[545] This observation is taken from Aristotle, Meteor. ii. 8.
[546] Phænomena of this kind have been frequently noticed, and are not difficult of explanation.
[547] “In iisdem;” “Iidem, inquit, putei inclusum terra spiritum libero meatu emittentes, terræ motus avertunt.” Alexandre in Lemaire, i. 406.
[548] “Quæ pendent.” M. Ajasson translates this passage, “qui sont comme suspendues.” Hardouin’s explanation is, “Structis fornice cameris imposita ædificia intelligit; quod genus camerarum spiramenta plerumque habet non pauca, quibus exeat ad libertatem aer.” Lemaire, i. 407.
[549] Many of these circumstances are referred to by Seneca, Nat. Quæst. vi. 30. On the superior security of brick buildings, M. Alexandre remarks, “Muri e lateribus facti difficilius quam cæteri dehiscunt, unde fit ut in urbibus muniendis id constructionum genus plerumque præferatur. Ex antiquæ Italiæ palatiis templisve nihil fere præter immensas laterum moles hodie superest.”
[550] These remarks upon the different kinds of shocks are probably taken from Aristotle, Meteor. ii. 8.
[551] This observation is also in Aristotle, ii. 8.
[552] In the year of the city 663; A.C. 90.
[553] In the year of the city 821; A.D. 68.
[554] The continuation of Aufidius Bassus’ history; our author refers to it in the first book.