CHAP. 25. (12.)—COSTUS.
A root and a leaf, however, are the productions which are held in the very highest estimation in India. The root is that of the costus;[493] it has a burning taste in the mouth, and a most exquisite odour; in other respects, the branches are good for nothing. In the island of Patale,[494] situate at the very mouth of the river Indus, there are two kinds of costus found, the black and the white; the last is considered the best. The price of it is five denarii per pound.