CHAP. 109. (105.)—OF NAPHTHA.
Naphtha is a substance of a similar nature[703] (it is so called about Babylon, and in the territory of the Astaceni, in Parthia[704]), flowing like liquid bitumen. It has a great affinity to fire, which instantly darts on it wherever it is seen[705]. It is said, that in this way it was that Medea burned Jason’s mistress; her crown having taken fire, when she approached the altar for the purpose of sacrificing[706].