Hercules was thought to have the key and power of bestowing all hidden treasure.
Note III.
In Tyber ducking thrice, by break of day,
To wash the obscenities of night away.—P. [223].
The ancients thought themselves tainted and polluted by night itself, as well as bad dreams in the night; and therefore purified themselves by washing their heads and hands every morning, which custom the Turks observe to this day.
Note IV.
Fit for Ergenna's prayer and sacrifice.—P. [223].
When any one was thunderstruck, the soothsayer (who is here called Ergenna) immediately repaired to the place, to expiate the displeasure of the gods, by sacrificing two sheep.
Note V.
Our superstitions with our life begin.—P. [223].