[232]. Holstein Ambassadors.—Herbert.—Atl. Asia.
L. BOYTIAPUA, is a Serpent so called by the Brazilians for its long Snout, though I don’t find it exceeds others in smelling, by the extension of its Nose; it is of a long slender Body, and feeds upon Frogs, amphibious Animals and Insects.
This Serpent is in high Esteem among the Natives of Brazil, who practise the Art of Conjuration by it; and if any of them have a barren Wife, and are desirous of Children, they lash this Serpent over her Hips, pretending that such Exercise will make her fruitful: And if this Device should take effect, must not we conclude the Offspring to be a Generation of Vipers?
LI. The Gaytiepua is a large Snake, smells rank like a Fox, and, according to a learned Author, the Smell is intolerable[[233]], as is that of the Serpent Boyana, which is very long and slender, and of black Colour; of which one of the Latin Poets takes notice[[234]].
[233]. Fætor illius nullatenus—possit tolerari. Raii Synopsis.
Quod vulpis fuga, vipere cabile
Mallem quam quod oles, olere, Bassa.
Martial.
If the loathsome Smell of these Creatures offend the Nose, it serves as a friendly Alarm of Danger, to those who have the use of a Nose, that they may avoid a more terrible Stroke.