[12a.] Propertius I.i.1-2.
[13.] Bayle Dict. Art. Buchan. D.
[14.] Ep. xxxiii. centur. 3.
[15.] Ep. xxvi. centur. 3.
[16.] Lett. Chois. lib. ii. lett. 5.
[CHAP. XVI.]
OF NATIONS THAT USED TO GET DRUNK.
The plot now begins to thicken upon us, and we are come to give an account of such nations with whom the custom of getting drunk was heretofore very much in vogue; and of those with whom this same custom reigns at this very day.
When we consult ancient histories upon this point, we learn from Plato[1], that the Scythians, Thracians, Celtæ and Iberians, were the greatest drinkers that ever were. Ælian[2] says the same in relation to the Thracians and Illyrians. It is also reported of the Parthians[3], that the more they drink the more thirsty they grow.
Athenæus[4] also assures us, that the Thracians were great drinkers; and he says the same thing of the Milesians, Illyrians, Lydians, Persians, Carthaginians, Gauls, and Spaniards.
The Tapyrians were so much given to wine, that they past their whole lives in drinking, and even bathed their bodies in wine[5].