of _Saturn_.

That _Aristotle_ in his Politicks, commends the situation of a City

which is open towards the East, and admitteth the raies of the rising

Sun, thereby is implied no more particular efficacy than in the West:

But that position is commended, in regard the damps and vaporous

exhalations ingendered in the absence of the Sun, are by his returning

raies the sooner dispelled; and men thereby more early enjoy a clear and

healthy habitation. Upon the like considerations it is, that _Marcus

Varro_ [SN: De re Rustica.] commendeth the same situation, and exposeth

his farm unto the equinoxial ascent of the Sun, and that _Palladius_

adviseth the front of his edifice should so respect the South, that in

the first angle it receive the rising raies of the Winter Sun, and

decline a little from the Winter setting thereof. And concordant

hereunto is the instruction of _Columella De positione villæ_: which he

contriveth into Summer and Winter habitations, ordering that the Winter

lodgings regard the Winter ascent of the Sun, that is South-East; and

the rooms of repast at supper, the Æquinoxial setting thereof, that is

the West: that the Summer lodgings regard the Æquinoxial Meridian: but

the rooms of cænation in the Summer, he obverts unto the Winter ascent,

that is, South-East; and the Balnearies or bathing places, that they may

remain under the Sun until evening, he exposeth unto the Summer

setting, that is, North-West, in all which although the Cardinal points

be introduced, yet is the consideration Solary, and only determined unto

the aspect or visible reception of the Sun.

_Jews_ and _Mahometans_ in these and our neighbour parts are observed to

use some gestures towards the East, as at their benediction, and the

killing of their meat. And though many ignorant spectators, and not a

few of the Actors conceive some Magick or Mysterie therein, yet is the

Ceremony only Topical, and in a memorial relation unto a place they

honour. So the _Jews_ do carry a respect and cast an eye upon

_Jerusalem_: for which practice they are not without the example of

their fore-fathers, and the encouragement of their wise King; For so it

is said that _Daniel_ [SN: _Dan._ 6.] went into his house, and his

windows being opened towards _Jerusalem_, he kneeled upon his knees

three times a day, and prayed. So is it expressed in the prayer of

_Solomon_, what prayer or supplication soever be made by any man, which

shall spread forth his hands towards this house: if thy people go out to

battle, and shall pray unto the Lord towards the City which thou hast

chosen, and towards the house which I have chosen to build for thy Name,

then hear thou in heaven their prayer and their supplication, and

maintain their cause. Now the observation hereof, unto the Jews that are

dispersed Westward, and such as most converse with us, directeth their

regard unto the East: But the words of _Solomon_ are appliable unto all

quarters of Heaven: and by the Jews of the East and South must be

regarded in a contrary position. So _Daniel_ in _Babylon_ looking toward

_Jerusalem_ had his face toward the West. So the Jews in their own land

looked upon it from all quarters. For the Tribe of _Judah_ beheld it to

the North: _Manasses_, _Zabulon_, and _Napthali_ unto the South:

_Reuben_ and _Gad_ unto the West; only the Tribe of _Dan_ regarded it

directly or to the due East. So when it is said [SN: _Luke_ 12.], when

you see a cloud rise out of the West, you say there cometh a shower, and

so it is: the observation was respective unto _Judea_: nor is this a

reasonable illation in all other Nations whatsoever: For the Sea lay

West unto that Country, and the winds brought rain from that quarter;

But this consideration cannot be transferred unto _India_ or _China_,

which have a vast Sea Eastward, and a vaster Continent toward the West.

So likewise when it is said [SN: _Job._] in the vulgar Translation, Gold

cometh out of the North, it is no reasonable inducement unto us and many

other Countries, from some particular mines septentrional unto his

situation, to search after that mettal in cold and Northern regions,

which we most plentifully discover in hot and Southern habitations.

For the _Mahometans_, as they partake with all Religions in something,

so they imitate the _Jew_ in this. For in their observed gestures, they

hold a regard unto _Mecha_ and _Medina Talnabi_, two Cities in _Arabia

fælix_, where their Prophet was born and buried; whither they perform

their pilgrimages: and from whence they expect he should return again.

And therefore they direct their faces unto these parts, which unto the

_Mahometans_ of _Barbary_ and _Egypt_ lie East, and are in some point

thereof unto many other parts of _Turkie_. Wherein notwithstanding there

is no Oriental respect; for with the same devotion on the other side

they regard these parts toward the West, and so with variety wheresover

they are seated, conforming unto the ground of their conception.

Fourthly, Whereas in the ordering of the Camp of _Israel_, the East

quarter is appointed unto the noblest Tribe, that is the Tribe of

_Judah_, according to the command of God [SN: _Num. 3._], in the

East-side toward the rising of the Sun shall the Standard of the Tribe

of _Judah_ pitch: it doth not peculiarly extol that point. For herein

the East is not to be taken strictly, but as it signifieth or implieth

the foremost place; for _Judah_ had the Van, and many Countries through

which they passed were seated Easterly unto them. Thus much is implied

by the Original, and expressed by Translations which strictly conform

thereto: So _Tremelius_, _Castra habentium ab anteriore parte Orientem

versus, vexillum esto castrorum Judæ_; so hath _R. Solomon Jarchi_

expounded it, the foremost or before, is the East quarter, and the West

is called behind. And upon this interpretation may all be salved that is

alleageable against it. For if the Tribe of _Judah_ were to pitch before

the Tabernacle at the East, and yet to march first, as is commanded,

_Numb._ 10. there must ensue a disorder in the Camp, nor could they

conveniently observe the execution thereof: For when they set out from

_Mount Sinah_ where the Command was delivered, they made Northward unto

_Rithmah_; from _Rissah_ unto _Eziongaber_ about fourteen stations they

marched South: From _Almon Diblathaim_ through the mountains of

_Yabarim_ and plains of _Moab_ towards _Jordan_ the face of their march

was West: So that if _Judah_ were strictly to pitch in the East of the

Tabernacle, every night he encamped in the Rear: and if (as some

conceive) the whole Camp could not be less than twelve miles long, it

had been preposterous for him to have marched foremost; or set out first

who was most remote from the place to be approached.

Fiftly, That Learning, Civility and Arts had their beginning in the

East, it is not imputable either to the action of the Sun, or its

Orientality, but the first plantation of Man in those parts, which unto

_Europe_ do carry the respect of East. [SN: _Where the Ark rested as

some think._] For on the mountains of _Ararat_, that is part of the hill

_Taurus_, between the _East Indies_ and _Scythia_, as Sir _W. Raleigh_

accounts it, the Ark of _Noah_ rested; from the East they travelled that

built the Tower of _Babel_: from thence they were dispersed and

successively enlarged, and Learning, good Arts, and all Civility

communicated. The progression whereof was very sensible; and if we

consider the distance of time between the confusion of _Babel_, and the

Civility of many parts now eminent therein, it travelled late and slowly

into our quarters. For notwithstanding the learning of _Bardes_ and

_Druides_ of elder times, he that shall peruse that work of _Tacitus de

moribus Germanorum_, may easily discern how little Civility two thousand

years had wrought upon that Nation: the like he may observe concerning

our selves, from the same Author in the life of _Agricola_, and more

directly from _Strabo_; who to the dishonour of our Predecessors, and

the disparagement of those that glory in the Antiquity of their

Ancestors, affirmeth the _Britains_ were so simple, that though they

abounded in Milk, they had not the Artifice of Cheese.

Lastly, That the Globe it self is by Cosmographers divided into East and

West, accounting from the first Meridian, it doth not establish this

conceit. For that division is not naturally founded, but artificially

set down, and by agreement; as the aptest terms to define or

commensurate the longitude of places. Thus the ancient Cosmographers do

place the division of the East and Western Hemisphere, that is the first

term of longitude in the Canary or fortunate Islands; conceiving these

parts the extreamest habitations Westward: But the Moderns have altered

that term, and translated it unto the Azores or Islands of St.

_Michael_; and that upon a plausible conceit of the small or insensible

variation of the Compass in those parts, wherein nevertheless, and

though upon second invention, they proceed upon a common and no

appropriate foundation; for even in that Meridian farther North or South

the Compass observably varieth; and there are also other places wherein

it varieth not, as _Alphonso_ and _Rodoriges de Lago_ will have it about

_Capo de las Agullas_ in _Africa_; as _Maurolycus_ affirmeth in the

shore of _Peleponesus_ in _Europe_: and as _Gilbertus_ averreth, in the

midst of great regions, in most parts of the earth.

CHAPTER VIII

Of the River _Nilus_.

Hereof uncontroulably and under general consent many opinions are

passant, which notwithstanding upon due examination, do admit of doubt

or restriction. It is generally esteemed, and by most unto our days

received, that the River of _Nilus_ hath seven ostiaries; that is, by

seven Channels disburdeneth it self into the Sea. Wherein

notwithstanding, beside that we find no concurrent determination of ages

past, and a positive and undeniable refute of these present, the

affirmative is mutable, and must not be received without all limitation.

For some, from whom we receive the greatest illustrations of Antiquity,

have made no mention hereof: So _Homer_ hath given no number of its

Channels, nor so much as the name thereof in use with all Historians.

_Eratosthenes_ in his description of _Egypt_ hath likewise passed them

over. [SN: How Egypt first became firm land.] _Aristotle_ is so

indistinct in their names and numbers, that in the first _of Meteors_ he

plainly affirmeth the Region of _Egypt_ (which we esteem the ancientest

Nation in the world) was a meer gained ground, and that by the setling

of mud and limous matter brought down by the River _Nilus_, that which

was at first a continued Sea, was raised at last into a firm and

habitable Country. The like opinion he held of _Mæotis Palus_, that by

the floods of _Tanais_ and earth brought down thereby, it grew

observably shallower in his days, and would in process of time become a

firm land. And though his conjecture be not as yet fulfilled, yet is the

like observable in the River _Gihon_, a branch of _Euphrates_ and River

of Paradise; which having in former Ages discharged it self into the

_Persian_ Sea, doth at present fall short; being lost in the lakes of

_Chaldea_, and hath left between the Sea, a large and considerable part

of dry land.

Others expresly treating hereof, have diversly delivered themselves;

_Herodotus_ in his Euterpe makes mention of seven; but carelesly of two

thereof; that is _Bolbitinum_, and _Bucolicum_; for these, saith he,

were not the natural currents, but made by Art for some occasional

convenience. _Strabo_ in his Geography naming but two, _Peleusiacum_ and

_Canopicum_, plainly affirmeth there were many more than seven; _Inter

hæc alia quinque_, etc. There are (saith he) many remarkable towns

within the currents of Nile, especially such which have given the names

unto the ostiaries thereof, not unto all, for they are eleven, and four

besides, but unto seven and most considerable; that is _Canopicum_,

_Bolbitinum_, _Selenneticum_, _Sebenneticum_, _Pharniticum_,

_Mendesium_, _Taniticum_ and _Pelusium_: wherein to make up the number,

one of the artificial chanels of _Herodotus_ is accounted. _Ptolomy_ an

_Egyptian_, and born at the _Pelusian_ mouth of _Nile_, in his Geography

maketh nine: and in the third Map of _Africa_, hath unto their mouths

prefixed their several names; _Heracleoticum_, _Bolbitinum_,

_Sebenneticum_, _Pineptum_, _Diolcos_, _Pathmeticum_, _Mendesium_,

_Taniticum_, _Peleusiacum_: wherein notwithstanding there are no less

then three different names from those delivered by _Pliny_. All which

considered, we may easily discern that Authors accord not either in name

or number; and must needs confirm the Judgement of _Maginus_, _de

Ostiorum Nili numero et nominibus, valde antiqui scriptores discordant_.

Modern Geographers and travellers do much abate of this number, for as

_Maginus_ and others observe, there are now but three or four mouths

thereof; as _Gulielmus Tyrius_ long ago, and _Bellonius_ since, both

ocular enquirers, with others have attested. For below _Cairo_, the

River divides it self into four branches, whereof two make the chief and

navigable streams, the one running to _Pelusium_ of the Ancients, and

now _Damiata_; the other unto _Canopium_, and now _Roscetta_; the other

two, saith Mr. _Sandys_ [SN: Sand. Relation.], do run between these; but

poor in water. Of those seven mentioned by _Herodotus_, and those nine

by _Ptolomy_, these are all I could either see or hear of. Which much

confirmeth the testimony of the Bishop of _Tyre_ a diligent and ocular

Enquirer; who in his holy war doth thus deliver himself. We wonder much

at the Ancients, who assigned seven mouths unto _Nilus_; which we can no

otherwise salve, then that by process of time, the face of places is

altered, and the river hath lost his chanels; or that our fore-fathers

did never obtain a true account thereof.

And therefore when it is said in holy Scripture [SN: _Isa._ 11. 15,

16.], The Lord shall utterly destroy the tongue of the _Egyptian_ sea,

and with his mighty wind he shall shake his hand over the river, and

shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dry-shod. If

this expression concerneth the river _Nilus_, it must only respect the

seven principal streams. But the place is very obscure, and whether

thereby be not meant the river _Euphrates_, is not without some

controversie; as is collectible from the subsequent words; And there

shall be an high way for the remnant of his people, that shall be left

from _Assyria_; and also from the bare name _River_, emphatically

signifying _Euphrates_, and thereby the division of the _Assyrian_

Empire into many fractions, which might facilitate their return: as

_Grotius_ hath observed [SN: Gr. Not in Isaiam.]; and is more plainly

made out, if the _Apocrypha_ of _Esdras_ [SN: _Esdr._ 2. 13, 43, 47.],

and that of the _Apocalyps_[SN: _Apoc._ 16. 12.] have any relation

hereto.

Lastly, Whatever was or is their number, the contrivers of Cards and

Maps afford us no assurance or constant description therein. For whereas

_Ptolemy_ hath set forth nine, _Hondius_ in his Map of _Africa_ makes

but eight, and in that of _Europe_ ten. _Ortelius_ in the Map of the

_Turkish_ Empire, setteth down eight, in that of _Egypt_ eleven; and

_Maginus_ in his Map of that Country hath observed the same number. And

if we enquire farther, we shall find the same diversity and discord in

divers others.

Thus may we perceive that this account was differently related by the

Ancients, that it is undeniably rejected by the Moderns, and must be

warily received by any. For if we receive them all into account, they

were more then seven, if only the natural sluces, they were fewer; and

however we receive them, there is no agreeable and constant description

thereof. And therefore how reasonable it is to draw continual and

durable deductions from alterable and uncertain foundations; let them

consider who make the gates of _Thebes_, and the mouths of this River a

constant and continued periphrasis for this number, and in their

Poetical expressions do give the River that Epithite unto this day.

The same River is also accounted the greatest of the earth, called

therefore _Fluviorum pater_, and _totius Orbis maximus_, by _Ortelius_:

If this be true, many Maps must be corrected, or the relations of divers

good Authors renounced.

For first, In the deliniations of many Maps of _Africa_, the River

_Niger_ exceedeth it about ten degrees in length, that is, no less then

six hundred miles. For arising beyond the Æquator it maketh Northward

almost 15 degrees, and deflecting after Westward, without Meanders,

continueth a strait course about 40 degrees; and at length with many

great currents disburdeneth it self into the Occidental Ocean. Again, if

we credit the descriptions of good Authors, other Rivers excell it in

length, or breadth, or both. _Arrianus_ in his history of _Alexander_,

assigneth the first place unto the River _Ganges_; which truly according

unto latter relations, if not in length, yet in breadth and depth may be

granted to excell it. For the magnitude of _Nilus_ consisteth in the

dimension of longitude, and is inconsiderable in the other; what stream

it maintaineth beyond _Syene_ or _Asna_, and so forward unto its

original, relations are very imperfect; but below these places, and

farther removed from the head, the current is but narrow, and we read in

the History of the _Turks_, the _Tartar_ horsemen of _Selimus_ swam over

the _Nile_ from _Cairo_, to meet the forces of _Tonumbeus_. Baptista

Scortia expresly treating hereof, [SN: _De natura et incremento Nili._]

preferreth the River of _Plate_ in _America_; for that as _Maffeus_ hath

delivered, falleth into the Ocean in the latitude of forty leagues; and

with that source and plenty that men at Sea do tast fresh water, before

they approach so near as to discover the land. So is it exceeded by that

which by _Cardan_ is termed the greatest in the world, that is the River

_Oregliana_ in the same continent; which as _Maginus_ delivereth, hath

been navigated 6000 miles; and opens in a chanel of ninety leagues

broad; so that, as _Acosta_, an ocular witness recordeth, they that sail

in the middle, can make no land of either side.

Now the ground of this assertion was surely the magnifying esteem of the

Ancients, arising from the indiscovery of its head. For as things

unknown seem greater then they are, and are usually received with

amplifications above their nature; so might it also be with this River,

whose head being unknown and drawn to a proverbial obscurity, the

opinion thereof became without bounds; and men must needs conceit a

large extent of that to which the discovery of no man had set a period.

And this an usual way to give the superlative unto things of eminency in

any kind; and when a thing is very great, presently to define it to be

the greatest of all. Whereas indeed Superlatives are difficult; whereof

there being but one in every kind, their determinations are dangerous,

and must not be made without great circumspection. [SN: _The greatest

Cities of the World._] So the City of Rome is magnified by the _Latines_

to be the greatest of the earth; but time and Geography informs _us_,

that _Cairo_ is bigger, and _Quinsay_ in _China_ far exceedeth both.

[SN: The highest Hills.] So is _Olympus_ extolled by the _Greeks_, as an

hill attaining unto heaven; but the enlarged Geography of aftertimes

makes slight account hereof, when they discourse of _Andes_ in _Peru_,

or _Teneriffa_ in the _Canaries_. And we understand by a person who hath

lately had a fair opportunity to behold the magnified mount _Olympus_,

that it is exceeded by some peakes of the _Alpes_. So have all Ages

conceived, and most are still ready to swear, the Wren is the least of

Birds; yet the discoveries of _America_, and even of our own Plantations

have shewed us one far less; that is, the Humbird [SN: Tomineio.], not

much exceeding a Beetle. And truly, for the least and greatest, the

highest and the lowest of every kind, as it is very difficult to define

them in visible things, so is it to understand in things invisible. Thus

is it no easie lesson to comprehend the first matter, and the affections

of that which is next neighbour unto nothing, but impossible truly to

comprehend God, who indeed is all in all. For things as they arise unto

perfection, and approach unto God, or descend to imperfection, and draw

nearer unto nothing, fall both imperfectly into our apprehensions; the

one being too weak for our conceptions, our conceptions too weak for the

other.

Thirdly, Divers conceptions there are concerning its increment or

inundation. The first unwarily opinions, that this encrease or annual

overflowing is proper unto _Nile_, and not agreeable unto any other

River; which notwithstanding is common unto many Currents of _Africa_.

For about the same time the River _Niger_ and _Zaire_ do overflow; and

so do the Rivers beyond the mountains of the Moon, as _Suama_, and

_Spirito Santo_. And not only these in _Africa_, but some also in

_Europe_ and _Asia_; for so it is reported of _Menan_ in _India_, and so

doth _Botero_ report of _Duina_ in _Livonia_; and the same is also

observable in the River _Jordan_ in _Judea_; for so is it delivered,

that _Jordan_ overfloweth all his banks in the time of harvest.

The effect indeed is wonderful in all, and the causes surely best

resolvable from observations made in the Countries themselves, the parts

through which they pass, or whence they take their Original. That of

_Nilus_ hath been attempted by Many, and by some to that despair of

resolution, that they have only referred it unto the Providence of God,

and his secret manuduction of all things unto their ends. [SN: The cause

of the overflowing of Nilus.] But divers have attained the truth, and

the cause alledged by _Diodorus_, _Seneca_, _Strabo_, and others, is

allowable; that the inundation of _Nilus_ in _Egypt_ proceeded from the

rains in _Æthiopia_, and the mighty source of waters falling towards the

fountains thereof. For this inundation unto the _Egyptians_ happeneth

when it is winter unto the _Æthiopians_; which habitations, although

they have no cold Winter (the Sun being no farther removed from them in

Cancer, then unto us in Taurus) yet is the fervour of the air so well

remitted, as it admits a sufficient generation of vapors, and plenty of

showers ensuing thereupon. This Theory of the Ancients is since

confirmed by experience of the Moderns; by _Franciscus Alvarez_, who

lived long in those parts, and left a description of _Æthiopia_;

affirming that from the middle of June unto September, there fell in his

time continual rains. As also _Antonius Ferdinandus_, who in an Epistle

written from thence, and noted by _Codignus_, affirmeth, that during the

winter, in those Countries there passed no day without rain.

Now this is also usual, to translate a remarkable quality into a

propriety, and where we admire an effect in one, to opinion there is not

the like in any other. With these conceits do common apprehensions

entertain the antidotal and wondrous condition of _Ireland_; conceiving

only in that land an immunity from venemous creatures: but unto him that

shall further enquire, the same will be affirmed of _Creta_, memorable

in ancient stories, even unto fabulous causes, and benediction from the

birth of _Jupiter_. The same is also found in _Ebusus_ or _Evisa_, an

Island near _Majorca_ upon the coast of _Spain_. With these

apprehensions do the eyes of neighbour Spectators behold _Ætna_, the

flaming mountain in _Sicilia_; but Navigators tell us there is a burning

mountain in Island, a more remarkable one in _Teneriffa_ of the

_Canaries_, and many Vulcano's or fiery Hils elsewhere. Thus Crocodiles

were thought to be peculiar unto _Nile_, and the opinion so possessed

_Alexander_, that when he had discovered some in _Ganges_, he fell upon

a conceit he had found the head of _Nilus_; but later discoveries affirm

they are not only in _Asia_ and _Africa_, but very frequent in some

rivers of _America_.

Another opinion confineth its Inundation, and positively affirmeth, it

constantly encreaseth the seventeenth day of June; wherein perhaps a

larger form of speech were safer, then that which punctually prefixeth a

constant day thereto. For this expression is different from that of the

Ancients, as _Herodotus_, _Diodorus_, _Seneca_, etc. delivering only

that it happeneth about the entrance of the Sun into Cancer; wherein

they warily deliver themselves, and reserve a reasonable latitude. So

when _Hippocrates_ saith, _Sub Cane et ante Canem difficiles sunt

purgationes_: There is a latitude of days comprised therein; for under

the Dog-star he containeth not only the day of its ascent, but many

following, and some ten days preceeding. So _Aristotle_ delivers the

affections of animals: with the wary terms of _Circa, et magna ex

parte_: and when _Theodorus_ translateth that part of his, _Coeunt

Thunni et Scombri mense Februario post Idus, pariunt Junio ante Nonas_:

_Scaliger_ for _ante Nonas_, renders it _Junii initio_; because that

exposition affordeth the latitude of divers days: For affirming it

happeneth before the Nones, he alloweth but one day; that is the

Calends; for in the _Roman_ account, the second day is the fourth of the

Nones of June.

Again, Were the day definitive, it had prevented the delusion of the

devil, nor could he have gained applause by its prediction; who

notwithstanding (as _Athanasius_ in the life of _Anthony_ relateth) to

magnifie his knowledge in things to come, when he perceived the rains to

fall in _Æthiopia_, would presage unto the _Egyptians_ the day of its

inundation. And this would also make useless that natural experiment

observed in earth or sand about the River; by the weight whereof (as

good Authors report) they have unto this day a knowledge of its

encrease.

Lastly, It is not reasonable from variable and unstable causes, to

derive a fixed and constant effect, and such are the causes of this

inundation, which cannot indeed be regular, and therefore their effects

not prognosticable like Eclipses. For depending upon the clouds and

descent of showers in _Æthiopia_, which have their generation from

vaporous exhalations, they must submit their existence unto

contingencies, and endure anticipation and recession from the movable

condition of their causes. And therefore some years there hath been no

encrease at all, as some conceive in the years of Famin under _Pharaoh_,

as _Seneca_, and divers relate of the eleventh year of _Cleopatra_; nor

nine years together, as is testified by _Calisthenes_. Some years it

hath also retarded, and came far later then usually it was expected, as

according to _Sozomen_ and _Nicephorus_ it happened in the days of

_Theodosius_; whereat the people were ready to mutiny, because they

might not sacrifice unto the River, according to the custom of their

Predecessors.

Now this is also an usual way of mistake, and many are deceived who too

strictly construe the temporal considerations of things. Thus books will

tell us, and we are made to believe that the fourteenth year males are

seminifical and pubescent; but he that shall enquire into the

generality, will rather adhere unto the cautelous assertion of

_Aristotle_, that is, _bis septem annis exactis_, and then but _magna ex

parte_. That Whelps are blind nine days, and then begin to see, is

generally believed, but as we have elsewhere declared, it is exceeding

rare, nor do their eye-lids usually open until the twelfth, and

sometimes not before the fourteenth day. And to speak strictly, an

hazardable determination it is unto fluctuating and indifferent effects,

to affix a positive Type or Period. For in effects of far more regular

causalities, difficulties do often arise, and even in time it self,

which measureth all things, we use allowance in its commensuration. Thus

while we conceive we have the account of a year in 365 days, exact

enquirers and Computists will tell us, that we escape 6 hours, that is a

quarter of a day. And so in a day which every one accounts 24 hours, or

one revolution of the Sun, in strict account we must allow the addition

of such a part as the Sun doth make in his proper motion, from West to

East, whereby in one day he describeth not a perfect Circle.

Fourthly, It is affirmed by many, and received by most, that it never

raineth in _Egypt_, the river supplying that defect, and bountifully

requiting it in its inundation: but this must also be received in a

qualified sense, that is, that it rains but seldom at any time in the

Summer, and very rarely in the Winter. [SN: _That_ Egypt _hath rain_.]

But that great showers do sometimes fall upon that Region, beside the

Assertion of many Writers, [SN: _Sir_ William Paston _Baronet_.] we can

confirm from honourable and ocular testimony, and that not many years

past, it rained in Grand _Cairo_ divers days together.

The same is also attested concerning other parts of _Egypt_, by _Prosper

Alpinus_, who lived long in that Country, and hath left an accurate

Treaty of the medical practise thereof. _Cayri raro decidunt pluviæ,

Alexandriæ, Pelusiiq; et in omnibus locis mari adjacentibus, pluit

largissime et sæpe_; that is, it raineth seldom at _Cairo_, but at

_Alexandria_, _Damiata_, and places near the Sea, it raineth plentifully

and often. Whereto we might add the latter testimony of Learned Mr.

_Greaves_, in his accurate description of the _Pyramids_.

Beside, Men hereby forget the relation of holy Scripture. [SN: _Exod._

9.] _Behold I will cause it to rain a very great hail, such as hath not

been in_ Egypt _since the foundation thereof, even untill now_. Wherein

God threatning such a rain as had not happened, it must be presumed they

had been acquainted with some before, and were not ignorant of the

substance, the menace being made in the circumstance. The same

concerning hail is inferrible from _Prosper Alpinus. Rarissime nix,

grando_, it seldom snoweth or haileth. Where by we must concede that

snow and hail do sometimes fall, because they happen seldom.

Now this mistake ariseth from a misapplication of the bounds or limits

of time, and an undue transition from one unto another; which to avoid,

we must observe the punctual differences of time, and so distinguish

thereof, as not to confound or lose the one in the other. For things may

come to pass, _Semper, Plerumq; Sæpe, aut Nunquam, Aliquando, Raro_;

that is, Always, or Never, For the most part, or Sometimes, Ofttimes, or

Seldom. Now the deception is usual which is made by the mis-application

of these; men presently concluding that to happen often, which happeneth

but sometimes: that never, which happeneth but seldom; and that alway,

which happeneth for the most part. So is it said, the Sun shines every

day in Rhodes, because for the most part it faileth not. So we say and

believe that a Camelion never eateth, but liveth only upon air, whereas

indeed it is seen to eat very seldom, but many there are who have beheld

it to feed on Flyes. And so it is said, that children born in the eighth

moneth live not, that is, for the most part, but not to be concluded

alwaies: nor it seems in former ages in all places: for it is otherwise

recorded by _Aristotle_ concerning the births of _Egypt_.

Lastly, It is commonly conceived that divers Princes hath attempted to

cut the Isthmus or tract of land [SN: Lingua maris Ægyptii. _Isa. 11.

15._] which parteth the _Arabian_ and _Mediterranean_ Sea: but upon

enquiry I find some difficulty concerning the place attempted; many with

good authority affirming, that the intent was not immediately to unite

these Seas, but to make a navigable chanel between the Red Sea and the

Nile, the marks whereof are extant to this day; it was first attempted

by _Sesostris_, after by _Darius_, and in a fear to drown the Country,

deserted by them both; but was long after re-attempted and in some

manner effected by _Philadelphus_. And so the grand Signior who is Lord

of the Country, conveyeth his Gallies into the Red Sea by the Nile; for

he bringeth them down to Grand _Cairo_ where they are taken in pieces,

carried upon Camels backs, and rejoyned together at Sues, his port and

Naval station for that Sea; whereby in effect he acts the design of

_Cleopatra_, who after the battle of _Actium_ in a different way would

have conveyed her Gallies into the Red Sea.

And therefore that proverb to cut an Isthmus [SN: Isthmum perfodere.],

that is, to take great pains, and effect nothing, alludeth not unto this

attempt; but is by _Erasmus_ applyed unto several other, as that

undertaking of the Cnidians to cut their Isthmus, but especially that of

_Corinth_ so unsuccessfully attempted by many Emperours. The Cnidians

were deterred by the peremptory disswasion of _Apollo_, plainly

commanding them to desist; for if God had thought it fit, he would have

made that Country an Island at first. But this perhaps will not be

thought a reasonable discouragement unto the activity of those spirits

which endeavour to advantage nature by Art, and upon good grounds to

promote any part of the universe; nor will the ill success of some be

made a sufficient determent unto others; who know that many learned men

affirm, that Islands were not from the beginning, that many have been

made since by Art, that some Isthmus have been eat through by the Sea,

and others cut by the spade: And if policy would permit, that of

_Panama_ in _America_ were most worthy the attempt: it being but few

miles over, and would open a shorter cut unto the East Indies and

China.

CHAPTER IX

Of the Red Sea.

Contrary apprehensions are made of the Erythræan or Red Sea; most

apprehending a material redness therein, from whence they derive its

common denomination; and some so lightly conceiving hereof, as if it had

no redness at all, are fain to recur unto other originals of its

appellation. [SN: _What the Red Sea is._] Wherein to deliver a distinct

account, we first observe that without consideration of colour it is

named the _Arabian Gulph_: The Hebrews who had best reason to remember

it, do call it _Zuph_, or the weedy Sea; because it was full of sedge,

or they found it so in their passage; the _Mahometans_ who are now lords

thereof do know it by no other name then the _Gulph_ of _Mecha_ a City

of _Arabia_.

The stream of Antiquity deriveth its name from King _Erythrus_; so

sleightly conceiving of the nominal deduction from Redness, that they

plainly deny there is any such accident in it. The words of _Curtius_

are plain beyond Evasion, _Ab Erythro rege inditum est nomen, propter

quod ignari rubere aquas credunt_: Of no more obscurity are the words of

_Philostratus_, and of later times, _Sabellicus; Stulte persuasam est

vulgo rubras alicubi esse maris aquas, quin ab Erythro rege nomen pelago

inditum_. Of this opinion was _Andræas Corsalius_, _Pliny_, _Solinus_,

_Dio Cassius_, who although they denied not all redness, yet did they

rely upon the original from King _Erythrus_. [SN: _More exactly hereof_

Bochartus _and Mr._ Dickinson.]

Others have fallen upon the like, or perhaps the same conceit under

another appellation; deducing its name not from King _Erythrus_, but

_Esau_ or _Edom_, whose habitation was upon the coasts thereof. Now

_Edom_ is as much as _Erythrus_, and the red Sea no more then the

_Idumean_; from whence the posterity of _Edom_ removing towards the

Mediterranean coast, according to their former nomination by the Greeks

were called Phœnicians or red men: and from a plantation and colony

of theirs, an Island near Spain was by the Greek describers termed

_Erithra_, as is declared by _Strabo_ and _Solinus_.

Very many omitting the nominal derivation, do rest in the gross and

literal conception thereof, apprehending a real redness and constant

colour of parts. Of which opinion are also they which hold the Sea

receiveth a red and minious tincture from springs, wells, and currents

that fall into it; and of the same belief are probably many Christians,

who conceiving the passage of the _Israelites_ through this Sea to have

been the type of Baptism, according to that of the Apostle [SN: 1 _Cor._

10. 2.], All were baptized unto _Moses_ in the cloud, and in the Sea:

for the better resemblance of the blood of Christ, they willingly

received it in the apprehension of redness, and a colour agreeable unto

its mystery: according unto that of _Austin_, _Significat mare illud

rubrum Baptismum Christi; unde nobis Baptismus Christi nisi sanguine

Christi consecratus_? [SN: Aug. in Johannem.]

But divers Moderns not considering these conceptions, and appealing unto

the Testimony of sense, have at last determined the point: concluding a

redness herein, but not in the sense received. Sir _Walter Raleigh_ from

his own and _Portugal_ observations, doth place the redness of the Sea

in the reflection from red Islands, and the redness of the earth at the

bottom: wherein Coral grows very plentifully, and from whence in great

abundance it is transported into _Europe_. The observations of

_Alberquerque_ and _Stephanus de Gama_ (as from _Johannes de Bairros_,

_Fernandius de Cordova_ relateth) derive this redness from the colour of

the sand and argillous earth at the bottom; for being a shallow Sea,

while it rowleth to and fro, there appeareth a redness upon the water,

which is most discernable in sunny and windy weather. But that this is

no more than a seeming redness, he confirmeth by an experiment; for in

the reddest part taking up a vessel of water, it differed not from the

complexion of other Seas. Nor is this colour discoverable in every place

of that Sea, for as he also observeth, in some places it is very green,

in others white and yellow, according to the colour of the earth or sand

at the bottom. And so may _Philostratus_ be made out, when he saith,

this Sea is blew; or _Bellonius_ denying this redness, because he beheld

not that colour about Sues; or when _Corsalius_ at the mouth thereof

could not discover the same.

Now although we have enquired the ground of redness in this Sea, yet are

we not fully satisfied: for what is forgot by many, and known by few,

there is another Red Sea whose name we pretend not to make out from

these principles; that is, the _Persian_ Gulph or Bay, which divideth

the _Arabian_ and _Persian_ shore, as _Pliny_ hath described it. _Mare

rubrum in duos dividitur sinus, is qui ab Oriente est, Persicus

appellatur_; or as _Solinus_ expresseth it, _Qui ab Oriente est Persicus

appellatur, ex adverso unde Arabia est, Arabicus_: whereto assenteth

_Suidas_, _Ortelius_, and many more. And therefore there is no absurdity

in _Strabo_ when he delivereth that _Tigris_ and _Euphrates_ do fall

into the Red Sea, and _Fernandius de Cordova_ justly defendeth his

Countryman _Seneca_ in that expression;

_Et qui renatum prorsus excipiens diem

Tepidum Rubenti Tigrin immiscet freto._

Nor hath only the _Persian_ Sea received the same name with the

_Arabian_, but what is strange, and much confounds the distinction, the

name thereof is also derived from King _Erythrus_; who was conceived to

be buried in an Island of this Sea, as _Dionysius Afer_, _Curtius_ and

_Suidas_ do deliver. Which were of no less probability than the other,

if (as with the same authors _Strabo_ affirmeth) he was buried neer

_Caramania_ bordering upon the _Persian_ Gulph. And if his Tomb was seen

by _Nearchus_, it was not so likely to be in the _Arabian_ Gulph; for we

read that from the River _Indus_ he came unto _Alexander_ at _Babylon_,

some few days before his death. Now _Babylon_ was seated upon the River

_Euphrates_, which runs into the _Persian_ Gulph. And therefore however

the Latin expresseth it in _Strabo_, that _Nearchus_ suffered much in

the _Arabian Sinus_, yet is the original, that is, the Gulf of

_Persia_.

That therefore the Red Sea or _Arabian_ Gulph received its name from

personal derivation, though probable, is but uncertain; that both the

Seas of one name should have one common denominator, less probable; that

there is a gross and material redness in either, not to be affirmed:

that there is an emphatical or appearing redness in one, not well to be

denied. And this is sufficient to make good the Allegory of the

Christians: and in this distinction may we justifie the name of the

Black Sea, given unto _Pontus Euxinus:_ the name of _Xanthus_, or the

yellow River of _Phrygia_: and the name of _Mar Vermeio_, or the Red

Sea in _America_.

CHAPTER X

Of the Blackness of _Negroes_.

It is evident not only in the general frame of Nature, that things most

manifest unto sense, have proved obscure unto the understanding: But

even in proper and appropriate Objects, wherein we affirm the sense

cannot err, the faculties of reason most often fail us. Thus of colours

in general, under whose gloss and vernish all things are seen, few or

none have yet beheld the true nature; or positively set down their

incontroulable causes. Which while some ascribe unto the mixture of the

Elements, others to the graduality of Opacity and Light; they have left

our endeavours to grope them out by twi-light, and by darkness almost to

discover that whose existence is evidenced by Light. [SN: _The

Principles of Colour according to the_ Chymists.] The _Chymists_ have

laudably reduced their causes unto Sal, Sulphur, and Mercury; and had

they made it out so well in this, as in the objects of smell and taste,

their endeavours had been more acceptable: For whereas they refer Sapor

unto Salt, and Odor unto Sulphur, they vary much concerning colour; some

reducing it unto Mercury, some to Sulphur; others unto Salt. Wherein

indeed the last conceit doth not oppress the former; and though Sulphur

seem to carry the master-stroak, yet Salt may have a strong

co-operation. For beside the fixed and terrestrious Salt, there is in

natural bodies a _Sal niter_ referring unto Sulphur; there is also a

volatile or Amnoniack Salt, retaining unto Mercury; by which Salts the

colours of bodies are sensibly qualified, and receive degrees of lustre

or obscurity, superficiality or profundity, fixation or volatility.

Their general or first Natures being thus obscure, there will be greater

difficulties in their particular discoveries; for being farther removed

from their simplicities, they fall into more complexed considerations;

and so require a subtiler act of reason to distinguish and call forth

their natures. Thus although a man understood the general nature of

colours, yet were it no easie Problem to resolve, Why Grass is green?

Why Garlick, Molyes, and Porrets have white roots, deep green leaves,

and black seeds? Why several docks and sorts of Rhubarb with yellow

roots, send forth purple flowers? Why also from Lactary or milky plants

which have a white and lacteous juyce dispersed through every part,

there arise flowers blew and yellow? Moreover, beside the specifical and

first digressions ordained from the Creation, which might be urged to

salve the variety in every species; Why shall the marvail of _Peru_

produce its flowers of different colours, and that not once, or

constantly, but every day, and variously? Why Tulips of one colour

produce some of another, and running through almost all, should still

escape a blew? And lastly, Why some men, yea and they a mighty and

considerable part of mankind, should first acquire and still retain the

gloss and tincture of blackness? Which whoever strictly enquires, shall

find no less of darkness in the cause, than in the effect it self; there

arising unto examination no such satisfactory and unquarrelable reasons,

as may confirm the causes generally received; which are but two in

number. The heat and scorch of the Sun; or the curse of God on _Cham_

and his Posterity.

The first was generally received by the Ancients, who in obscurities had

no higher recourse than unto Nature, as may appear by a Discourse

concerning this point in _Strabo_. By _Aristotle_ it seems to be implied

in those Problems which enquire why the Sun makes men black, and not the

fire? Why it whitens wax, yet blacks the skin? By the word _Æthiops_ it

self, applied to the memorablest Nations of _Negroes_, that is of a burnt

and torrid countenance. The fancy of the Fable infers also the Antiquity

of the opinion; which deriveth this complexion from the deviation of the

Sun, and the conflagration of all things under _Phaeton_. But this opinion

though generally embraced, was I perceive rejected by _Aristobulus_ a very

ancient Geographer; as is discovered by _Strabo_. It hath been doubted by

several modern Writers, particularly by _Ortelius_; but amply and

satisfactorily discussed as we know by no man. We shall therfore endeavour

a full delivery hereof, declaring the grounds of doubt, and reasons of

denial, which rightly understood, may, if not overthrow, yet shrewdly

shake the security of this Assertion.

And first, Many which countenance the opinion in this reason, do tacitly

and upon consequence overthrow it in another. For whilst they make the

River _Senaga_ to divide and bound the _Moors_, so that on the South

side they are black, on the other only tawny; they imply a secret

causality herein from the air, place or river; and seem not to derive it

from the Sun. The effects of whose activity are not precipitously

abrupted, but gradually proceed to their cessations.

Secondly, If we affirm that this effect proceeded, or as we will not be

backward to concede, it may be advanced and fomented from the fervour of

the Sun; yet do we not hereby discover a principle sufficient to decide

the question concerning other animals; nor doth he that affirmeth the

heat makes man black, afford a reason why other animals in the same

habitations maintain a constant and agreeable hue unto those in other

parts, as Lions, Elephants, Camels, Swans, Tigers, Estriges. Which

though in _Æthiopia_, in the disadvantage of two Summers, and

perpendicular Rayes of the Sun, do yet make good the complexion of their

species, and hold a colourable correspondence unto those in milder

regions. Now did this complexion proceed from heat in man, the same

would be communicated unto other animals which equally participate the

Influence of the common Agent. For thus it is in the effects of cold, in

Regions far removed from the Sun; for therein men are not only of fair

complexions, gray-eyed, and of light hair; but many creatures exposed to

the air, deflect in extremity from their natural colours; from brown,

russet and black, receiving the complexion of Winter, and turning

perfect white. Thus _Olaus Magnus_ relates, that after the Autumnal

Æquinox, Foxes begin to grow white; thus _Michovius_ reporteth, and we

want not ocular confirmation, that Hares and Partridges turn white in

the Winter; and thus a white Crow, a proverbial rarity with us, is none

unto them; but that inseparable accident of _Porphyrie_ is separated in

many hundreds.

Thirdly, If the fervour of the Sun, or intemperate heat of clime did

solely occasion this complexion, surely a migration or change thereof

might cause a sensible, if not a total mutation; which notwithstanding

experience will not admit. For _Negroes_ transplanted, although into

cold and phlegmatick habitations, continue their hue both in themselves,

and also their generations; except they mix with different complexions;

whereby notwithstanding there only succeeds a remission of their

tinctures; there remaining unto many descents a strong shadow of their

Originals; and if they preserve their copulations entire, they still

maintain their complexions. As is very remarkable in the dominions of

the Grand Signior, and most observable in the _Moors_ in _Brasilia_,

which transplanted about an hundred years past, continue the tinctures

of their fathers unto this day. And so likewise fair or white people

translated in hotter Countries receive not impressions amounting to this

complexion, as hath been observed in many _Europeans_ who have lived in

the land of _Negroes_: and as _Edvardus Lopes_ testifieth of the

_Spanish_ plantations, that they retained their native complexions unto

his days.

Fourthly, If the fervour of the Sun were the sole cause hereof in

_Ethiopia_ or any land of _Negroes_, it were also reasonable that

inhabitants of the same latitude, subjected unto the same vicinity of

the Sun, the same diurnal arch, and direction of its rayes, should also

partake of the same hue and complexion, which notwithstanding they do

not. For the Inhabitants of the same latitude in _Asia_ are of a

different complexion, as are the Inhabitants of _Cambogia_ and _Java_,

insomuch that some conceive the _Negro_ is properly a native of

_Africa_, and that those places in _Asia_ inhabited now by _Moors_, are

but the intrusions of _Negroes_ arriving first from _Africa_, as we

generally conceive of _Madagascar_, and the adjoyning Islands, who

retain the same complexion unto this day. But this defect is more

remarkable in _America_; which although subjected unto both the

Tropicks, yet are not the Inhabitants black between, or near, or under

either; neither to the Southward in _Brasilia_, _Chili_, or _Peru_; nor

yet to the Northward in _Hispaniola_, _Castilia_, _del Oro_, or

_Nicaragua_. And although in many parts thereof there be at present

swarms of _Negroes_ serving under the _Spaniard_, yet were they all

transported from _Africa_, since the discovery of _Columbus_; and are

not indigenous or proper natives of _America_.

Fifthly, We cannot conclude this complexion in Nations from the vicinity

or habitude they hold unto the Sun; for even in _Africa_ they be

_Negroes_ under the Southern Tropick, but are not all of this hue either

under or near the Northern. So the people of _Gualata_, _Agades_,

_Garamantes_, and of _Goaga_, all within the Northern Tropicks are not

_Negroes_; but on the other side about _Capo Negro_, _Cefala_, and

_Madagascar_, they are of a jetty black.

Now if to salve this Anomaly we say the heat of the Sun is more powerful

in the Southern Tropick, because in the sign of Capricorn fals out the

Perigeum or lowest place of the Sun in his Excentrick, whereby he

becomes nearer unto them than unto the other in Cancer, we shall not

absolve the doubt. And if any insist upon such niceties, and will

presume a different effect of the Sun, from such a difference of place

or vicinity, we shall ballance the same with the concernment of its

motion, and time of revolution, and say he is more powerful in the

Northern Hemisphere, and in the Apogeum; for therein his motion is

slower, and so his heat respectively unto those habitations, as of

duration, so also of more effect. For, though he absolve his revolution

in 365 days, odd hours and minutes, yet by reason of Excentricity, his

motion is unequal, and his course far longer in the Northern Semicircle,

than in the Southern; for the latter he passeth in a 178 days, but the

other takes him a 187, that is, eleven days more. So is his presence

more continued unto the Northern Inhabitants; and the longer day in

Cancer is longer unto us, than that in Capricorn unto the Southern

Habitator. Beside, hereby we only infer an inequality of heat in

different Tropicks, but not an equality of effects in other parts

subjected to the same. For, in the same degree, and as near the earth he

makes his revolution unto the _American_, whose Inhabitants

notwithstanding partake not of the same effect. And if herein we seek a

relief from the Dog-star, we shall introduce an effect proper unto a

few, from a cause common unto many; for upon the same grounds that Star

should have as forcible a power upon _America_ and _Asia_; and although

it be not vertical unto any part of _Asia_, but only passeth by _Beach_,

_in terra incognita_; yet is it so unto _America_, and vertically

passeth over the habitations of _Peru_ and _Brasilia_.

Sixthly, And which is very considerable, there are _Negroes_ in _Africa_

beyond the Southern Tropick, and some so far removed from it, as

Geographically the clime is not intemperate, that is, near the Cape of

good Hope, in 36 of the Southern Latitude. Whereas in the same elevation

Northward, the Inhabitants of _America_ are fair; and they of _Europe_

in _Candy_, _Sicily_, and some parts of _Spain_, deserve not properly so

low a name as _Tawny_.

Lastly, Whereas the _Africans_ are conceived to be more peculiarly

scorched and torrified from the Sun, by addition of driness from the

soil, from want and defect of water, it will not excuse the doubt. For

the parts which the _Negroes_ possess, are not so void of Rivers and

moisture, as is presumed; for on the other side the mountains of the

Moon, in that great tract called _Zanzibar_, there are the mighty Rivers

of _Suama_ and _Spirito Santo_; on this side, the great River _Zaire_,

the mighty _Nile_ and _Niger_; which do not only moisten and

contemperate the air by their exhalations, but refresh and humectate the

earth by their annual Inundations. Beside, in that part of _Africa_,

which with all disadvantage is most dry, that is, in situation between

the Tropicks, defect of Rivers and inundations, as also abundance of

Sands, the people are not esteemed _Negroes_; and that is _Lybia_, which

with the _Greeks_ carries the name of all _Africa_. A region so desert,

dry and sandy, that Travellers (as _Leo_ reports) are fain to carry

water on their Camels; whereof they find not a drop sometime in six or

seven days. Yet is this Country accounted by Geographers no part of

_terra Nigritarum_, and _Ptolomy_ placeth herein the _Leuco Æthiops_, or

pale and Tawny _Moors_.

Now the ground of this opinion might be the visible quality of Blackness

observably produced by heat, fire and smoak; but especially with the

Ancients the violent esteem they held of the heat of the Sun, in the hot

or torrid Zone; conceiving that part unhabitable, and therefore that

people in the vicinities or frontiers thereof, could not escape without

this change of their complexions. But how far they were mistaken in this

apprehension, modern Geography hath discovered: And as we have declared,

there are many within this Zone whose complexions descend not so low as

unto blackness. And if we should strictly insist hereon, the possibility

might fall into question; that is, whether the heat of the Sun, whose

fervour may swart a living part, and even black a dead or dissolving

flesh, can yet in animals, whose parts are successive and in continual

flux, produce this deep and perfect gloss of Blackness.

[Sidenote: _The particular causes of the Negroes blackness probably._]

Thus having evinced, at least made dubious, the Sun is not the Author of

this Blackness, how, and when this tincture first began is yet a Riddle,

and positively to determine, it surpasseth my presumption. Seeing

therefore we cannot discover what did effect it, it may afford some

piece of satisfaction to know what might procure it. It may be therefore

considered, whether the inward use of certain waters or fountains of

peculiar operations, might not at first produce the effect in question.

For, of the like we have records in _Aristotle, Strabo_ and _Pliny_, who

hath made a collection hereof, as of two fountains in _Bœotia_, the

one making Sheep white, the other black; of the water of _Siberis_ which

made Oxen black, and the like effect it had also upon men, dying not

only the skin, but making their hairs black and curled. This was the

conceit of _Aristobulus_, who received so little satisfaction from the

other, or that it might be caused by heat, or any kind of fire, that he

conceived it as reasonable to impute the effect unto water.

Secondly, It may be perpended whether it might not fall out the same way

that _Jacobs_ cattle became speckled, spotted and ring-straked, that is,

by the Power and Efficacy of Imagination; which produceth effects in the

conception correspondent unto the phancy of the Agents in generation;

and sometimes assimilates the Idea of the Generator into a reality in

the thing ingendred. For, hereof there pass for current many indisputed

examples; so in _Hippocrates_ we read of one, that from an intent view

of a Picture conceived a _Negro_; And in the History of _Heliodore_ of a

Moorish Queen, who upon aspection of the Picture of _Andromeda_,

conceived and brought forth a fair one. [SN: Vide plura apud _Tho.

Fienum_, de viribus imaginationis.] And thus perhaps might some say was

the beginning of this complexion: induced first by Imagination, which

having once impregnated the seed, found afterward concurrent

co-operation, which were continued by Climes, whose constitution

advantaged the first impression. [SN: _Why Beares_ etc. _white in some

places._] Thus _Plotinus_ conceiveth white Peacocks first came in. Thus

many opinion that from aspection of the Snow, which lieth long in

Northern Regions, and high mountains. Hawks, Kites, Beares, and other

creatures become white; and by this way _Austin_ conceiveth the devil

provided, they never wanted a white spotted Ox in _Egypt_; for such an

one they worshipped, and called _Apis_.

Thirdly, It is not indisputable whether it might not proceed from such a

cause and the like foundation of Tincture, as doth the black Jaundise,

which meeting with congenerous causes might settle durable inclinations,

and advance their generations unto that hue, which were naturally before

but a degree or two below it. And this transmission we shall the easier

admit in colour, if we remember the like hath been effected in organical

parts and figures; the Symmetry whereof being casually or purposely

perverted; their morbosities have vigorously descended to their

posterities, and that in durable deformities. This was the beginning of

_Macrocephali_, or people with long heads, whereof _Hippocrates_ [SN: De

Aere, Aquis, et Locis.] hath clearly delivered himself: _Cum primum

editus est Infans, caput ejus tenellum manibus effingunt, et in

longitudine adolescere cogunt; hoc institutum primum hujusmodi, naturæ

dedit vitium, successu vero temporis in naturam abiit, ut proinde

instituto nihil amplius opus esset; semen enim genitale ex omnibus

corporis partibus provenit, ex sanis quidem sanum, ex morbosis

morbosum. Si igitur ex calvis calvi, ex cæciis cæcii, et ex distortis,

ut plurimum, distorti gignuntur, eademque in cæteris formis valet ratio,

quid prohibet cur non ex macrocephalis macrocephali gignantur?_ Thus as

_Aristotle_ observeth, the Deers of _Arginusa_ had their ears divided;

occasioned at first by slitting the ears of Deers. Thus have the

_Chineses_ little feet, most _Negroes_ great Lips and flat Noses; And

thus many _Spaniards_, and _Mediterranean_ Inhabitants, which are of the

Race of _Barbary Moors_ (although after frequent commixture) have not

worn out the _Camoys_ Nose [SN: Flat Nose.] unto this day.

Artificial _Negroes_, or _Gypsies_ acquire their complexion by anointing

their bodies with Bacon and fat substances, and so exposing them to the

Sun. In _Guiny Moors_ and others, it hath been observed, that they

frequently moisten their skins with fat and oyly materials, to temper

the irksom driness thereof from the parching rayes of the Sun. Whether

this practise at first had not some efficacy toward this complexion, may

also be considered.

[Sidenote: _How sundry kinds of Animals come to be found in Islands._]

Lastly, If we still be urged to particularities, and such as declare

how, and when the seed of _Adam_ did first receive this tincture; we may

say that men became black in the same manner that some Foxes, Squirrels,

Lions, first turned of this complexion, whereof there are a constant

sort in divers Countries; that some Chaughs came to have red Legs and

Bils, that Crows became pyed: All which mutations however they began,

depend on durable foundations; and such as may continue for ever. And if

as yet we must farther define the cause and manner of this mutation, we

must confess, in matters of Antiquity, and such as are decided by

History, if their Originals and first beginnings escape a due relation,

they fall into great obscurities, and such as future Ages seldom reduce

unto a resolution. Thus if you deduct the administration of Angels, and

that they dispersed the creatures into all parts after the flood, as

they had congregated them into _Noahs_ Ark before; it will be no easie

question to resolve, how several sorts of animals were first dispersed

into Islands, and almost how any into _America_: How the venereal

Contagion began in that part of the earth, since history is silent, is

not easily resolved by Philosophy. For whereas it is imputed unto

Anthropophagy, or the eating of mans flesh; that cause hath been common

unto many other Countries, and there have been Canibals or men eaters in

the three other parts of the world, if we credit the relations of

_Ptolomy_, _Strabo_ and _Pliny_. And thus if the favourable pen of

_Moses_ had not revealed the confusion of tongues, and positively

declared their division at _Babel_, our disputes concerning their

beginning had been without end; and I fear we must have left the hopes

of that decision unto _Elias_. [SN: Elias cum venerit solvet dubium.]

And if any will yet insist, and urge the question farther still upon me,

I shall be enforced unto divers of the like nature, wherein perhaps I

shall receive no greater satisfaction. I shall demand how the Camels of

_Bactria_ came to have two bunches on their backs, whereas the Camels of

_Arabia_ in all relations have but one? How Oxen in some Countries began

and continue gibbous or bunch-back'd? what way those many different

shapes, colours, hairs, and natures of Dogs came in? how they of some

Countries became depilous, and without any hair at all, whereas some

sorts in excess abound therewith? How the Indian Hare came to have a

long tail, whereas that part in others attains no higher than a scut?

How the hogs of _Illyria_ which _Aristotle_ speaks of, became solipedes

or whole-hoofed, whereas in other parts they are bisulcous, and

described cloven-hoofed by God himself? All which with many others must

needs seem strange unto those that hold there were but two of the

unclean sort in the ark; and are forced to reduce these varieties to

unknown originals.

[Sidenote: _How the complexion of the Negroes may be propagated._]

However therefore this complexion was first acquired, it is evidently

maintained by generation, and by the tincture of the skin as a

spermatical part traduced from father unto Son; so that they which are

strangers contract it not, and the Natives which transmigrate, omit it

not without commixture, and that after divers generations. And this

affection (if the story were true) might wonderfully be confirmed, by

what _Maginus_ and others relate of the Emperour of _Æthiopia_, or

_Prester John_, who derived from _Solomon_ is not yet descended into the

hue of his Country, but remains a _Mulatto_, that is, of a Mongril

complexion unto this day. Now although we conceive this blackness to be

seminal, yet are we not of _Herodotus_ conceit, that their seed is

black. An opinion long ago rejected by _Aristotle_, and since by sense

and enquiry. His assertion against the Historian was probable, that all

seed was white; that is without great controversie in viviparous

Animals, and such as have Testicles, or preparing vessels wherein it

receives a manifest dealbation. And not only in them, but (for ought I

know) in Fishes not abating the seed of Plants; whereof at least in most

though the skin and covering be black, yet is the seed and fructifying

part not so; as may be observed in the seeds of _Onyons_, _Pyonie_ and

_Basil_. Most controvertible it seems in the spawn of Frogs, and

Lobsters, whereof notwithstanding at the very first the spawn is white,

contracting by degrees a blackness, answerable in the one unto the

colour of the shell, in the other unto the Porwigle or Tadpole; that is

that Animall which first proceedeth from it. And thus may it also be in

the generation and sperm of Negroes; that being first and in its

naturals white, but upon separation of parts, accidents before invisible

become apparent; there arising a shadow or dark efflorescence in the

outside; whereby not only their legitimate and timely births, but their

abortions are also dusky, before they have felt the scorch and fervor of

the Sun.

CHAPTER XI

Of the same.

A Second opinion there is, that this complexion was first a curse of God

derived unto them from _Cham_, upon whom it was inflicted for

discovering the nakedness of _Noah_. Which notwithstanding is sooner

affirmed then proved, and carrieth with it sundry improbabilities. For

first, if we derive the curse on _Cham_, or in general upon his

posterity, we shall denigrate a greater part of the earth then was ever

so conceived; and not only paint the Æthiopians and reputed sons of

_Cush_, but the people also of _Egypt_, _Arabia_, _Assyria_ and

_Chaldea_; for by this race were these Countries also peopled. And if

concordantly unto _Berosus_, the fragment of _Cato de Originibus_, some

things of _Halicarnasseus_, _Macrobius_, and out of them of _Leandro_

and _Annius_, we shall conceive of the travels of _Camese_ or _Cham_; we

may introduce a generation of _Negroes_ as high as _Italy_; which part

was never culpable of deformity, but hath produced the magnified

examples of beauty.

Secondly, The curse mentioned in Scripture was not denounced upon

_Cham_, but _Canaan_ his youngest son, and the reasons thereof are

divers. The first, from the Jewish Tradition, whereby it is conceived

that _Canaan_ made the discovery of the nakedness of _Noah_, and

notified it unto _Cham_. Secondly, to have cursed _Cham_ had been to

curse all his posterity, whereof but one was guilty of the fact. And

lastly, he spared _Cham_, because he had blessed him before. [SN: Cap.

9.] Now if we confine this curse unto _Canaan_, and think the same

fulfilled in his posterity; then do we induce this complexion on the

Sidonians, then was the promised land a tract of Negroes; For from

_Canaan_ were descended the _Canaanites_, _Jebusites_, _Amorites_,

_Gergazites_ and _Hivites_, which were possessed of that land.

Thirdly, Although we should place the original of this curse upon one of

the sons of _Cham_, yet were it not known from which of them to derive

it. For the particularity of their descents is imperfectly set down by

accountants, nor is it distinctly determinable from whom thereof the

_Æthiopians_ are proceeded. For whereas these of _Africa_ are generally

esteemed to be the Issue of _Chus_, the elder son of _Cham_, it is not

so easily made out. For the land of _Chus_, which the Septuagint

translates _Æthiopia_, makes no part of _Africa_, nor is it the

habitation of Blackmores, but the Country of _Arabia_, especially the

Happy and Stony possessions and Colonies of all the sons of _Chus_,

excepting _Nimrod_ and _Havilah_: possessed and planted wholly by the

children of _Chus_, that is, by _Sabtah_ and _Raamah_, _Sabtacha_, and

the sons of _Raamah_, _Dedan_, and _Sheba_, according unto whose names

the Nations of those parts have received their denominations, as may be

collected from _Pliny_ and _Ptolemy_; and as we are informed by credible

Authors, they hold a fair Analogy in their names, even unto our days. So

the wife of _Moses_ translated in Scripture an _Æthiopian_, and so

confirmed by the fabulous relation of _Josephus_, was none of the

daughters of _Africa_, nor any Negroe of _Æthiopia_, but the daughter of

_Jethro_, Prince and Priest of _Madian_, which was a part of _Arabia_

the stony, bordering upon the Red Sea. So the Queen of _Sheba_ came not

unto _Solomon_ out of _Æthiopia_, but from _Arabia_, and that part

thereof which bore the name of the first planter, the son of _Chus_. So

whether the Eunuch which _Philip_ the Deacon baptised, were servant unto

_Candace_ Queen of the _African Æthiopia_ (although _Damianus a Goes,

Codignus_, and the Æthiopick relations averr) is yet by many, and with

strong suspitions doubted. So that Army of a million, which _Zerah_ King

of _Æthiopia_ is said to bring against _Asa_, was drawn out of _Arabia_,

and the plantations of _Chus_; not out of _Æthiopia_, and the remote

habitations of the Moors. For it is said that _Asa_ pursuing his

victory, took from him the City _Gerar_; now _Gerar_ was no City in or

near _Æthiopia_, but a place between _Cadesh_ and _Zur_, where _Abraham_

formerly sojourned. Since thereof these _African Æthiopians_ are not

convinced by the common acception to be the sons of _Chus_, whether they

be not the posterity of _Phut_ or _Mizraim_, or both, it is not

assuredly determined. For _Mizraim_, he possessed _Egypt_, and the East

parts of _Africa_. From _Lubym_ his son came the _Lybians_, and perhaps

from them the _Æthiopians_. _Phut_ possessed _Mauritania_, and the

Western parts of _Africa_, and from these perhaps descended the Moors

of the West, of _Mandinga_, _Meleguette_ and _Guinie_. But from

_Canaan_, upon whom the curse was pronounced, none of these had their

originall; for he was restrained unto _Canaan_ and _Syria_; although in

after Ages many Colonies dispersed, and some thereof upon the coasts of

_Africa_, and prepossessions of his elder brothers.

Fourthly, To take away all doubt or any probable divarication, the curse

is plainly specified in the Text, nor need we dispute it, like the mark

of _Cain_; _Servus servorum erit fratribus suis_, Cursed be _Canaan_, a

servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren; which was after

fulfilled in the conquest of _Canaan_, subdued by the _Israelites_, the

posterity of _Sem_. Which Prophecy _Abraham_ well understanding, took an

oath of his servant not to take a wife for his son _Isaac_ out of the

daughters of the _Canaanites_; and the like was performed by _Isaac_ in

the behalf of his Son _Jacob_. As for _Cham_ and his other sons, this

curse attained them not; for _Nimrod_ the son of _Chus_ set up his

kingdom in _Babylon_, and erected the first great Empire; _Mizraim_ and

his posterity grew mighty Monarchs in _Egypt_; and the Empire of the

_Æthiopians_ hath been as large as either. Nor did the curse descend in

generall upon the posterity of _Canaan_: for the _Sidonians_, _Arkites_,

_Hamathites_, _Sinites_, _Arvadites_, and _Zemerites_ seem exempted. But

why there being eleven Sons, five only were condemned and six escaped

the malediction, is a secret beyond discovery.

Lastly, Whereas men affirm this colour was a Curse, I cannot make out

the propriety of that name, it neither seeming so to them, nor

reasonably unto us; for they take so much content therein, that they

esteem deformity by other colours, describing the Devil, and terrible

objects, white. And if we seriously consult the definitions of beauty,

and exactly perpend what wise men determine thereof, we shall not

apprehend a curse, or any deformity therein. For first, some place the

essence thereof in the proportion of parts, conceiving it to consist in

a comely commensurability of the whole unto the parts, and the parts

between themselves: which is the determination of the best and learned

Writers. Now hereby the Moors are not excluded from beauty: there being

in this description no consideration of colours, but an apt connexion

and frame of parts and the whole. Others there be, and those most in

number, which place it not only in proportion of parts, but also in

grace of colour. But to make Colour essential unto Beauty, there will

arise no slender difficulty: For _Aristotle_ in two definitions of

pulchritude, and _Galen_ in one, have made no mention of colour. Neither

will it agree unto the Beauty of Animals: wherein notwithstanding there

is an approved pulchritude. Thus horses are handsome under any colour,

and the symmetry of parts obscures the consideration of complexions.

Thus in concolour animals and such as are confined unto one colour, we

measure not their Beauty thereby: For if a Crow or Black-bird grow

white, we generally account it more pretty; and in almost a monstrosity

descend not to opinion of deformity. By this way likewise the Moors

escape the curse of deformity: there concurring no stationary colour,

and sometimes not any unto Beauty.

The Platonick contemplators reject both these descriptions founded upon

parts and colours, or either: as _M. Leo_ the Jew hath excellently

discoursed in his Genealogy of Love, defining beauty a formal grace,

which delights and moves them to love which comprehend it. This grace

say they, discoverable outwardly, is the resplendor and Ray of some

interiour and invisible Beauty, and proceedeth from the forms of

compositions amiable. Whose faculties if they can aptly contrive their

matter, they beget in the subject an agreeable and pleasing beauty; if

over-ruled thereby, they evidence not their perfections, but run into

deformity. For seeing that out of the same materials, _Thersites_ and

_Paris_, Beauty and monstrosity may be contrived; the forms and

operative faculties introduce and determine their perfections. Which in

natural bodies receive exactness in every kind, according to the first

_Idea_ of the Creator, and in contrived bodies the phancy of the

Artificer. And by this consideration of Beauty, the Moors also are not

excluded, but hold a common share therein with all mankind.

Lastly, In whatsoever its _Theory_ consisteth, or if in the general, we

allow the common conceit of symmetry and of colour, yet to descend unto

singularities, or determine in what symmetry or colour it consisted,

were a slippery designation. For Beauty is determined by opinion, and

seems to have no essence that holds one notion with all; that seeming

beauteous unto one, which hath no favour with another; and that unto

every one, according as custome hath made it natural, or sympathy and

conformity of minds shall make it seem agreeable. Thus flat noses seem

comely unto the Moor, an Aquiline or hawked one unto the _Persian_, a

large and prominent nose unto the Romane; but none of all these are

acceptable in our opinion. Thus some think it most ornamental to wear

their Bracelets on their Wrests, others say it is better to have them

about their Ancles; some think it most comely to wear their Rings and

Jewels in the Ear, others will have them about their Privities; a third

will not think they are compleat except they hang them in their lips,

cheeks, or noses. Thus _Homer_ to set off _Minerva_, calleth her

γλαυκῶπις, that is, gray or light-blew eyed: now this unto us seems far

less amiable then the black. Thus we that are of contrary complexions

accuse the blackness of the Moors as ugly: But the Spouse in the

_Canticles_ excuseth this conceit, in that description of hers, I am

black, but comely. And howsoever _Cerberus_, and the furies of hell be

described by the Poets under this complexion, yet in the beauty of our

Saviour blackness is commended, when it is said, his locks are bushie

and black as a Raven. So that to inferr this as a curse, or to reason it

as a deformity, is no way reasonable; the two foundations of beauty,

Symmetry and complexion receiving such various apprehensions, that no

deviation will be expounded so high as a curse or undeniable deformity,

without a manifest and confessed degree of monstrosity.

Lastly, It is a very injurious method unto Philosophy, and a perpetual

promotion of ignorance, in points of obscurity; nor open unto easie

considerations, to fall upon a present refuge unto Miracles; or recurr

unto immediate contrivance, from the insearchable hands of God. Thus in

the conceit of the evil odor of the Jews, Christians without a further

research into the verity of the thing, or inquiry into the cause, draw

up a judgement upon them from the passion of their Saviour. Thus in the

wondrous effects of the clime of _Ireland_, and the freedom from all

venemous creatures, the credulity of common conceit imputes this

immunity unto the benediction of S. _Patrick_, as _Beda_ and _Gyraldus_

have left recorded. Thus the Ass having a peculiar mark of a cross made

by a black list down his back, and another athwart, or at right angles

down his shoulders; common opinion ascribes this figure unto a peculiar

signation; since that beast had the honour to bear our Saviour on his

back. Certainly this is a course more desperate then Antipathies,

Sympathies, or occult qualities; wherein by a final and satisfactive

discernment of faith, we lay the last and particular effects upon the

first and general cause of all things; whereas in the other, we do but

palliate our determinations, untill our advanced endeavours do totally

reject, or partially salve their evasions.

CHAPTER XII

A Digression concerning Blackness.

There being therefore two opinions repugnant unto each other, it may not

be presumptive or skeptical to doubt of both. And because we remain

imperfect in the general Theory of colours, we shall deliver at present

a short discovery of blackness; wherein although perhaps we afford no

greater satisfaction then others, yet shall we Emperically and sensibly

discourse hereof; deducing the causes of Blackness from such Originals

in nature, as we do generally observe things are denigrated by Art. And

herein I hope our progression will not be thought unreasonable, for Art

being the imitation of Nature, or Nature at the second hand, it is but a

sensible expression of effects dependant on the same, though more

removed causes: and therefore the works of the one may serve to discover

the other. And though colours of bodies may arise according to the

receptions, refraction, or modification of Light; yet are there certain

materialls which may dispose them unto such qualities.

And first, Things become black by a sooty and fuliginous matter

proceeding from the Sulphur of bodies torrified; not taking _fuligo_

strictly, but in opposition unto ἀτμὸς, that is any kind of vaporous or

madefying excretion; and comprehending ἀναθυμίασις, that is as

_Aristotle_ defines it, a separation of moist and dry parts made by the

action of heat or fire, and colouring bodies objected. Hereof in his

Meteors, from the qualities of the subject he raiseth three kinds; the

exhalations from ligneous and lean bodies, as bones, hair, and the like

he calleth κάπνος, _fumus_, from fat bodies, and such as have not their

fatness conspicuous or separated he termeth λίγνυς, _fuligo_, as wax,

rosin, pitch, or turpentine; that from unctuous bodies, and such whose

oyliness is evident, he named κνίση or _nidor_. Now everyone of these do

black bodies objected unto them, and are to be conceived in the sooty

and fuliginous matter expressed.

I say, proceeding from the sulphur of bodies torrified, that is the

oylie fat, and unctuous parts wherein consist the principles of

flammability. Not pure and refined sulphur, as in the Spirits of wine

often rectified; but containing terrestrious parts, and carrying with it

the volatile salt of the body, and such as is distinguishable by taste

in soot; nor vulgar and usual sulphur, for that leaves none or very

little blackness, except a metalline body receive the exhalation.

I say, torrified, sindged, or suffering some impression from fire; thus

are bodies casually or artificially denigrated, which in their naturals

are of another complexion; thus are Charcoals made black by an

infection of their own suffitus, so is it true what is affirmed of

combustible bodies. _Adusta nigra_, _perusta alba_; black at first from

the fuliginous tincture, which being exhaled they become white, as is

perceptible in ashes. And so doth fire cleanse and purifie bodies,

because it consumes the sulphureous parts, which before did make them

foul: and therefore refines those bodies which will never be mundified

by water. Thus Camphire of a white substance, by its _fuligo_ affordeth

a deep black. So is pitch black, although it proceed from the same tree

with Rosin, the one distilling forth, the other forced by fire. So of

the suffitus of a torch, do Painters make a velvet black: so is

lamp-black made: so of burnt Harts-horn a sable; so is Bacon denigrated

in chimnies: so in Feavers and hot distempers from choler adust is

caused a blackness in our tongues, teeth and excretions: so are

ustilago, brant corn and trees black by blasting; so parts cauterized,

gangrenated, siderated and mortified, become black, the radical

moisture, or vital sulphur suffering an extinction, and smothered in the

part effected. So not only actual but potential fire: not burning fire,

but also corroding water will induce a blackness. [SN: _Why the smoak of

pure Sulphur blacks not._] So are Chimnies and Furnaces generally black,

except they receive a clear and manifest sulphur: for the smoak of

sulphur will not black a paper, and is commonly used by women to whiten

Tiffinies, which it performeth by an acide vitriolous, and penetrating

spirit ascending from it, by reason whereof it is not apt to kindle any

thing nor will it easily light a Candle, untill that spirit be spent,

and the flame approacheth the match. This is that acide and piercing

spirit which with such activity and compunction invadeth the brains and

nostrils of those that receive it. And thus when _Bellonius_ affirmeth

that Charcoals made out of the wood of Oxycedar are white, Dr. _Jordan_

in his judicious Discourse of mineral waters yeeldeth the reason,

because their vapors are rather sulphureous then of any other

combustible substance. So we see that _Tinby_ coals will not black

linnen being hanged in the smoak thereof, but rather whiten it, by

reason of the drying and penetrating quality of sulphur, which will make

Red roses white. And therefore to conceive a general blackness in Hell,

and yet therein the pure and refined flames of sulphur, is no

Philosophical conception, nor will it well consist with the real effects

of its nature.

These are the advenient and artificial wayes of denigration, answerably

whereto may be the natural progress. These are the wayes whereby

culinary and common fires do operate, and correspondent hereunto may be

the effects of fire elemental. So may Bitumen, Coals, Jet, Black-lead,

and divers mineral earths become black; being either fuliginous

concretions in the earth, or suffering a scorch from denigrating

Principles in their formation. So men and other animals receive

different tinctures from constitution and complexional efflorescences,

and descend still lower, as they partake of the fuliginous and

denigrating humour. And so may the _Æthiopians_ or _Negroes_ become

coal-black, from fuliginous efflorescences and complexional tinctures

arising from such probabilities, as we have declared before.

The second way whereby bodies become black, is an Atramentous condition

or mixture, that is a vitriolate or copperose quality conjoyning with a

terrestrious and astringent humidity; for so is _Atramentum

Scriptorium_, or writing Ink commonly made by copperose cast upon a

decoction or infusion of galls. I say a vitriolous or copperous quality;

for vitriol is the active or chief ingredient in Ink, and no other salt

that I know will strike the colour with galls; neither Alom, Sal-gem,

Nitre, nor Armoniack. [SN: _What the common Copperose is._] Now

artificial copperose, and such as we commonly use, is a rough and

acrimonious kind of salt drawn out of ferreous and eruginous earths,

partaking chiefly of Iron and Copper; the blew of Copper, the green most

of Iron: Nor is it unusual to dissolve fragments of Iron in the liquor

thereof, for advantage in the concretion. I say, a terrestrious or

astringent humidity; for without this there will ensue no tincture; for

Copperose in a decoction of Lettuce or Mallows affords no black, which

with an astringent mixture it will do, though it be made up with oyl, as

in printing and painting Ink. But whereas in this composition we use

only Nut-gals, that is an excrescence from the Oak, therein we follow

and beat upon the old receit; for any plant of austere and stiptick

parts will suffice, as I have experimented in _Bistorte_, _Myrobolans_,

_Myrtus Brabantica_, _Balaustium_ and Red Roses. And indeed, most

decoctions of astringent plants, of what colour soever, do leave in the

Liquor a deep and Muscadine red: which by addition of vitriol descends

into a black: and so _Dioscorides_ in his receit of Ink, leaves out

gall, and with copperose makes use of soot.

Now if we enquire in what part of vitriol this Atramental and

denigrating condition lodgeth, it will seem especially to lie in the

more fixed salt thereof; for the phlegm or aqueous evaporation will not

denigrate; nor yet spirits of vitriol, which carry with them volatile

and nimbler Salt: For if upon a decoction of Copperose and gall, be

poured the spirits or oyl of vitriol, the liquor will relinquish his

blackness; the gall and parts of the copperose precipitate unto the

bottom, and the Ink grow clear again; which it will not so easily do in

common Ink, because that gum is dissolved therein which hindereth the

separation. But Colcothar or vitriol burnt, though unto a redness

containing the fixed salt, will make good Ink; and so will the Lixivium,

or Lye made thereof with warm water; but the Terra or Insipid earth

remaining, affords no black at all, but serves in many things for a

gross and useful red. And though Spirits of vitriol, projected upon a

decoction of gals, will not raise a black, yet if these spirits be any

way fixed, or return into vitriol again, the same will act their former

parts and denigrate as before.

And if we yet make a more exact enquiry, by what this salt of vitriol

more peculiarly gives this colour, we shall find it to be from a

metalline condition, and especially an Iron Property or ferreous

participation. For blew Copperose which deeply partakes of the copper

will do it but weakly, Verdigrise which is made of Copper will not do it

at all, but the filings of Iron infused in vinegar, will with a

decoction of gals make good Ink, without any Copperose at all; and so

will infusion of Load-stone; which is of affinity with Iron. And though

more conspicuously in iron, yet such a Calcanthous or Atramentous

quality, we will not wholly reject in other mettals; whereby we often

observe black tinctures in their solutions. Thus a Lemmon, Quince or

sharp Apple cut with a knife becomes immediately black: And from the

like cause, Artichokes; so sublimate beat up with whites of eggs, if

touched with a knife, becomes incontinently black. So _Aqua fortis_,

whose ingredient is vitriol, will make white bodies black. So leather

dressed with the bark of Oak, is easily made black by a bare solution of

Copperose. So divers Mineral waters and such as participate of Iron,

upon an infusion of gals, become of a dark colour, and entering upon

black. So steel infused, makes not only the liquor duskie, but in bodies

wherein it concurs with proportionable tinctures makes also the

excretions black. And so also from this vitriolous quality _Mercurius

dulcis_, and vitriol vomitive occasion black ejections. But whether this

denigrating quality in Copperose proceedeth from an Iron participation,

or rather in Iron from a vitriolous communication; or whether black

tinctures from metallical bodies be not from vitriolous parts contained

in their sulphur, since common sulphur containeth also much vitriol, may

admit consideration. However in this way of tincture, it seemeth plain,

that Iron and Vitriol are the powerful Denigrators.

Such a condition there is naturally in some living creatures. Thus that

black humour by _Aristotle_ named θόλos, and commonly

translated _Atramentum_, may be occasioned in the Cuttle-fish. Such a

condition there is naturally in some Plants, as Black-berries,

Walnut-rinds, Black-cherries; whereby they extinguish inflammations,

corroborate the stomack, and are esteemed specifical in the Epilepsie.

Such an atramentous condition there is to be found sometime in the

blood, when that which some call _Acetum_, others _Vitriolum_, concurs

with parts prepared for this tincture. And so from these conditions the

Moors might possibly become Negroes, receiving Atramentous impressions

in some of those wayes, whose possibility is by us declared.

[Sidenote: _How a vitriolous quality may be in living bodies._]

Nor is it strange that we affirm there are vitriolous parts, qualities,

and even at some distance Vitriol it self in living bodies; for there is

a sower stiptick salt diffused through the Earth, which passing a

concoction in plants, becometh milder and more agreeable unto the sense,

and this is that vegetable vitriol, whereby divers plants contain a

gratefull sharpness, as Lemmons, Pomegranats, Cherries, or an austere

and inconcocted roughness, as Sloes, Medlars and Quinces. And that not

only vitriol is a cause of blackness, but that the salts of natural

bodies do carry a powerfull stroke in the tincture and vernish of all

things, we shall not deny, if we contradict not experience, and the

visible art of Dyars; who advance and graduate their colours with Salts.

For the decoctions of simples which bear the visible colours of bodies

decocted, are dead and evanid, without the commixtion of Alum, Argol,

and the like. And this is also apparent in Chymical preparations. So

Cinaber becomes red by the acide exhalation of sulphur, which otherwise

presents a pure and niveous white. So spirits of Salt upon a blew paper

make an orient red. So Tartar or vitriol upon an infusion of violets

affords a delightfull crimson. [SN: _Whence the colours of Plants, etc.

may arise._] Thus it is wonderful what variety of colours the spirits of

Saltpeter, and especially, if they be kept in a glass while they pierce

the sides thereof; I say, what Orient greens they will project: from the

like spirits in the earth the plants thereof perhaps acquire their

verdure. And from such salary irradiations may those wondrous varieties

arise, which are observable in Animals, as Mallards heads, and Peacocks

feathers, receiving intention or alteration according as they are

presented unto the light. Thus Saltpeter, Ammoniack and Mineral spirits

emit delectable and various colours; and common _Aqua fortis_ will in

some green and narrow mouthed glasses, about the verges thereof, send

forth a deep and Gentianella blew.

Thus have we at last drawn our conjectures unto a period; wherein if our

contemplations afford no satisfaction unto others, I hope our attempts

will bring no condemnation on our selves (for besides that adventures in

knowledge are laudable, and the assayes of weaker heads afford

oftentimes improveable hints unto better) although in this long journey

we miss the intended end; yet are there many things of truth disclosed

by the way; and the collaterall verity may unto reasonable speculations

some what requite the capital indiscovery.

CHAPTER XIII

Of Gypsies.

Great wonder it is not we are to seek in the original of _Æthiopians_

and natural Negroes, being also at a loss concerning the Original of

Gypsies and counterfeit Moors, observable in many parts of _Europe_,

_Asia_, and _Africa_.

[Sidenote: _Opinions concerning the original of Gypsies._]

Common opinion deriveth them from _Egypt_, and from thence they derive

themselves, according to their own account hereof, as _Munster_

discovered in the letters and pass which they obtained from _Sigismund_

the Emperour; that they first came out of lesser _Egypt_, that having

defected from the Christian rule, and relapsed unto Pagan rites, some of

every family were enjoyned this penance to wander about the world; or as

_Aventinus_ delivereth, they pretend for this vagabond course, a

judgement of God upon their fore-fathers, who refused to entertain the

Virgin _Mary_ and Jesus, when she fled into their Country.

Which account notwithstanding is of little probability: for the generall

stream of writers, who enquire into their originall, insist not upon

this; and are so little satisfied in their descent from _Egypt_, that

they deduce them from several other nations [SN: _Fernand. de Cordua

didascal. multipl._]: _Polydore Virgil_ accounting them originally

_Syrians_, _Philippus Bergomas_ fetcheth them from _Chaldæa_, _Æneas

Sylvius_ from some part of _Tartary_, _Bellonius_ no further then

_Walachia_ and _Bulgaria_, nor _Aventinus_ then the confines of

_Hungaria_.

That they are no _Egyptians_, _Bellonius_ [SN: Observat. l. 2.] maketh

evident: who met great droves of Gypsies in _Egypt_, about Gran Cairo,

Matærea, and the villages on the banks of _Nilus_, who notwithstanding

were accounted strangers unto that Nation, and wanderers from foreign

parts, even as they are esteemed with us.

[Sidenote: _Gypsies first known in Germany._]

That they came not out of _Egypt_ is also probable, because their first

appearance was in _Germany_, since the year 1400, nor were they observed

before in other parts of _Europe_, as is deducible from _Munster_,

_Genebrard_, _Crantsius_ and _Ortilius_.

But that they first set out not far from _Germany_, is also probable

from their language, which was the Sclavonian tongue; and when they

wandred afterward into _France_, they were commonly called _Bohemians_,

which name is still retained for Gypsies. And therefore when _Crantsius_

delivereth, they first appeared about the Baltick Sea, when _Bellonius_

deriveth them from _Bulgaria_ and _Walachia_, and others from about

_Hungaria_, they speak not repugnantly hereto: for the language of those

Nations was Sclavonian, at least some dialect thereof.

[Sidenote: _What use the Grand Signior maketh of Gypsies._]

But of what nation soever they were at first, they are now almost of

all; associating unto them some of every country where they wander: when

they will be lost, or whether at all again, is not without some doubt:

for unsetled nations have out-lasted others of fixed habitations: and

though Gypsies have been banished by most Christian Princes, yet have

they found some countenance from the great Turk, who suffereth them to

live and maintain publick Stews near the Imperial City in _Pera_ [SN:

Bellon. observat. l. 2.], of whom he often maketh a politick advantage,

imploying them as spies into other nations, under which title they were

banished by _Charles_ the fift.

CHAPTER XIV

Of some others.

We commonly accuse the phancies of elder times in the improper figures

of heaven assigned unto Constellations, which do not seem to answer

them, either in Greek or Barbarick Spheres: yet equall incongruities

have been commonly committed by Geographers and Historians, in the

figurall resemblances of several regions on earth; While by _Livy_ and

_Julius, Rusticus_ the Island of _Britain_ is made to resemble a long

dish or two-edged ax; _Italy_ by _Numatianus_ to be like an Oak-leaf:

and _Spain_ an Ox-hide; while the phancy of _Strabo_ makes the habitated

earth like a cloak, and _Dionysius Afer_ will have it like a sling: with

many others observable in good writers [SN: Tacit. de vita Jul. Agric.],

yet not made out from the letter or signification; acquitting Astronomy

in their figures of the Zodiack: wherein they are not justified unto

strict resemblances, but rather made out from the effects of Sun or Moon

in these several portions of heaven, or from peculiar influences of

those constellations, which some way make good their names. [SN:

Junctin. in Sph. l. de Sacro bosco cap. 2.]

Which notwithstanding being now authentick by prescription, may be

retained in their naked acceptions, and names translated from substances

known on earth. And therefore the learned _Hevelius_ in his accurate

Selenography, or description of the Moon, hath well translated the known

appellations of Regions, Seas and Mountains, unto the parts of that

Luminary: and rather then use invented names or humane denominations,

with witty congruity hath placed _Mount Sinai_, _Taurus_, _Mæotis

Palus_, the Mediterranean Sea, _Mauritania_, _Sicily_ and _Asia_ Minor

in the Moon.

More hardly can we find the Hebrew letters in the heavens, made out of

the greater and lesser Stars which put together do make up words,

wherein Cabalisticall Speculators conceive they read the events of

future things [SN: _The Cabala of the Stars._]; and how from the Stars

in the head of _Medusa_, to make out the word _Charab_; and thereby

desolation presignified unto _Greece_ or _Javan_, numerally

characterized in that word, requireth no rigid reader. [SN: Greffarel

_out of R._ Chomer.]

It is not easie to reconcile the different accounts of longitude, while

in modern tables the hundred and eighty degree is more then thirty

degrees beyond that part, where _Ptolomy_ placeth an 180. Nor will the

wider and more Western term of Longitude, from whence the Moderns begin

their commensuration, sufficiently salve the difference. [SN: Athan.

Kircher. in proœmio.] The ancients began the measure of Longitude

from the fortunate Islands or Canaries, the Moderns from the Azores or

Islands of S. _Michael_; but since the Azores are but fifteen degrees

more West, why the Moderns should reckon 180, where _Ptolomy_ accounteth

above 220, or though they take in 15 degrees at the West, why they

should reckon 30 at the East, beyond the same measure, is yet to be

determined; nor would it be much advantaged, if we should conceive that

the compute of _Ptolomy_ were not so agreeable unto the Canaries, as the

Hesperides or Islands of _Cabo Verde_. [SN: Robertus Hues de globis.]

[Sidenote: _When the Moon will be seen on the first day of the change._]

[Sidenote: _Why the Sun is seen after it is set, or naturally under the

Horizon._]

Whether the compute of moneths from the first appearance of the Moon,

which divers nations have followed, be not a more perturbed way, then

that which accounts from the conjunction, may seem of reasonable doubt

[SN: Hevel. Selenog. cap. 9.]; not only from the uncertainty of its

appearance in foul and cloudy weather, but unequal time in any; that is

sooner or later, according as the Moon shall be in the signs of long

descention, as _Pisces_, _Aries_, _Taurus_, in the Perigeum or swiftest

motion, and in the Northern Latitude: whereby sometimes it may be seen

the very day of the change, as will observably happen 1654, in the

moneths of April and May? or whether also the compute of the day be

exactly made, from the visible arising or setting of the Sun, because

the Sun is sometimes naturally set, and under the Horizon, when visibly

it is above it; from the causes of refraction, and such as make us

behold a piece of silver in a basin, when water is put upon it, which we

could not discover before, as under the verge thereof.

Whether the globe of the earth be but a point, in respect of the Stars

and Firmament, or how if the rayes thereof do fall upon a point, they

are received in such variety of Angles, appearing greater or lesser from

differences of refraction?

[Sidenote: _To what the motion of the Heavens serveth_, Met. Lib.]

Whether if the motion of the Heavens should cease a while, all things

would instantly perish? and whether this assertion doth not make the

frame of sublunary things to hold too loose a dependency upon the first

and conserving cause? at least impute too much unto the motion of the

heavens, whose eminent activities are by heat, light and influence, the

motion it self being barren, or chiefly serving for the due application

of celestial virtues unto sublunary bodies as _Cabeus_ hath learnedly

observed?

Whether Comets or blazing Stars be generally of such terrible effects,

as elder times have conceived them; for since it is found that many,

from whence these predictions are drawn, have been above the Moon; why

they may not be qualified from their positions, and aspects which they

hold with stars of favourable natures; or why since they may be

conceived to arise from the effluviums of other Stars, they may not

retain the benignity of their Originals; or since the natures of the

fixed Stars are astrologically differenced by the Planets, and are

esteemed Martial or Jovial, according to the colours whereby they answer

these Planets; why although the red Comets do carry the portensions of

Mars, the brightly-white should not be of the Influence of Jupiter or

Venus, answerably unto _Cor Scorpii_ and Arcturus, is not absurd to

doubt.

* * * * *

Printed by T. and A. CONSTABLE, Printers to His Majesty

at the Edinburgh University Press

TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES:

Contemporary spellings are variable (e.g., than/then, there/their,

current/currant) and are retained. See p. 90: "were ever commended

for there note".

The modern 'itself' and 'myself', etc. were printed as separate

words (e.g., "our selves" on p. 132.) This is retained.

The following errors have been corrected, or noted:

p. 25 (_ut scribit Aristoteles[)]_ ) | added )

|

p. 57 Why some lamps include[d] in those | added 'd'

bodies |

|

p. 70 the teeth of [Narhwales] | sic

|

p. 148 the information of reason or [f/s]ence | isolated instance

| of 's' as 'f'

| -- changed.

|

p. 220 [by/but] this only roasted | corrected

|

p. 256 Based on Juvenal's Satires, line 305, |

where we see: "Dolia >nudi< non ardent |

Cynici;" rather than >magni<. | sic

|

p. 272 The marginal note "_Dion._ Ep. 7. ... | replaced '3'

in vit. [3/S] Dionys." was misplaced. | with 'S'

The numeral '3' is also a misprint for |

'S'. |

|

p. 290 in the [] 730 of the _Julian_ period | sic

|

p. 376 lo[n]gitudine | 'n' added