And if such be the gasping Strength of the Portugals , to terrify the Potentest Enemies to Christianity in these Parts , what was their flourishing Estate ? (FRYER-E3-P1,1,193.2) Whence it may easily be supposed before now all had bowed to the Cross , which yet bend under Heathenism or Mahometism , had they not been prevented by unhappy Pretenders , that I fear too much preferred Merchandize and private Pieques , before the welfare of Religion : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.3) For it is morally probable , that had not the Dutch and we interrupted them , all might have been Christian in these parts of the World . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.4) Having in a Week's time compleated my Business , returning the same way , we steered by the South side of the Bay , purposely to touch at Elephanto , so called from a monstrous Elephant cut out of the main Rock , bearing a Young one on its Back ; not far from it the Effigies of an Horse stuck up to the Belly in the Earth in the Valley ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.5) from thence we clambred up the highest Mountain on the Island , on whose Summit was a miraculous Piece hewed out of solid Stone : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.6) It is supported with Forty two Corinthian Pillars , being a Square , open on all sides but towards the East ; where stands a Statue with three Heads , crowned with strange Hieroglyphicks : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.7) At the North side in an high Portuco stands an Altar , guarded by Giants , and immured by a Square Wall ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.8) all along , the Walls are loaded with huge Giants , some with eight hands , making their vanquished Knights stoop for mercy . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.9) Before this is a Tank full of water , and beyond that another Place with Images . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,194.10) This seems to be of later date than that of Canorein , though defaced by the Portugals , who have this Island also ; but no Defence upon it , nor any thing else of Note ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.11) it may be Ten Miles round , inhabited by the Povo , or Poor : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.12) From hence we sailed to the Putachoes , a Garden of Melons Putacho being a Melon were there not wild Rats that hinder their Growth , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.13) and so to Bombaim . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.14) The Weather now was grown excessive hot , the Earth beginning to gape for Thirst , the Sun being in its Zenith with us ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.15) the South Winds are set in strong , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.16) and the Toddy-Trees ferment their Wine over the Vessels , the Prodromi of the ensuing Rains ; which make their first shew at the first Full Moon in May , and continue a Fortnight , in which space it is unhealthy ; till after a Fortnight's fair Weather they set in for altogether . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.17) This Season makes the Syddy retreat hither with his Fleet , who from a Lord of Duccan is promoted to be the Mogul's Admiral ; or truer , driven to distress by Seva Gi , undertakes this Employment , in confidence to recover his own Dominion on the Sea-Coast , whilst the Mogul's General at Land is to stop his Proceedings on that side : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.18) But Seva Gi possessed of his Country , and bidding for his strong Castle at Dan de Rajapour Bay , which he has been to defend this Summer , derides his Attempts , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.19) and is preparing to be install'd Mau Raja , or Arch Raja , at his Court at Rairee ; for which an Embassy to keep all right must be dispatch'd . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,195.20) In the mean while Nature affords us a pleasant Spectacle for this Season , as well as Matter for Admiration ; whereby I know not why we should deny Reason wholly to Animals ; unless it be , Man having so much , they seem comparatively to have none : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.22) For here is a Bird having its Name from the Tree it chuses for its Sanctuary , the Toddy-Tree that is not only exquisitely curious in the artificial Composure of its Nest with Hay , but furnished with Devices and Stratagems to secure its self and young ones from its deadly Enemy the Squirrel ; as likewise from the Injury of the Weather ; which being unable to oppose , it eludes with this Artifice , contriving the Nest like a Steeple-hive , with winding Meanders ; before which hangs a Penthouse for the Rain to pass , tying it by so slender a Thread to the Bough of the Tree , that the Squirrel dare not venture his Body , though his Mouth water at the Eggs and Prey within ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.23) yet it is strong enough to bear the hanging habitation of the Ingenious Contriver , free from all the Assaults of its Antagonist , and all the Accidents of Gusts and Storms : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.24) Hundreds of these Pendulous Nests may be seen on these Trees . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.25) Here is another Tree called Brabb , bodied like a Cocoe , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.26) but the Leaves grow round like a Peacock's Tail set upright , of the same substance with the Cocoe , only varying in figure ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.27) the Fruit of this is less than the Cocoe , and filled with a Gelly ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.28) the Wine from this is preferred new , before the other ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.29) there is a Tuft at top , cut off and boil'd eats like Colliflowers ; on which Tree these Birds build also . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.30) And now the Rains are set in , all Hostilities and Commerce cease , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,196.31) and every one provides for this time , as the laborious Ant for the Winter , here being no stirring out to Sea , or travelling in the Country ; the best Pastime now being good Fellowship . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.32) Thus lies this place afloat , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.33) and the Rains and Thunder are violent enough to convince the incredulous of a possibility of a General Deluge . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.34) This holds with little intermission till St. Francis 's Moon , the first Full Moon in August ; when our Europe Ships , if they save their Passage about the Cape , venture to make in here , by the directions of the yellow Bellies of the formerly mentioned Water-Snakes , who are a warning to them of adventuring too near the Shore , till this open Weather appear . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.35) After this Full Moon , the Banyans , assisted by their Brachmins , go in Precession to the Sea-shore , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.36) and offer Cocoe Nuts to Neptune , that he would restore there their Mare Pacificum ; when they make Preparations to go to Sea , and about their Business of Trade . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.37) By this opportunity our Ambassadors crossed an Arm of the Sea , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.38) and returning from Seva Gi ; delivered the President this following Account ; which I the rather insert , because the manner of dealing with these Princes and Great Men may be the better understood by this formal Address . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,197.39) CHAP. IV . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,198.42) A NARRATIVE OF AN EMBASSY TO SEVA GI , AND JOURNEY TO RAIREE , THE COURT OF THE RAJAH . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,198.43) The Ambassador having received Instructions , and got all things ready for his Journey , embark'd on a Bombaim Shebar together with two English Factors , who were appointed by the Honourable the President to accompany him ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,198.45) and about Nine a Clock at Night arrived at Choul , a Portugal City on the Main , into which he could not enter , the Gates being shut up , and Watch set ; so that they passed this Night in the Suburbs , in a small Church called St. Sebastians ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,198.46) and the next day about Three in the Afternoon receiving Advice that Seva Gi was returned to Rairee from Chiblone , departed thence to Upper Choul , a Town belonging to the Rajah , about two Miles distant from the Portugal City ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,198.47) and was in former times a great Mart of all sorts of Duccan commodities ; but now totally ruined by the late Wars betwixt the Mogul and Seva Gi , whose Arms have plundered and laid it waste . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.48) The Subidar of this Town being a Person of Quality , who commands the Countries opposite to Bombaim , as Magatan , Penn , and Tull , he thought good to give him a Visit , and to present him with a couple of Pamerins ; and the rather , because he understood by the Linguist Naran Sinaij , he had some Aversion to our Nation , and might hinder our Proceedings at Court ; from which he was willing to take him off by all fair means : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.49) He received the Visit kindly , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.50) and promised all Courtesy that lay in his Power to perform ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.51) and after some immaterial Discourse they returned to their Tents . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.52) The Day following they took Boat , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.53) and sailed up Choul River , to a Town called Esthemy , six Leagues distance from Choul , where they staid till next day ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.54) and set forth about six in the Morn from Esthemy , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,199.55) and about Sun-set pitched their Tent in a Plain , six Miles short of Nishampore , where they stayed about an hour to refresh their Coolies , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.56) and then set forward for Nishampore , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.57) and at Nine passing by Nishampore , arrived next Morning at Gongouly , a little Village situated on the Bank of a pleasant Rivulet ; from whence in a fair Day may be discerned the Castle of Rairee : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.58) The day after they proceeded on their Journy to Rairee , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.59) and about Nine of the Clock in the Evening came to Puncharra , a Town at the Foot of the Hill , where they understood that Seva Gi was departed thence to Purtaabgur , to visit the Shrine of Bowany , a Pagod of great esteem with him , and celebrated some Ceremonies there in order to his Coronation ; having carried with him several Presents , and among the rest a Lumbrico of pure Gold , weighing about one Maund and a quarter , which is Forty two Pounds , which he hath dedicated to the said Pagod . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.60) In the interim , understanding they could not be admitted into the Castle till Seva Gi's return , they pitched their Tent in the Plain ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.61) and in order to their more speedy dispatch , $made {TEXT:make} their Business known to their Procurator Narun Gi Pundit whose reception was very kind (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.62) and delivered him his Honour's Letters ; shewing him the several Presents they brought for the Rajah , and Ministers of State ; of which he highly approved , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,200.63) and promised them to help them to the Rajah's presence , as soon as conveniently he could after his return from Pilgrimage to Purtaabgur : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.64) And bad them rest content , that his Endeavours should be totally employed in the Honourable Company's Interest , and procuring them a speedy dispatch : For which having rendered him Thanks , he presented him with the Articles which they brought for the Rajah to sign , translated into Moratty Language ; which he said he would peruse , and then give his judgment of them . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.65) He then took occasion to discourse with him concerning the Conclusion of a Peace betwixt the Rajah and the Syddy of Danda Rajapore ; urging many Arguments to create in him a belief it would be for the Rajah's advantage , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.66) but he would not be persuaded it was for his Master's Interest to raise a Siege which had cost him so much Blood and Treasure ; especially now he hath such hopes of gaining the Place : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.67) And therefore told them , it would be in vain to move it to the Rajah , who was resolved to take in the Castle , let it cost him what it will : And to that effect was daily sending down more Ordnance , Ammunition , Men and Money . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.68) Our Ambassador replied , The President had no other Design in making this motion , than that of a good Neighbour ; having observed the Miseries each Party endured , and the general obstruction of Trade , occasioned by the War ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.69) but since he desired him to desist mentioning it to the Rajah , he should not trouble him therewith ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,201.70) but what was more consistent with our own and his Interest ; which was the encouraging Trade and Merchandise in his Country , and opening the ways to Baligaot , that Merchants might with safety bring down their Goods to Port ; which would be much to the Rajah's Profit , and encrease of his Treasury : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.71) And this he recommended to his Prudence to persuade the Rajah thereto ; who being a Soldier from his Infancy , $it $'s {TEXT:its} possible minded not such concerns . To which he answered , That he doubted not but it would be effected in a short time ; for that the King of Visiapour , who is Owner of those Countries from whence most sorts of Wares come being weary of Wars with his Master , had sent several Embassies to conclude a peace with him ; which he thought would be made up in two or three Months , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.72) and then the Ways would be free , and the Merchants have Egress and Regress as formerly . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.73) That the Rajah , after his Coronation , would act more like a Prince , by taking care of his Subjects , and endeavouring the advancement of Commerce in his Dominions ; which he could not attend before , being in perpetual War with the Great Mogul and King of Visiapour . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.74) This is the Substance of his Discourse with Narun Gi Pundit who seemed to him to be a Man of Prudence and Esteem with his Master : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.75) So after a little sitting he took his leave of him , having first presented him with a Diamond Ring , for which he expressed a liking ; and his Eldest Son a Couple of Pamerins , which are fine Mantles . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.76) They continuing under their Tent , found it very hot and incommodious ; wherefore they were glad when they heard the Rajah was returned from Purtaabgur , when the Ambassador solicited Narun Gi Pundit to procure his leave to pass up the Hill into Rairee Castle : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,202.77) The next day they receiv'd order to ascend the Hill into the Castle , the Rajah having appointed an House for them ; which they did ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.78) leaving Puncharra about Three in the Afternoon , they arrived at the top of that strong Mountain , forsaking the humble Clouds about Sun-set . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.79) It is fortified by Nature more than Art , being of very difficult access , there being but one Avenue to it , which is guarded by two narrow Gates , and fortified by a strong Wall exceeding high , and Bastions thereto : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.80) All the other part of the Mountain is a direct Precipice ; so that $it $'s {TEXT:it's} impregnable , except the Treachery of some in it betray it . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.81) On the Mountain are many strong Buildings , as the Rajah's Court , and Houses of other Ministers , to the number of about . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.82) It is in length about two Miles and an half , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.83) but no pleasant Trees , or any sort of Grain grows thereon . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.84) Their House was about a Mile from the Rajah's Palace , into which they retired with no little content . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.85) Four days after their ascent , by the sollicitation of Narun Gi Pundit , the Rajah gave them Audience , though busily employed by many other great Affairs , relating to his Coronation and Marriage . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,203.86) Our Ambassador presented him , and his Son Samba Gi Rajah , with the Particulars appointed for them ; which they took well satisfied with them ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.87) and the Rajah assured them we might trade securely in all his Countries without the least apprehension of ill from him , for that the Peace was concluded . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.88) Our Ambassadour replied , that was our Intent ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.89) and to that intent the President had sent him to this Court to procure the same Articles and Privileges we enjoyed in Indostan and Persia , where we traded . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.90) He answered , it is well , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.91) and referred our Business to Moro Pundit , his Peshua , or Chancellour , to examine our Articles , and give an account what they were . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.92) He and his Son withdrew into their private Apartments , to consult with the Brachmanes about the Ceremonies preparatory to his Enstalment ; which chiefly consisted in Abstinence and Purifying ; till which be over , he will hear no farther of Business . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.93) They likewise departed to their Lodgings . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.94) A day or two after our Ambassador went to Narun Gi Pundit , (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.95) and took his Advice concerning the presenting of the rest ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.96) who told him he might go in Person to Moro Pundit , but to the rest he should send by Naran Sinaij what was intended for them : Declaring likewise if he would have his Work specially effected , and without any impediment , that it was necessary to be at some more charge to present Officers with Pamerins , who were not in their list of Presents ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,204.97) to which he assented , considering the time of the Year was so far spent , and that if he should be forced to stay the whole Rains out at Rairee , the Honourable Company's Charges would be greater than the Additional Presents : (FRYER-E3-P1,1,205.98) He answered that two Pamerins were not enough for Moro Pundit , that we must present him with four ; and Peta Gi Pundit Vocanovice , or Publick Intelligencer , with the {COM:sic} Diamond Ring , valued at 125 Rupees . The Dehir , or Persian Escrivan , with Four Pamerins . Sam Gi Nan Gi , Keeper of the Seal , with Four . Ab Gi Pundit , Four . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,205.99) And then he should not doubt of a speedy Conclusion ; (FRYER-E3-P1,1,205.100) otherwise they would raise Objections on purpose to impede the Negotiation . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,205.101) For every Officer in Court expected something according to their Degree and Charge . (FRYER-E3-P1,1,205.102) Hence up Hill and down Hill , through broken Rocks and unsteady Stones , through kindled Fires from sulphurious Caverns , and the more raging effects of the burning Orb , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,188.104) enlightening and enlivening all the World beside ; here it kills and consumes the un-nurtur'd Plants , leaving them dry and sapless ; as if these great Heaps of Rocks were made for no other end but to counterpoize the more Fruitful Part of this Terrestrial Globe ; insomuch that it had been utterly impossible to have drawn Breath in this Place , had not the late unusual Rain something allayed the Fury of the Heats , which yet were troublesome enough by reason of the steaming Mists arising boiling hot with the Sun ; which so late in the Year are by the most Ancient of this Country esteemed so far out of course , that their Memory fails them to relate the like . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,188.105) Nor do the Publick Roads deny the Calamity of these Munsels , which are frequently strewed with Bones of labouring Beasts , expiring under their Burthens , many of which were fresh Examples of this Truth , lying reeking Carkasses in our Way from Goor Bazergum to Jehun , which is but Twelve Miles , where we were forced to stay to get more Camels , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.106) for Three had failed us in this Conflict ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.107) and afterwards with much Pain we measured six Miles more to Tangedelon , where we eased our selves at a Caravan Ser Raw , near a Stream of living Water sweetly gliding through the middle of it , and wash'd the Dust off our sweaty Bodies , in a Tank contrived to make a pleasant Bath under the Roof of the Seraw . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.108) Tangedelon expresses in its Mothers Speech , A Strait Passage , which hits exactly with the following Munsel ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.109) for we travelled long under hollowed Mountains , whose lofty Rocks hung over our Heads , threatning to stop our Career , which after Twenty Rocky Miles directed us to Cormoot , a Town of Dates , Cormoot being a Date , {COM:greek_omitted} . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.110) Thus far we came directly in a Line ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,189.111) now we wander to and again in the Meanders of the Barren Hills , with indefatigable Industry , till we descend into a large Plain , at the End whereof Sham Zangee an Abassin , had built an old Caravan , Twenty Miles from Cormoot ; where we met a Caphala of light Asses going for the Port ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.112) and here we were obliged to change more of our Camels , they being quite tired . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.113) In this Plain the Heats increased upon us so , that we could not touch the Walls (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.114) but they were like Fire , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.115) the Winds that should refresh us were ready to inflame us , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.116) nor was any thing cool but the Water , which they had kept in Earthen Vessels dipped in their Wells or Tanks , where being drowned they came up shivering cold , which was all the Comfort we received here ; wherefore at Sun-set we made for Lhor , choaked with Dust and Heat ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.117) half-way , at a new Caravan Ser Raw , we encountred three Caphalaes laden with Dry Fruit for the Port : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.118) This was founded by the Overseer of the Building of the Long-Bridge over the Lake leading to the Gulph , who raised himself thereby , and begins though covetous in other things to bestow his Mony on these Works , having laid the Foundation for another at Sham Zangee . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.119) From this Place to Lhor the Ground is more Even , and fit for Cultivation , the Husbandmen having planted their Cottages along the Valley , on each side of a gliding Brook , here and there beset with Tamerisk Trees . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.120) About Nine in the Morning we came to Lhor , near Forty Mile from Sham Zangee . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.121) The Hollanders have here a neat , but small Dwelling , whither their Commodore comes sometimes : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,190.122) In this we designed to have worn some days away , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.123) but neither the Heat nor Musquitoes would let us rest long in this City ; wherefore desiring to fly from these , we changed our Camels for Mules , that we might make better speed than these slow Animals would endure ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.124) for these intemperate Seats were too hot for us , so that the same Afternoon we mounted , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.125) and on Horseback saw the remaining part of the City leading us on our Way . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.126) The Road from Bunder to it is spacious and open , through a pleasant Campaign for near Twenty Miles , the Mountains observing a modest distance on that side , although behind it is begirt with enough for defence ; at {COM:sic} top of which is a notable Seat , fit for a Castle , being of difficult Access , from whence those that approach , may hear the Thundring Cannons roar among the Valleys , which were most taken from the Portugals in their being beaten out of the Gulph . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.127) Lhor is a City of an Ancient Date , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.128) and still retains its Name , which for that it was so guarded by Nature that it could not easily be conquered , held many Ages the Majesty of a Kingdom ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.129) but now it is governed by a Puritanical Caun for that he has visited Mahomet's Tomb under the Persian Emperor ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.130) yet still it extends its self far in its Province , reaching almost to Bunder Abassee , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.131) and has two eminent Ports tending to the Mouth of Euphrates , viz. Bunder Congo and Bunder Reek , with half the Pearl-fishing , divided between the Arab and Persian . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,191.132) He is in such Vogue at Court for his Probity , that his Neighbour Caun was ordered to submit to his Judgment , before whose Tribunal he appeared to answer the Crimes objected to him in his Government . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.133) However he is not so great a Bigot as to abstract himself wholly from the Pleasures of this World , so as to deny himself his Paradise here : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.134) For his Palaces shew not only studious Contrivances , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.135) but are Luxurious both-1 for inward Furniture and outward Beauty , with which Pleasures he oftner indulges himself than he is at Leisure for Publick Affairs . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.136) Before his Palaces a Foursquare Piatzo takes in a large Space of Ground , with Gates to every Quarter ; over which his loud Musick are placed , either to entertain Strangers , or by their Noise to give the Time of the Day at every Three or Four Hours : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.137) At the Gate entring the Palace is a constant Guard : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.138) Within are stately Apartments , with Lakes and Gardens , equal to the Roman Pride in its Age of Wantonness ; but so much the more to be extoll'd , by how much more this Soil is incompatible with the Italian Mold . {COM:verse_omitted} (FRYER-E3-P1,2,192.139) Besides all these , there is an Exchange , or Burse , full of Wares , in the Figure of a Cross , reared with polished Stone on a large Area before the Duke's House . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.141) The Water in use for the common People is chiefly Rain ; wherefore the Cisterns are more costly than in other Places ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.142) of the same Figure as at Gombroon , only some few are tubilated and built of Mud . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.143) Many Merchants possess Princely Edifices in this Town , it being a Place of some considerable Trade both Inland , and from the several Ports . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.144) The Earth is productive of Sulphur , whose Chymical Spirit is extracted here , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.145) and is preferable to any other , I never having met with more refined Brimstone ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.146) they generally distil it per Campanam . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,193.147) The Bezoar -Stone is purchased at this Mart , being said to be found in the Stomach of the Mountain-Goats hereabouts , occasioned by some Plant they delight to feed on , to which they attribute its Growth : On which Subject more may be seen in Bontius Junior's Animadversions on the Second and Sixth Paragraph of Garcius ab Orta` : Whose Words are to this Effect ; ' This Stone I find not-6 only-7 to be generated in Persia , but also in other Parts of the World ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.148) and because none as I know of before my self have given the true Etymon or Derivation of this Stone , or how it grows , hear the Business in a few Words . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.149) ' The Persians then call this Stone Pazahar , being a Compound of Pa and Zahar , the first of which is against , the other is Poyson ; as much as if you should say in Greek , Antidoton , in English , Counter-Poyson . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.150) ' It grows after this manner ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.151) there is a Place in Persia called Stebanon , as Bontius writes , the Persian Shabanat , Three Days Journey beyond Lhor , in whose Fields there springs up an Herb like Saffron and Hermodactyls , on which the Flocks of Goats or Sheep feed , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.152) and by their eating thereof these Stones concrete (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.153) and become an hard Substance ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.154) but I suspend my Vote , whether in the Stomach , Reins , or Bladder : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.155) However , that Belief may be gained for any of these , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.156) seeing them halt and complain as much as Men {COM:would_complain} under the same distress , would more than incline the most incredulous . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.157) They are not , says he , unlike the Europe Goats , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.158) only they have longer and straiter Horns : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.159) They are not of divers Colours , as he affirms , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,194.160) neither go they in Flocks or Herds together ; though I have eaten of their Flesh more than once , hunted by Greyhounds , being turned loose from the Mountains , they having much of the Nature of Venison both-2 in their Taste and Aspect . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.161) Moreover these Creatures rather Sheep than Goats as they breed greater or lesser Stones , they discover it by their Gate , of which both the crafty Armenian as well as Persian are well advised . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.162) Other Creatures as well as these are subject to this Distemper , as Cows , Sheep , and Apes ; which last is reckoned the most excellent Bezoar by more than a few . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.163) To the Directions already given , I shall add , That the true Bezoar Stones have a Straw , or something in resemblance thereof , which never fails but in the Adulterate ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.164) and if the upper Coat being shaved off , there succeed not another Round , as is visible in Onions , till you come to the Straw without doubt it is Counterfeit . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.165) But the following Method will better betray the Cheat , because they leave nothing unattempted to impose upon the Buyers : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.166) If you rub the Stone with a little Lime , and if in the chafed Part there appears a Purple Colour , it declares it true and genuine , without sophistication . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.167) Or if you cast them into a Bason of Water , after an exact Account is taken of their Weight , and they be taken out Three Hours after , and weighed again , and it answer the first Account , neither losing nor gaining by their stay in the Water , then pronounce them right : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.168) But if being rubbed by Lime they chance to crack , or a Flaw be made in the Trial , or that they alter upon their Immersion in the Water , you slander them not , if you say they are False . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.169) In this Country Assa Foetida is gathered at a Place called Descoon ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,195.170) some deliver it to be the juice of a Cane or Reed inspissated ; others , of a Tree wounded : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.171) It differs much from the stinking Stuff called Hing , it being of the Province of Carmania : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.172) This latter is that the Indians perfume themselves with , mixing it in all their Pulse , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.173) and make it up in Wafers to correct the Windiness of their Food , which they thunder up in Belchings from the Crudities created in their Stomachs ; never thinking themselves at ease without this Thaeriac : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.174) And this is that they cozen the Europeans with instead of Assa Foetida , of which it bears not only the Smell , but Colour also , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.175) only it is more liquid . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.176) It is usual on the News of our Approach to these great Cities , or Populous Towns , for the Governors or their Deputies to expect the coming of our Agent a Pharsang out of Town , bringing the Men of Note with him to attend us to our Lodgings , and bring us with Pomp through their Streets , and at the same time lay in Store for us and our Horses , ushering in huge Courses of Provisions , both ready dress'd and undress'd , as also Services of Sweetmeats dried and undried , sending in Sheep , Goat , and Pullen , Barley , Rice , and the like ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.177) and at our departure Present us with Persian Steeds for our Journy : For which we must not stir till we have paid sufficiently , by return of our Country Manufactures , as Scarlet , Watches , or something of greater Value : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.178) Tam cito` in avaritiam excurrit sua humanitas ; quommodo enim beneficiuun est quod in quaestum mittitur ? cum a` beneficio abesse debeat negotiatio , &c . Senec. lib. 3. de Benefic. (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.179) So soon their Humanity is turned to Avarice ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.180) for how can that be esteemed a Gift , which is bestowed with an intent to gain ? Since any manner of Profit , which is sordid ; makes void an entire Benefaction . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,196.181) But being rewarded for their forced Courtesy , upon our mounting they conducted us on our Way , as far as they waited to bring us in . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.183) CHAP. III . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.185) WE MEASURE THE UTMOST BOUNDS OF THE PROVINCES OF LHOR AND GEROM , TO THE CITY OF SIRAS . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.186) Being now advanced upon the Mountains , among whose Tops and Turnings we make our Progress ; fresh instances of the Convulsions which this Sulphurious Soil is subject to encounter us , as by the Cloven Hills and Rocks we may be convinced could be effected by no other means than by terrible Earthquakes from the Bowels of the Earth : (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.188) Among these droughty and uncouth Paths , having wearied our Steps for Three Pharsangs , we came to a Caravan Ser Raw , by Name Pokutal , at the foot of these Mountains , and the beginning of a spacious Plain , where we found the first alleviation from the fierce Heats of the Noon of Night , though at Noon Day we could not think our case much amended . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.189) Po is interpreted the Basis , Kutal of the Hill ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.190) this Inn was a new , strong , square , large Inn ; the first we stabled , or rather shut our Doors in a-Nights , it being Built after the Best Form , and Capacious of a great Number , both-2 in the outward Square and inner Stables ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,197.191) to this belonged Three stately Tanks with a deep Well , some an Hundred Fathoms down to the Bottom , with a Pond , either-1 to Water or Wash the Cattel in , hard by it ; the perfect proof of our being passed the Sands , which hold not digging such a depth , this being White Marle ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.192) and the whole Plain promised a more fruitful Clay . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.193) Hence to Bury metes out Twelve Miles more , where the best Caravan Ser Raw is on all the Road , it being not only well Adorned with White facing Stone , but is both Large and Convenient , as well as Stately Fabrick . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.194) Hard by this is a Peor , or Burying-place of one of their Prophets , being a goodly Monument , with an Arabick School Founded in his Honour , and Endowed with a good Pension for to maintain the Devotion of their Priests . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.195) The next Munsel we hardly Went , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.196) but Crept onward to {COM:sic} , through almost impassable and dangerous Precipices , with all the heed imaginable , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.197) for a Trip here could not have been retrieved without the loss of our Lives ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.198) but by the Divine Providence we came to Bonaru , an Eight Cornered Caravan Ser Raw , Eighteen Miles from Bury ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.199) there on an Hill are the remains of a regular Fortification , with a suppliment of Outworks on every side , without any Avenue , unless on one side ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,198.200) between this Village and Bury , the Inhabitants reckon a many Castles on the Mountains with large Tanks of Water , and Store-houses for Provisions of Corn , Cut out of the main Rocks with indefatigable Cost and Industry , which Works were they to be begun now as they say could not be Finished by the Expertest Artists in Fifty Years . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.201) They yet retain a Warlike Disposition , being still accounted the best Gunners here of any other places in Persia ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.202) at the Entrance into this place are unsizable Heads of Mountain-Rams with their Horns , set up as the Trophies of their Skill in Shooting them ; and as a farther Argument of the cruel slaughter made among their Forefathers , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.203) for more than Three Days Journy together , the Fields are every where filled with Graves . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.204) And now we began to be acquainted with the shift they make for Water in these dry Countries , where there is little Rain , and Rivulets ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.205) they Dig for Springs , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.206) and when they have found one , they follow the Water-Course which way it directs under Ground , Hollowing the Ground , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.207) and at every Thirty or Forty Yards , cast up a Mole-Hill , where they make a Pit to Ventilate and let in the Air to Purify the Water , as well as to Cleanse the Channel , (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.208) and this Course holds on many Pharsangs together for the advantage of the Vallies ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,199.209) and this I look upon to be as much the cause of the Generation of the Bezoar -Stone in the Animals aforesaid , as the reasons alleged there by Bontius for their Production ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,200.210) for by the consent of the Physicians , nothing contributes more to the Breeding of the Stone in Men , than such things as are Undigested and create Obstructions ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,200.211) nor can any thing be more Obstructing than such Water as is drawn from Wells and deep Caverns , where the Sun has little influence , as we may have occasion to manifest afterwards ; (FRYER-E3-P1,2,200.212) and therefore we may probably Conjecture , these Unconcocted Waters to be a main instrument of their production , since where these are in use , this Accident is more general than in other places . (FRYER-E3-P1,2,200.213)