[595] Columella, B. ii. c. i., gives the same advice.
[596] “Palea” seems here to mean “chaff;” though Fée understands it as meaning straw.
[597] The chaff of millet, and not the straw, must evidently be intended here, for he says above that the straw—“culmus”—of millet is generally burnt.
[598] Muria dura.
[599] Georg. i. 84, et seq. Fée says that Virgil has good reason for his commendations, as it is a most excellent plan.
[600] Palladius, i. 19, says two feet.
[601] On account of the damp. Columella, however, recommends a mixture of sand, lime, and marc of olives for the floor; B. i. c. 6.
[602] In B. xv. c. 8.
[603] This is still done in the Valais, and has the great merit of preserving the corn from house and field-mice.
[604] “Ventilare.” On the contrary, the weevil penetrates deep, and does not keep near the surface.