[262] In B. xiii. c. 19. In speaking there, however, of this gum, the Acacia Nilotica of Linnæus, he makes no mention whatever of Arabia; for which reason Sillig concludes that this passage is corrupt.
[263] The Onopordum acanthium of Linnæus, the cotton-thistle, or woolly thistle.
[264] The Mimosa Nilotica of Linnæus; see B. xiii. c. 19. Fée seems inclined to identify the white thorn with the Cratægus oxyacantha of Linnæus, the white hawthorn, or May. In the present passage, however, it is doubtful whether the colours apply to the varieties of gum, or to the trees which produce them. Sillig considers the passage to be corrupt.
[265] The Prunus spinosa of Linnæus, Fée thinks, the sloe, or black thorn.
[266] Fée says that the difference in appearance is very considerable between them.
[267] The leaves containing little or no tannin.
[268] In India, the bark of the Acacia Arabica is still used for tanning leather.
[269] This juice, Fée says, obtained from the Prunus spinosa, is known at the present day in commerce by the name of Acacia nostras.
[270] Fée queries, without sufficient foundation, it would appear, whether he is here speaking of syphilitic affections.
[271] Fée suggests that this may be the Dipsacus fullonum of Linnæus, the fuller’s thistle.